Expat Community > Colombia

onthemove44
Joined 2014
Posts: 2

Duties and Customs in Colombia

10 years ago

Hello To All,
This is my very first post to the Expat Exchange and I am in dire need of some information. I am planning a move to Medellin in May of this year, or no later than June. I have been reading a lot about the country, culture, banking, visa requirements, etc. I have run into what seems to possibly be a major roadblock however. I have sold all my furniture, appliances (large) art and so forth, so it would be an easier move. My problem however is my wardrobe, (personal clothes and accessories) as I have approx. 10 fairly large boxes weighing right at 100 pounds each. Eighty five to ninety percent is clothing, and I do not want to part with any of it. The remaining ten to fifteen percent is household items, including a $2500.00 coffee machine and a $500.00 blender that I purchased last September, but never unpacked or used them as I knew it would be easier to wait until my move to Colombia to use them. I have been trying for almost a week now to find out how I will be taxed when the shipment arrives and goes through customs. These are all my personal items and nothing is for resale. The rest of the contents are things like sheets, towels, a set of dishware, kitchen utensils, silverware, etc. I have contacted a local international shipping company here on the west coast of the USA, and have been quoted a shipping by ocean freight cost of about $1500.00. My question to any of you who can help is, will the Customs in Colombia tax me on my used clothing, and if so, how do they arrive at any kind of dollar amount? I am coming on a retirement visa, and the shipment, if at all, will come after I have arrived. Please, anyone with knowledge respond.

Warmest Regards,
on themove44

SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

Living in Colombia Guide

Expats in Colombia discuss the pros and cons of living in Colombia. From the Colombian people to driving to taxes and more. As challenging as it can be, expats in Colombia clearly find that there is a lot to love about a country that is a surprising expat hot spot.

Colombia Forum
Join our Colombia forum to meet other expats and talk about living in Colombia.

Contribute
Help other expats and newcomers by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Colombia.

Best Places to Live in Colombia

If you're considering a move to Colombia, here are the 15 Best Places to Live in Colombia in 2023.

Healthcare in Colombia

Our guide to healthcare in Colombia covers public and private healthcare in Colombia, hospitals, vaccinations, prescription medications and more.

Cost of Living in Colombia

Expats offer insight into the cost of living in Colombia.

Moving to Colombia Guide

With its bustling cities, beautiful beaches and friendly Colombians, Colombia is an increasingly popular destination for expats of all ages. Expats in Colombia offer insightful tips for those moving to Colombia.

Real Estate in Colombia

Real estate listings in popular cities and towns in Colombia.

Pros & Cons of Living in Colombia

Take off your rose-colored glasses and learn what expats have to say about the biggest challenges and the greatest rewards of living in Colombia.

Retiring in Colombia

Advice for people retiring in Colombia.

10 Tips for Living in Colombia

If you've recently arrived in Colombia, here are 10 tips for digital nomads living in Colombia.

Additional Information:

Visit our Colombia Index for a Full List

SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

Contribute
Help others in Colombia by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Colombia.

Login

Or, Send Login Link

Expat Community > Colombia

Duties and Customs in Colombia

Login