Expat Community > Ecuador

USAMama
Joined 2016
Posts: 1

Paperwork to receive prescription shipped by DHL?

8 years ago

Hello kind people, :-)

I'm not an expat--I'm looking for some knowledgeable advice on shipping to Ecuador. Apologies if this isn't an appropriate use of the forum.

I'm trying to ship some prescription medications from the US to my daughter, who is studying abroad in Quito. The very helpful folks at DHL told me that on the receiving end she may need to provide a "sanitary certificate", which can be obtained from the local government (e.g. city hall).

I did a little googling around, and it looks like the "sanitary certificate" is something that seems to be more aimed at commercial importers. It also looks like it costs $650--at which point it's going to be cheaper for me to fly down there and hand carry the package. Or, at least to see if she can get the prescription filled there.

Can anyone advise if the sanitary certificate is truly necessary? Or, is there some less expensive version of this paperwork which is suitable for personal use? I was planning on putting in the prescription along with the medications--would that be sufficient documentation?

Finally, I have the option of either shipping to one of the DHL offices, or having the package delivered to my daughter's host mom's office. DHL said either option would be fine--do any of you have any advice on which of these would be preferable?

Thanks very, very much in advance for any suggestions and guidance.

AGS Worldwide Movers

AGS Worldwide Movers can move you to and from anywhere in the world.
Get Quote

AGS Worldwide Movers

AGS Worldwide Movers can move you to and from anywhere in the world.
Get Quote

Living in Ecuador Guide

Expats in Ecuador share some of the pros and cons of living in Ecuador. Topics covered include where to live, the bureaucracy, the people and more.

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

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

Best Places to Live in Ecuador

If you're dreaming about living in Ecuador, here are the 15 Best Places to Live in Ecuador in 2023.

Healthcare in Ecuador

Expats in Ecuador share their experiences with healthcare and overseas medical insurance in Ecuador.

Cost of Living in Ecuador

Expats offer insight into the cost of living in Ecuador.

Moving to Ecuador Guide

Expats in Ecuador offer advice to newcomers and people considering a move to Ecuador about clothing, sunscreen, renting before buying, gringo pricing, Ecuadorians politeness and much more.