BFI El Salvador is a trusted Customs Broker, Freight Forwarder, and Relocation Partner with over 15 years of experience supporting diplomatic missions, international organizations, corporations, and expatriate assignments in El Salvador.
We specialize in international moving, corporate relocations, and tailored logistics solutions designed to meet the specific needs of each mission, family, and institution.
Our diplomatic relocation services include:
Coordination of diplomatic household goods shipments
Customs clearance management in compliance with local regulations
Professional export packing and custom crating for high-value and delicate items
International air and sea freight coordination
Door to door delivery, unpacking, installation, and debris removal
Detailed inventory control and condition reporting
Ongoing post move support
BFI El Salvador is a proud member of:
IAM (International Association of Movers (Trusted Moving Company)
WCA (World Cargo Alliance)
MoverPOE Network
These global affiliations ensure reliable international coordination, compliance standards, and service continuity worldwide.
Our team understands the importance of discretion, regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and clear communication when managing diplomatic shipments and staff relocations.
We would be honored to support your mission’s relocation and logistics requirements and to be considered as a trusted local partner in El Salvador.
For further information or to schedule an introductory meeting, please contact:
Moisés Carballo Sales & Relocation Manager BFI El Salvador +503 7398 3568 mcarballo@bfielsalvador.com www.bfielsalvador.com
We are pleased to share important updates regarding El Salvador’s continued customs modernization and recent regulatory developments that further strengthen our logistics environment.
1️⃣ Technology & Operational Efficiency
Following the participation of the General Director of Customs at the World Customs Organization (WCO) Technology Conference in Abu Dhabi, El Salvador is moving forward with the implementation of advanced non intrusive scanning systems. These solutions will allow the inspection of more than 100 vehicles per hour, significantly reducing manual inspections, strengthening risk management, improving illicit detection, and accelerating clearance processes.
El Salvador continues to register an average direct export clearance time of approximately three days one of the most competitive timeframes in Latin America.
2️⃣ Administrative Simplification – Elimination of Requirements (DGA 010-2026)
As part of the national strategy for administrative simplification and competitiveness, the General Directorate of Customs has officially informed that requirements applicable to the importation of lighting products (luminaires) have been eliminated.
This means that no technical opinions or regulatory documentation will be required for their importation, streamlining procedures and reducing processing times.
3️⃣ Energy Efficiency Regulations – Updated Verification Process (DGA 011-2026)
Customs, in coordination with the Directorate of Energy, Hydrocarbons and Mines (DGEHM), will now digitally verify technical opinions for:
Refrigeration equipment (domestic and commercial)
Air conditioning units
AC electric motors
Verification will be conducted through system integration between DGEHM’s online platform and SIDUNEA WORLD (“Paperless Customs”) or SIDUNEA ++, depending on the transmission system used.
Importers must attach the corresponding technical ruling or exemption to the customs declaration under the applicable RTS and RTCA energy efficiency regulations.
Important clarifications include:
Technical rulings issued to a manufacturer may be certified and used by importers of that brand.
Rulings issued to an importer are not transferable to another importer.
Personal-use shipments (household goods, donations, parcels) are exempt.
For products classified under HS headings 84.15, 84.18 and 85.01, compliance remains mandatory.
The new bulletin replaces previous DGA 040-2025 guidelines.
These measures reflect a balanced strategy: ✔ Greater facilitation for compliant trade ✔ Stronger digital controls ✔ Regulatory clarity ✔ Increased operational predictability
El Salvador continues to consolidate its role as a strategic logistics hub in Central America, combining efficiency, modernization, and regulatory transparency.
We remain at your disposal for any clarification or operational coordination required.
Best regards, Jorge Rosa / jrosa@bfielsalvador.com BFI El Salvador
I would like to share important guidance regarding imports into El Salvador, in line with current criteria applied by the Dirección General de Aduanas (DGA). According to the provisions applied under DACG-016-2025, the DGA allows import operations to be structured using up to two import declarations, with a maximum declared value of up to USD 100,000 per category, provided that all customs requirements, valuation rules, and supporting documentation are properly met for salvadoreans or naturalized citizens.
This value limit applies independently to each of the following categories: • Household goods up to USD 100,000 • Vehicles (of all types) up to USD 100,000 • Work tools and professional equipment up to USD 100,000
Additional operational experience: Based on our direct experience applying this framework in real operations, we have successfully managed imports under each of these categories, always coordinating transparently with customs authorities and in full compliance with DGA declaration, valuation, and control procedures. As active members of IAM, we believe in sharing clear, experience based information that supports our partners and helps protect their operation. In my role, I focus on explaining these processes in a practical and straight forward manner, ensuring agents understand not only what is permitted, but how to structure the operation correctly. If you have a specific case or would like to review how this framework may apply to an upcoming shipment to El Salvador, I will be glad to assist you directly.
I am Jorge Rosa, Key Account & Relocation Manager at BFI El Salvador, with over 25 years of experience in international logistics and more than 15 years growing with this company.
Throughout my career, I have worked in imports and exports, international relocations, and project cargo, managing complex operations and specialized movements.
My focus is on delivering reliable, trusted efficient, and transparent solutions, with strong attention to detail and fast response times.
I believe in teamwork and building long term relationships with clients and global partners, ensuring every operation is handled with professionalism and commitment.
A New Chapter in El Salvador – EEUU Trade Relations
🇸🇻🤝🇺🇸 El Salvador and the United States have officially signed a Reciprocal Trade Agreement that eliminates the 10% tariff on Salvadoran exports to the EEUU market. This milestone further strengthens the commercial relationship between both countries and positions El Salvador as a more competitive and attractive sourcing and manufacturing hub for international trade. Why this mattersFrom a logistics and trade perspective, this agreement is expected to:Improve cost efficiency for exportersEncourage new trade flows and foreign investmentIncrease demand for reliable freight, relocation, and project cargo solutionsStrengthen long term EEUU – Central America trade lanesInternational media have highlighted this agreement as a key step in reinforcing bilateral trade and positioning El Salvador as one of the first countries in the region to secure a reciprocal tariff elimination with the United States. How BFI El Salvador can supportAt BFI El Salvador, we are closely monitoring these developments and preparing to support our partners with tailored logistics solutions across:Export and import freightInternational relocationsProject cargo and special movementsOur focus remains on efficiency, compliance, and fast response times, ensuring smooth operations under this new trade framework.If you have current or upcoming business involving El Salvador–EEUU trade lanes, we would be glad to explore opportunities together.
Kind regards,
Jorge Rosa Key Account & Relocation Manager BFI El Salvador Member of IAMovers | WCA | WCA Relocations | Globalia | MoversPOE
The United States and El Salvador signed the Reciprocal Trade Agreement on January 29, 2026, which sets the framework for eliminating the 10% tariff on certain Salvadoran exports under CAFTA-DR. The agreement will enter into force once both countries complete their domestic legal procedures and notify each other in writing, a date that is expected to be announced soon by the governments.
The Port of La Unión has been reactivated as a strategic hub for RO/RO cargo in El Salvador, specializing in the handling of vehicles and rolling equipment. Its modern infrastructure allows efficient reception of RO/RO vessels, helping to decongest Acajutla Port and positioning La Unión as a key alternative for automotive and project-related imports in the region.
As El Salvador continues to expand its infrastructure, the country is receiving large scale construction equipment, modular structures, and specialized machinery for major public and private projects. BFI specializes in handling project cargo and oversized shipments, providing door to door solutions for complex and high value operations.
I believe relocation should feel clear, personal, and well explained. With extensive experience in origin and destination services in El Salvador, I stay closely involved in every operation, supporting international agents with practical solutions, clear communication, and reliable on the ground coordination from start to finish.
Relocation built on experience, clarity and trust
About BFI – MOVING . FREIGHT . CUSTOMS
At BFI El Salvador, we specialize in origin and destination services, international household goods relocations, freight coordination, customs clearance, and final delivery. Our work is hands-on, detail-driven, and focused on providing clear solutions that protect both our agents’ reputation and our clients’ peace of mind.
We work closely with international agents, corporate clients, and embassies, adapting every operation to cultural, regulatory, and logistical requirements. For us, relocation is not a standardized processit is a personalized service that requires experience, empathy, and strong local knowledge. BFI El Salvador is officially listed on the Invest in El Salvador portal, a government-backed platform that serves as a window for investors and international companies looking to do business in a country experiencing strong growth and continuous development.
This recognition reflects our commitment to transparency, compliance, and professional standards, positioning us as a reliable partner for companies and families relocating to and from El Salvador.
Nneo Nejapa marks a new chapter in El Salvador’s logistics growth.
With an initial capacity of 100,000 m² and plans to double its size, it strengthens the country’s position as a key regional logistics hub. Designed under international standards, the park integrates smart infrastructure, high resistance facilities, and sustainable practices. Its strategic location enhances connectivity to ports, borders, and the international airport, supporting high impact investment and trade.
Vehicle Importation to El Salvador
We provide vehicle import services from any part of the world to El Salvador, handling the entire process in compliance with current Salvadoran regulations regarding permitted vehicle model years.
In addition, Salvadoran citizens returning to the country may qualify for tax exemptions, depending on their migratory status and specific government requirements.
Air Services Agreement El Salvador/ Ecuador
Has been officially ratified. The agreement, signed on November 13, 2025, in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, aims to ensure the highest level of safety and security in international air services, strengthening bilateral cooperation and connectivity between both countries.
With more than 16 years of experience in the Salvadoran market, BFI El Salvador continues to position itself as a trusted and capable partner for international relocation and moving services. As global mobility grows and the need for reliable partners increases, our team remains fully committed to supporting shipments arriving in or departing from El Salvador, especially those that may be pending, delayed, or currently in transit.
As proud members of IAM – International Association of Movers, as well as WCA and Globalia, and holding BASC certification, we operate under the highest standards of security, compliance, and professional service. These affiliations strengthen our global connections and allow us to support partners and clients with confidence and consistency.
Our operational capability is one of our strongest assets. BFI El Salvador manages shipments with:
In house customs coordination, allowing for faster clearance and immediate attention to pending or time sensitive shipments.
Specialized moving and relocation services for embassies, diplomats, expats, corporations, returning Salvadorans, and families relocating to or from El Salvador.
Trained crews and special equipment, ensuring safe handling, efficient last mile delivery, and tailored on-site solutions.
Full visibility and proactive communication, keeping partners informed every step of the way.
Every relocation is handled with the attention and professionalism required in the international moving industry. Whether reviewing a pending file, coordinating an in transit shipment, or supporting a partner with local delivery services, our team is prepared to step in quickly and provide the reliable assistance expected from a certified global partner.
The team featured in this article represents just one of our operational crews, demonstrating the organization, discipline, and commitment that define our daily work. Their preparation and coordination reflect the values that have guided BFI El Salvador for more than a decade and a half.
As the landscape of international relocations evolves, BFI El Salvador remains focused on delivering dependable service, strengthening global partnerships, and providing safe, efficient solutions for every shipment entrusted to us.
BFI El Salvador – Customs • Freight • Moving Your trusted partner for relocations to and from El Salvador.
El Salvador: A Strategic Investment Destination Transforming Opportunities Across the Americas
By: Jorge Rosa, Key Account Manager, BFI El Salvador
El Salvador is undergoing a remarkable economic, social, and institutional transformation that has positioned the country as one of the most attractive investment destinations in Latin America. With a renewed business climate, strong security indicators, and a forward-looking approach to innovation, the nation stands at a pivotal moment inviting global partners, investors, and companies to explore the advantages of establishing operations in its territory.
At BFI El Salvador, we continue to work hand in hand with international partners and investors seeking secure, efficient, and scalable solutions. As part of our mission, we also support business leaders in understanding why El Salvador has become a strategic hub for regional and global expansion.
1. A Stable and Reliable Economic Environment
One of the pillars of El Salvador’s attractiveness is its monetary system. The adoption of the US Dollar as legal tender provides long term stability, minimizes currency risk, and allows investors to operate in a predictable financial environment. This framework facilitates international transactions, financial planning, and corporate operations with greater confidence and efficiency.
In addition, the government has implemented reforms and incentives that strengthen the country’s competitiveness and simplify investment processes. Today, El Salvador offers one of the most business-friendly environments in the region, with a clear commitment to transparency, modernization, and legal security.
2. A Strategic Location with Direct Access to Key Global Markets
Located in the heart of the Americas, El Salvador provides a geographical advantage that few countries in the region can match. Its connectivity through modern roads, an expanding international airport, and highly active seaports allows companies to reach North, Central, and South America quickly and cost-effectively.
This logistics positioning makes the country an ideal hub for:
regional distribution
nearshoring and reshoring strategies
supply chain optimization
multimodal cargo operations
El Salvador’s infrastructure continues to grow, reinforcing its role as a central point for international commerce.
3. A Young, Productive, and Skilled Workforce
El Salvador possesses a young, dynamic labor force that is internationally recognized for its strong work ethic, productivity, and adaptability. With more than half of its population under 40 years old, the country offers a long-term human capital advantage for industries such as logistics, manufacturing, services, technology, and specialized operations.
This workforce continues to gain access to technical programs, engineering careers, English language training, and advanced vocational programs strengthening the country’s capacity to support high-performance industries.
4. Modern Infrastructure That Supports Business Growth
El Salvador ranks among the top countries in Central America for road connectivity and infrastructure development. Major projects including airport expansion, the modernization of port terminals, and new logistics corridors are enabling greater agility for international trade.
For companies evaluating location competitiveness, El Salvador offers:
short transit times
efficient cargo handling
multimodal logistics capabilities
a growing ecosystem of free trade zones and industrial parks
These components create a strong foundation for operational efficiency and supply chain success.
5. One of the Safest Countries in Latin America
El Salvador’s historic improvement in public security has been widely recognized internationally. With crime indicators at historic lows, the country now stands as one of the safest in Latin America an attribute that directly increases investor confidence, tourism demand, and long-term economic development.
This new environment strengthens business continuity, workforce stability, and project feasibility, making the country a reliable destination for foreign companies.
6. A Wide Array of Investment Incentives
Investors in El Salvador benefit from a robust and competitive incentives framework that includes:
income tax exemptions
municipal tax exemptions
customs duty exemptions on machinery, equipment, and raw materials
incentives for technology, renewable energy, manufacturing, logistics, agribusiness, and more
access to legal stability contracts
These benefits significantly reduce startup and operating costs, making investment scenarios more favorable and scalable.
7. Strategic Advisory and Expert Support from BFI El Salvador
At BFI El Salvador, we understand that entering a new market requires clarity, strategy, and reliable local support. For this reason, our team provides specialized guidance in:
✔ Market Insights & Industry Intelligence
We help investors evaluate opportunities across high-growth sectors, understand cost structures, and analyze the competitive landscape.
✔ Guidance on Government Institutions Supporting Investment
We collaborate closely with institutions that promote foreign investment, facilitate permits, offer incentives, and accompany international businesses throughout the establishment process.
✔ Relocation & Repatriation Support for Investors
We provide assistance for investors who wish to relocate or establish residence in El Salvador, including:
investor visas and residency programs
relocation logistics
exemptions for household goods and vehicles
local integration and cultural orientation
repatriation programs for Salvadorans abroad who wish to reinvest in the country
This personalized support ensures that executives, entrepreneurs, and families enjoy a smooth and efficient transition into the Salvadoran ecosystem.
8. A Transforming Country Ready for Global Partnerships
El Salvador is not only growing it is transforming. The country is shaping a new identity centered on economic strength, security, infrastructure development, and global competitiveness. This transformation is creating exceptional opportunities for organizations seeking expansion, strategic positioning, or a new regional base.
At BFI El Salvador, we stand ready to support our partners and investors in exploring these opportunities and developing projects that contribute to sustainable growth.
Contact Information
For more details, personalized advisory, or to explore opportunities in El Salvador, feel free to reach out:
Jorge Rosa Key Account Manager – BFI El Salvador Phone: +503 7398 5117 Email: jrosa@bfielsalvador.com
El Salvador is entering a transformative phase of growth. With unprecedented momentum in construction, foreign investment, and national development, the need for a reliable, experienced, and strategic logistics partner has never been greater.
At BFI El Salvador, we are proud to support this new era by delivering world class solutions in relocation, project logistics, and import management for clients with high operational standards.
A Market Defined by Expansion
El Salvador’s landscape is rapidly evolving:
New residential towers and luxury communities
Large-scale coastal and tourism projects
Urban development zones and mixed use complexes
A surge in foreign residents and returning Salvadorans
This wave of development demands precise coordination, compliance, and support from international mobility to heavy cargo, FF&E, and full import logistics.
A Government Backing Growth and Mobility
Under President Nayib Bukele, El Salvador is offering streamlined processes and incentives that are accelerating:
Residency and naturalization for foreign nationals
Repatriation for Salvadorans returning from abroad
Corporate expansion and foreign investment
Importation of materials, equipment, and personal effects
Your clients entering the country today experience a smoother, more efficient process and we ensure it stays that way.
A Country Reinvented Through Safety
El Salvador is now recognized as one of the safest countries in the Western Hemisphere. This historic transformation has elevated:
Investor confidence
Corporate mobility
Tourism and hospitality development
Long-term residential demand
Security is no longer a barrier it is now a competitive advantage.
Why Global Partners Choose BFI El Salvador
BFI is the benchmark for professional relocation and project logistics in the region. Our expertise includes:
International and corporate relocations
Full import coordination and customs management
FF&E and turnkey logistics for construction & hospitality
High-value project cargo and specialized transportation
End-to-end support for developers, builders, expats, and investors
We operate with precision, transparency, and a commitment to excellence in every move, delivery, and project.
Your clients deserve a partner with global experience and local mastery.
Let’s Build Success Together
Whether your clients are entering El Salvador for development, construction, investment, or residential relocation, BFI El Salvador is fully prepared to support their journey from day one.
I would be pleased to coordinate a call to discuss how we can assist with your upcoming projects.
Moises Carballo Sales & Relocation Manager BFI El Salvador Email: mcarballo@bfielsalvador.com Phone: +503 7398 3568
We are pleased to share an important development that will open new commercial opportunities for exporters in El Salvador and strengthen our collaboration across the region.
2. Key Benefits for Salvadoran Exports to the U.S.
The United States will eliminate reciprocal tariffs on selected Salvadoran products, particularly those not sufficiently produced in the U.S.The White House+1
Textiles and apparel under CAFTA-DR will also benefit from strengthened preferential access. The White House+1
Exporters can expect lower landed costs, increased price competitiveness, and a faster entry into the U.S. market.
3. Reduced Non-Tariff Barriers
El Salvador will modernize its import procedures for U.S. goods, while both countries commit to:
These improvements create a broader environment of predictability and transparency, which benefits all regional trade partners.
4. What This Means for Our Agent Network
This framework represents a strategic opportunity:
Enhanced competitiveness for Salvadoran exporters seeking entry into the U.S.
New product categories that may qualify for preferential treatment.
Greater certainty for logistics, compliance, and transit requirements.
Stronger positioning for all agents supporting cross-border shipments.
As a network, this allows us to provide more value, better guidance, and a clear pathway for clients looking to expand into the U.S. market.
5. Let’s Prepare Your Customers
We invite our partners to proactively review their customers’ product lines and identify items that might benefit from:
Reduced or eliminated tariffs
Updated compliance or certification pathways
Optimised logistics planning under the new framework
Call to Action (CTA)
Contact us to schedule a 15-minute consultation to evaluate your clients’ products and determine how these upcoming changes can improve their competitiveness in the U.S. market. Together, we can help companies seize new opportunities under this enhanced trade landscape.
our Trusted Partner for International Relocation and Customs Exemptions
El Salvador has introduced a new Special Law for the Diaspora and People in Human Mobility, a comprehensive framework that facilitates the return of Salvadorans and naturalized citizens by granting full import tax exemptions on household goods, vehicles, and work-related equipment.
This law positions El Salvador among the most diaspora-friendly countries in Central America, offering significant incentives for those who wish to return, invest, or reestablish their lives and businesses in the country.
At BFI El Salvador – Moving El Salvador, we are ready to assist agents, consulates, and families worldwide in managing every aspect of this process — from customs documentation and inspection coordination to door-to-door delivery.
The term menaje de casa refers to all domestic items used to furnish and equip a household, including:
Furniture, appliances, and kitchenware
Clothing, electronics, personal items, and décor
Books, children’s items, and family belongings
These goods can be new or used, provided they are for domestic use only and not intended for resale.
BFI El Salvador handles the customs declaration, import coordination, packaging inspection, and final delivery, ensuring compliance with Salvadoran Customs Authority (DGA) guidelines.
The law allows returning Salvadorans to import up to two personal vehicles per family, fully exempt from import duties, as long as the vehicles are for private use and in good condition.
Key requirements:
The vehicle must be registered under the owner’s name.
Proof of ownership (title and registration) must be provided.
The vehicle must be retained for at least two years before transfer or sale.
Eligible vehicles can arrive via Port of Acajutla or through authorized land border entries. BFI El Salvador coordinates all steps — customs clearance, inland transport, DGA inspection, and delivery — under compliance with the General Directorate of Migration and Foreign Affairs.
⚙️ 3. Tools, Professional Equipment, and Work Implements
The new legislation also supports returning professionals and entrepreneurs by providing tax-free entry for tools, instruments, machinery, and work equipment necessary to restart a business or trade in El Salvador.
The exemption applies to both new and used items, up to a combined declared value of USD 100,000 per family group.
Examples include:
Mechanics’ tools, carpentry and construction equipment
IT, design, and professional office setups
Agricultural, industrial, or artisan machinery
Technical or educational materials for small enterprises
BFI ensures the correct classification, valuation, and documentation under the new diaspora benefits program, so your clients or partners receive full exemption without delay.
🧾 Eligibility and Requirements
To qualify for these benefits, applicants must:
Be Salvadoran by birth or by naturalization.
Have resided abroad and now wish to return permanently or temporarily.
Submit a sworn declaration to the General Directorate of Migration and Foreign Affairs (DGME) indicating their return and new residence in El Salvador.
Not have any active migration restrictions or pending legal issues.
These measures reflect the Salvadoran government’s effort to strengthen ties with the diaspora and facilitate reintegration into the national economy.
🌎 BFI El Salvador — Your Partner in Central America
We provide full support for returning families, expatriates, diplomats, and corporate relocations, ensuring compliance with the new Salvadoran Mobility Law and offering end-to-end visibility throughout the process.
🤝 Work with Us
Whether you represent an overseas moving company, relocation agency, embassy, or private client, BFI El Salvador can assist you with every step of your client’s return — ensuring documentation accuracy, timely customs release, and secure delivery.
Our team will guide you through:
Law interpretation and eligibility verification
Documentation and customs pre-approval
Shipment coordination and DGA inspection assistance
On-site delivery at the client’s new home or facility
