Moving to Panama from US
Are you making the leap to Panama from the USA? SDC International Shipping specializes in moving to Panama and other Central American countries, handling the transportation of your household goods, personal effects, and even your vehicles to any destination you require.
In the midst of your research, planning, and anticipation for this life-changing journey, you can set aside concerns about the logistics of your move. Entrust the task to international professionals who will ensure a smooth transition for you. If you are in need of a reliable company to transport your belongings, SDC International Shipping is here to make your overseas relocation a seamless success.
Shipping Household Goods to Panama
When shipping household goods to Panama, there are important considerations to keep in mind depending on your citizenship status:
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Returning Panamanian Citizens: Panamanian citizens returning after living abroad for an extended period can import used household goods, furniture, and personal effects tax-free, provided the items arrive within a reasonable timeframe after their return. New items do not qualify for this exemption, ensuring the focus remains on personal belongings.
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New Household Items: New household goods shipped to Panama incur moderate customs duties based on their total value, including shipping costs, along with a modest sales tax. The exact cost depends on the item type, requiring careful documentation to avoid delays.
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Non-Panamanian Citizens: Non-citizens holding a valid residence visa can import used household goods tax-free for personal use, typically within the first year of establishing residency, without a strict value limit. Without a visa, shipments face moderate duties and taxes based on their value, making visa status a key factor for cost savings. Consulting with a shipping expert is advised to navigate Panama’s customs regulations smoothly.
Preparing for shipment can be a complex task. By engaging SDC International Shipping, a specialist in household moving, you can rest assured knowing that every aspect of your move to Panama will be handled with care. From creating a detailed inventory with item values to providing wooden packing crates for restricted items, we are dedicated to simplifying the process for you. If you are relocating to Panama from the USA as a Panama Pensionado visa holder, we can assist you in navigating the various tax rates and regulations seamlessly.
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Shipping Cars and Other Vehicles to Panama
Unless you fall under specific categories such as being an accredited diplomat, a member of an international organization, or a US contractor, importing a vehicle into Panama will typically incur import taxes.
Shipping Methods: Vehicles can be shipped via Roll-on/Roll-off (RORO), a cost-effective option for operable cars, or container shipping, which offers added security for high-value or inoperable vehicles and allows limited personal goods. Shared containers split costs among multiple clients, while exclusive containers provide dedicated space, ideal for larger shipments. Consulting with a shipping expert ensures compliance with Panama’s customs rules, including age restrictions favoring newer vehicles.
As an experienced car shipping service, we handle the paperwork intricacies on your behalf. We assist in submitting all required documents to the relevant authorities in Panama before shipping your vehicle. These documents typically include:
- Passport
- Pollution certificate
- Commercial certificate
- Consular document
- Proof of tax payment
- Original Bill of Lading
Under a Pensionado Visa, you may be exempt from car import taxes. However, regulations vary based on the type of vehicle being imported. We recommend consulting with our Panama logistics expert to gain clarity on applicable fees and regulations tailored to your specific situation.
Piano and Artwork Shipping to Panama
When it comes to moving delicate items like pianos and artwork, specialized care is essential. At SDC International Shipping, we understand the unique requirements involved in transporting such valuables. We provide dedicated training for our staff, customized packing solutions, and meticulous handling throughout transit.
To ensure the safety of your precious possessions, we utilize special equipment, climate-controlled containers, and warehouses. Fine art and antiques are meticulously packed with generous padding and secured in sturdy wooden crates to safeguard them during the journey.
Our team of overseas piano movers and artwork shippers consists of licensed and insured professionals with expertise in handling valuable items. You can trust us to transport your pianos and artwork with the utmost care and attention to detail, ensuring they arrive at their destination securely and in pristine condition.
Choosing Between Air Freight and Ocean Freight for Your Move to Panama
When relocating to Panama, you have the option of transporting your household items via either air or ocean freight. Sea freight stands out as the most cost-effective method for moving to Panama. For larger households, our Full Container Load (FCL) service provides a comprehensive solution, while Less than Container Load (LCL) is ideal for smaller shipments.
For urgent moves where traditional ocean freight’s moderate transit period proves too slow, air freight provides a swift and reliable alternative. With frequent departures to Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport, this option ensures rapid delivery for time-sensitive shipments, though it comes at a more expensive rate, best suited for smaller or high-value items. Ocean freight remains cost-effective for larger household goods, but air freight’s speed is unmatched for pressing needs. Consulting with a shipping provider helps balance speed, cost, and customs requirements for a seamless relocation to Panama.
Key ocean ports in Panama include:
- Balboa
- Colon
- Panama City
- Manzanillo
- Cristobal
For air cargo, the primary airport is:
- Panama City (PTY)
Whether you opt for the cost-effective sea freight or the expedited air freight option, SDC International Shipping is equipped to handle your relocation to Panama efficiently and securely.
Moving To Panama from the USA: More Services from SDC
When embarking on a move to Panama from the USA, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free relocation is paramount. In addition to the comprehensive services already outlined, we provide a range of additional long-distance moving solutions to transport your household goods securely and affordably.
At SDC International Shipping, we are dedicated to offering a seamless moving experience, tailored to meet your specific needs. Our goal is to make your transition to Panama as stress-free as possible, providing you with reliable and efficient services every step of the way.
We take pride in providing tailored shipping solutions to individuals, families, and retirees embarking on a move to Panama from any location in the USA. With our wealth of skills, experience, and expertise, we stand as your most reliable partner throughout the relocation process.
Count on us to be your trusted ally, ensuring a seamless and stress-free transition to your new home in Panama. Our commitment is to deliver exceptional service that meets your unique needs and exceeds your expectations every step of the way.
Popular Destinations for Moving to Panama from the USA
For expats moving to Panama from the USA, Panama City emerges as the top choice. While we offer door-to-door service to any city in Panama, the following locations tend to have higher concentrations of American expats:
- Panama City
- San Miguelito
- Las Cumbres
- La Chorrera
- Tocumen
- Pacota
These areas are popular among Americans for their diverse amenities, expat communities, and quality of life. Whether you are drawn to the bustling city life of Panama City or the more tranquil surroundings of other regions, SDC International Shipping can assist you in making a smooth transition to your preferred destination in Panama.
Why Choose SDC International Shipping for Your Move to Panama
At SDC International Shipping, trust is at the core of our service philosophy. We believe that trust is earned through transparency, reliability, and exceptional service.
Here’s what Lily Z., one of our valued customers, had to say about her experience with us:
“The SDC team is great. They packed my things so fast and when watching them doing the job, I can’t help but praise their professionalism. They also included insurance in case my things got damaged on the way over. Fortunately, I got my shipment and when I started unpacking, nothing was broken. Thank you, SDC, for your great service!”
Lily’s testimonial reflects our commitment to providing efficient, professional, and secure moving services. From expert packing to reliable transportation and insurance coverage, we prioritize the safety and integrity of your belongings throughout the relocation process. Choose SDC International Shipping for a hassle-free and trustworthy move to Panama, backed by a team dedicated to exceeding your expectations. Contact us today to get started!