La Derecha Diario How to shop on Amazon from Argentina without overpaying
The key steps to buying from Argentina without overpaying on Amazon: tariffs, taxes, and how to avoid them
Amazon USA is an unbeatable showcase for Argentinians seeking technology, clothing, or exclusive products at lower prices.
However, the listed price doesn't always reflect the final cost: taxes, duties, and hidden fees can increase the order total if you don't plan your purchase.
What should you consider before buying on Amazon?
From Argentina, you can buy under the door-to-door regime, with clear rules:
- Up to 3 units per item per year.
- Maximum of USD 3,000 per shipment.
- For personal use only, not for commercial purposes.
- It is mandatory to declare the entry on the Correo Argentino portal.
The shipping cost is calculated in official dollars, and the limits may change each year.
What taxes are paid when buying on Amazon?
AFIP Perceptions
A 30% perception is applied for Income Tax and Personal Assets. You can recover it if you pay taxes, but it affects the final price at the time of payment.
VAT and customs duties
VAT (21%) is calculated on the total cost of the product + shipping + insurance.
The duty varies depending on the product:
- Cell phones: 8% (will reach 0% in 2026).
- Clothing: 20%.
- Footwear: 20%.
- Fabrics: 18%.
Management fee
Correo Argentino charges between $2,000 and $5,000 for each international package.
How can you avoid surprises in costs?
Use Amazon Global and the Import Fees Deposit option
With Amazon Global, you can see the final price with taxes included before paying. Amazon handles customs procedures and refunds any excess if you were overcharged.
Look for products with shipping to Argentina, filter by "Amazon Global Eligible," and make sure the "Import Fees Deposit" fee appears before paying.
Compare and simulate before buying
Use online calculators, forums, or shopping groups to estimate the total cost in pesos. You can also check the product's tariff code in ARCA to know exactly which taxes apply.
Practical purchase example
- Product: USD 100
- Amazon Global shipping: USD 5
- Import Fees Deposit: USD 40
- Total: USD 145 (about $232,000 at the 2025 card dollar rate)
What happens with shipping and delivery?
Package tracking
Amazon gives you a tracking number. When the order arrives in Argentina, you must register the purchase on the Correo portal and complete the declaration.
Payment of fees and release
You pay the duties and the management fee. If everything is correct, Correo delivers it to your home or to a branch of your choice.
What if you want to return the product?
Amazon accepts international returns, but the costs are usually borne by the buyer. The refund of taxes and shipping is not always guaranteed.
Is it worth using lockers or couriers?
Courier services like DHL or FedEx speed up procedures, but they are more expensive. Lockers in the USA let you buy from stores that don't ship to Argentina, but they have extra fees and greater complexity.
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