Since Puerto Rico is a United States territory – meaning it belongs to the United States, but is not part of the United States – requirements for moving there may seem slightly confusing. And, I’ve discovered that it’s difficult to find factual information about how to move to Puerto Rico from the U.S.

So, after some extensive research, here’s what I’ve learned:

• Residents of Puerto Rico pay U.S. federal taxes, which include import/export taxes, social security taxes, federal payroll taxes, commodity taxes and Commonwealth of Puerto Rico income taxes.
• Used household goods and personal effects can be imported duty-free as long as you have owned them for one year and you do not intend to sell the items or give them to another person.
• There are some items that are subject to a local excise tax – which is currently 6.6% and is calculated from the commercial invoice value. These items are:
   - Sporting goods
   - Tools
   - Musical instruments
   - Cameras and camera equipment
   - Toys
   - Electronic items
   - Telecommunications equipment
   - All new items
• Jewelry should not be included in your shipment to Puerto Rico.
• When moving the Puerto Rico from the U.S., the following documentation is required and must be presented by the owner of the goods when clearing the items at the tax office in San Juan:
   - Power of Attorney
   - Two pieces of identification
   - Bill of Lading
   - Inventory list in English and signed by owner
   - Freight Bill signed by owner
• Your inventory list must include dollar values of the items in the shipment. If you underestimate, fines can be assessed.
• Your items must be cleared at the tax office before the moving company can deliver your shipment.
• The local currency is the U.S. dollar.
• The borders are open between the U.S. mainland and Puerto Rico – so a passport is not required.

ABF U-Pack specializes in moving to Puerto Rico from the U.S. mainland. If you have questions about the moving process, or need to know the cost to move to Puerto Rico with ABF U-Pack, call us at 800-413-4799 or get a free quote online.