What are Panama's main ports and how do I choose?
The main ports are Balboa on the Pacific coast and Manzanillo on the Atlantic coast. Either works for cargo consumed locally in Panama; for re-export to other Central American countries, shippers usually route via Manzanillo into the Colon Free Zone.
What is the Colon Free Zone, and why does it matter for Chinese exporters?
The Colon Free Zone is the largest free trade zone in the Western Hemisphere. Chinese goods can be bonded, stored, relabeled and re-exported to Central America, the Caribbean and parts of South America — it's a key transshipment hub for many Chinese exporters targeting the Central American market.
Is Panama's Manzanillo the same port as Mexico's Manzanillo?
No. Both countries have a port named Manzanillo — Panama's is on the Atlantic coast in Colon province, Mexico's is on the Pacific coast in Colima state. Always specify the country on booking and customs documents to avoid misrouting.
How long does ocean freight from China to Panama take?
FCL typically takes about 25-30 days, depending on the carrier's port rotation and schedule.
Can urgent cargo go by air?
Yes. Tocumen International Airport is a major Central American aviation hub — air freight takes about 3-5 days, suited to urgent restocking or high-value small items, over 20 days faster than sea freight.
What customs documents are required to export to Panama?
Basic documents include Commercial Invoice, Packing List and Bill of Lading. Cargo routed through the Colon Free Zone also needs zone entry/exit documentation — confirm specifics with your local customs broker in advance.
What are typical import duties in Panama?
General import duty is roughly 0-15% depending on HS code, plus 7% ITBMS (VAT-equivalent). Goods within the Colon Free Zone are typically duty-suspended until they leave the zone — final rates confirmed by your local customs broker.
Do I pay Panama duty when re-exporting via the Colon Free Zone to other Central American countries?
Goods bonded and stored within the Colon Free Zone without entering Panama's domestic market generally do not incur Panama import duty. Confirm the specific tax treatment with your free zone agent or local customs broker.
Should I choose FCL or LCL for Panama?
FCL suits shipments that fill a container, offering better cost efficiency; LCL suits smaller shipments, especially for local-consumption restocking. Cargo transshipping via the Colon Free Zone is mostly FCL.
What is Forwarder International's advantage on the Panama route?
We are familiar with Balboa, Manzanillo and Colon Free Zone operations, can help you decide the right clearance path for local consumption vs. Central American re-export, and offer FCL, LCL and air freight via Tocumen Airport.