Do you buy abroad and want to receive your packages in Ecuador in the most economical way? Then you need to know the 4x4 rule (Category B) and the other categories of the courier regime. With MDE you buy in Europe, the US or China and we prepare your shipments to fit the 4x4. Updated in July 2026.
What is the 4x4 rule?
The Category B, known as 4x4, allows natural persons to import packages for personal use by courier from any country with two limits:
- 4 kg maximum weight per shipment.
- USD 400 maximum value (FOB) per shipment.
- Up to USD 1,600 per year, spread over several shipments.
How much do you pay? (important, it changed in 2025)
Until 2025 the 4x4 was practically tax-free, but from June 16, 2025 each package pays a fixed tariff of USD 20 plus 0.5% FODINFA. The good news: you still don't pay VAT or ICE, so it continues to be much cheaper and more agile than a formal import.
The categories of courier imports in Ecuador
Knowing which category your package fits into avoids delays and unexpected costs:
- Category A (documents): papers with no commercial value. You do not pay taxes.
- Category B (4x4): personal use, up to 4 kg and USD 400. Fixed tariff of USD 20 + 0.5% FODINFA, without VAT or ICE.
- Category C: up to 100 kg and USD 5,000. For merchandise that exceeds 4x4; pay tariffs and taxes depending on the product.
- Category D: textiles and footwear, up to 20 kg and USD 2,000, with specific regulation (it is usually advisable to consolidate).
Category G: Ecuadorian migrants without tariff
If you are Ecuadorian migrant, you have an extra benefit. Category G allows registered migrants to receive their 4x4 shipments without paying the USD 20 fee, with preferential conditions. To activate it you need the migrant identity card, which is processed at the Virtual Consulate of Ecuador (consuladovirtual.gob.ec), and present it to your courier. It is the perfect way to buy in Europe and receive at your family's home without that cost.
How to buy and receive in Ecuador with the 4x4
- Register for free and get your address in Europe, the US and China.
- Buy using that address as the delivery address.
- We weigh and We prepare your packages so that each one fits in the 4x4 (4 kg / USD 400).
- Receive it in Ecuador by courier; we manage the documentation.
Tips for importing without surprises
- Declare the category and the real value well with the purchase invoice.
- Have your ID or RUC on hand (and the migrant ID if you apply to Category G).
- Consolidate and repackage to keep each shipment within 4 kg and USD 400.
- Check the restrictions: medicines require permits and textiles and footwear have more rules strict.
The same service works in all of Latin America. Also consult the conditions of shipments to Ecuador.
Frequently asked questions
What is the 4x4 rule (Category B) in Ecuador?
It is a simplified customs regime (Category B) that allows natural persons to import packages for personal use by courier with two limits: up to 4 kg and USD 400 FOB value per shipment. Hence the name 4x4. You can import up to USD 1,600 per year.
Is the 4x4 still tax-free in 2026?
Not at all. From June 16, 2025 each 4x4 package pays a flat fee of USD 20 plus 0.5% FODINFA. Of course, it is still exempt from VAT and ICE, so it continues to be much cheaper than a formal import.
What categories of courier imports are there in Ecuador?
A (documents, without taxes); B/4x4 (personal use, up to 4 kg and USD 400); C (up to 100 kg and USD 5,000, pay duties and taxes); D (textiles and footwear, up to 20 kg and USD 2,000, with specific regulation); and G for registered Ecuadorian migrants.
Do Ecuadorian migrants pay the USD 20 tariff?
No. Registered Ecuadorian migrants can access Category G, which exempts the USD 20 tariff on 4x4 shipments and offers preferential conditions. It is activated with the migrant identity card, which is processed at the Virtual Consulate of Ecuador and presented to the courier.
How do I take advantage of 4x4 with MDE?
We give you an address in Europe, the US and China to shop locally. We weigh and prepare your packages so that each shipment remains within the 4 kg and USD 400 of the 4x4. Quote before buying.
Start today
Register for MDE and make the most of 4x4. 14 days money back guarantee. Doubts? Contact us.
