International shipping to Argentina: comparing FedEx, DHL, and UPS based on real cases

Argentina is a country with challenging conditions for international shipping: a complex customs system, tax requirements, and unpredictable delays. In such conditions, the key factor is not the brand, but the ability of the service to handle the process from start to finish.

We analyzed real user experiences to show how DHL, FedEx and UPS handle deliveries to Argentina in practice — without embellishment or theory.

Customs Clearance: How to Get Through Argentine Customs

Argentina requires all importers (even private individuals) to register a tax number CUIL/CUIT and indicate an “electronic fiscal domicile” on the AFIP website. Without this — 100% package delay.
Key challenges:

• Restrictions on the quantity of identical goods;
• Complex procedures for the customs broker;
• Unpredictable customs invoices.

DHL has an extensive network and experience in international shipping, but customer reviews from Argentina are quite mixed. In simple cases, the shipment is cleared quickly, but in situations with exceeded limits or non-standard contents — delays are possible. Some users had to intervene personally to get things moving.

“The package was delayed due to exceeding the item limit. I had to travel to Buenos Aires (700+ km) and personally go for 3 days in a row: first to the DHL warehouse in Mataderos, then to the customs office.” — [Reddit]

FedEx has a wide network and delivers quickly to Argentina, but some customers raise concerns about the transparency of customs charges — especially when limits are exceeded. In some cases, recipients paid significantly more than expected.

“The courier charged me ~50,000 pesos in customs fees for goods worth only $32 (a Lego order). The package contained several identical items, and FedEx took it out of the preferential regime as commercial.” — [Reddit]

UPS, like other carriers, requires the recipient’s tax data. However, in some situations, the process of releasing the shipment is less flexible — for example, personal presence at the customs terminal is required. This creates difficulties.

“UPS said I had to go to Ezeiza with documents and pay $150. I sent the data by email — they didn’t accept it. It was difficult to resolve the issue remotely.” — [Reddit]

Argentine customs requires precision in documentation, and the entire success of delivery depends on it. Regardless of the chosen carrier, the best result comes from proper document preparation and experienced support. And that’s exactly what the GlobalPost team provides.

Delivery Speed: Who Works Faster

DHL shows the best transit time performance thanks to the launch of its own cargo flight to Argentina (6 times a week). This allows part of the shipments to be cleared on the day of arrival.

“DHL and FedEx have no problem delivering to Argentina, fully handling customs clearance — though it’s not cheap.” — [Reddit]

FedEx shows similar delivery times for priority services. But in both cases, the main delay occurs at customs, especially if the package is sent for additional inspection (“red channel”).

“My DHL package was stuck for 15 days at Argentine customs. At first they promised to check it within 24–48 hours, but it dragged on for weeks.” — [Reddit]

UPS in major cities works within the expected time frame. However, in the regions there are serious delays.

“UPS kept my package for 15 days in a warehouse in Buenos Aires. Until I found out about it myself, they didn’t even plan to deliver it.” — [Reddit]

In terms of transit time, DHL has the advantage due to direct flights and an extensive network in Argentina. FedEx is almost as fast, but both carriers depend on the efficiency of local customs. UPS can be reliable in large cities, but delays in the regions are not uncommon. If speed is critical, especially outside the capital, DHL appears to be the most stable option.

Reliability and Transparency: Where There Are Fewer Problems

UPS more often faces criticism from users — mainly due to difficulties with delivery in remote regions, limited control over local partners, and insufficient responsiveness of support.

“UPS in Argentina practically doesn’t exist anymore — deliveries are made by Ocasa.” — [Reddit]

FedEx is reliable in terms of the delivery itself, but often draws complaints due to sudden high customs fees that cannot be predicted in advance. In addition, some users complain about slow support responses, especially in complex situations. Some even gave up using express delivery services.

DHL has the most stable reputation among the three. Its own service centers and direct network ensure higher reliability. In recent reviews from Argentina, we found almost no direct complaints about lost DHL shipments — these are rather isolated incidents. However, difficulties are still possible — especially with support in complex customs cases.

In terms of reliability and control, DHL has the best reputation thanks to its own network in Argentina. FedEx is reliable in terms of physical delivery, but often raises questions due to unpredictable fees and slow support. UPS may be suitable for large cities, but customers in remote regions encounter problems more often.

Advantages of Shipping to Argentina with GlobalPost

Argentina is a challenging destination, so our team provides full delivery support: from choosing the carrier to getting through customs. We work with DHL, FedEx and UPS, but always tailor the solution to the specific task — depending on the type of cargo, deadlines, and budget. Our clients receive:

• Individual consultation on Argentine customs requirements (AFIP, CUIL, etc.);
• Favorable delivery terms thanks to direct agreements with carriers;
• Assistance with document preparation and control at all stages;
• Support for both private and commercial shipments.

GlobalPost is a service that prevents mistakes before they occur. We take on the complex logistics so your shipment safely reaches Argentina, and you won’t have to deal with complicated rules and requirements — we’ll do everything for you.

What to Choose: Recommendations for Different Cases

• Personal shipments and gifts. If speed and predictability are important — choose DHL. FedEx is also suitable, but it is important to correctly fill out the documents and check that the recipient’s tax number is indicated.
• Bulky cargo (furniture, equipment, art). FedEx and DHL have separate freight divisions and experience with these categories. The choice between them depends on budget and delivery conditions.
• For business (B2B, samples, online orders). DHL is the most stable option, especially for regular imports. FedEx is also suitable. UPS can be considered if you have a trusted person or representative in Buenos Aires ready to interact with local agents.

Shipping to Argentina is a complex process, but with GlobalPost’s support it’s possible. We consult, arrange, and accompany. Contact us — we’ll help you do everything right.

Conclusion

Shipping to Argentina from Ukraine has its own specifics — and no carrier is universal for all cases. DHL is often chosen for stability and speed, FedEx — when cost savings are important, and UPS may be suitable in certain situations. At GlobalPost, we help you understand the details and choose the solution that best suits your particular shipment.