Last updated: October 10, 2026
Energy projects move large, expensive and regulated equipment: transformers, generators, switchgear, cable, solar panels and industrial plant components. A classification error or a missing NOM can stop critical equipment at the border. This guide covers what to check before shipping.
Electrical and generation equipment
- Transformers: distribution transformers sold in Mexico must meet NOM-002-SEDE/ENER (safety and energy efficiency).
- Much electrical equipment needs a safety NOM and a certificate before import.
- Solar panels and inverters: see our solar panels guide.
- The right tariff classification sets the duty, the NOMs and whether USMCA applies.
Fuels and petroleum products
- Importing petroleum products requires a prior import permit from Mexico’s Energy Ministry (SENER), per product.
- The company must also be registered in the sector-specific importer registry (hydrocarbons and fuels sector).
- The importer holds the permit; we coordinate clearance and the pedimento with that data.
Heavy and oversized cargo
- Power transformers, turbines and structures often exceed weight or size limits: plan transit permits, routes and loading equipment.
- Crossing at Laredo lets you inspect, consolidate and release from our warehouse before moving on to the project site.
- For equipment that goes back or is used on a project for a limited time, check whether a temporary import or IMMEX is the better fit.
What we coordinate
- Classification and NOM review before you buy.
- The pedimento in Nuevo Laredo and the U.S. entry on the same shipment.
- Heavy cargo, the Laredo warehouse and deliveries by project phase.
Related guides: machinery · steel and construction materials · all trade guides
Frequently asked questions about energy project equipment
Which standard must transformers meet in Mexico?
Distribution transformers sold in Mexico must meet NOM-002-SEDE/ENER, for safety and energy efficiency. Much other electrical equipment needs a safety NOM and its certificate before import.
What is needed to import fuels into Mexico?
A prior import permit from Mexico’s Energy Ministry (SENER), per product, and the company’s registration in the sector-specific importer registry. The importer holds the permit; we coordinate clearance and the pedimento with that data.
How does a transformer or oversized equipment cross the border?
With planning. Power transformers, turbines and structures often exceed weight or size limits, so the transit permits, the route and the loading equipment have to be set ahead of time. Send us weights and dimensions from the start.
Is a temporary import a good fit for project equipment?
It can be, when the equipment goes back or is used on the project for a limited time. Depending on the case, the option is a temporary import or IMMEX. We review it with you before the shipment.
Do you coordinate the crossing on both sides of the border?
Yes. We handle the pedimento in Nuevo Laredo and the U.S. entry on the same shipment, with a Laredo warehouse to inspect, consolidate and deliver by project phase.
Working on an energy project?
Send us the equipment list, weights and dimensions, origin and destination. Request a quote or call +1 (956) 717-4150, Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM Central.