How to Prepare Your Cargo for the International Crossing via Los Libertadores Pass
Everything you need to know to cross the Andes without delays: documentation, height restrictions, weather conditions and estimated times at the Argentina-Chile pass.
The busiest pass in South America
Los Libertadores Pass —also known as Cristo Redentor— is the most-used overland international crossing between Argentina and Chile. With more than 2 million cargo crossings a year, it is the backbone of bilateral trade between the two countries.
Rutas del Sur operates on this corridor permanently, transporting general cargo, palletized goods and industrial equipment from Mendoza to Santiago, Valparaíso and central Chile.
Mandatory documentation for the crossing
Before loading, make sure you have in order:
On the Argentine side (SENASA / AFIP / Customs)
- Exit Sworn Declaration (DJS) from the exporter
- Phytosanitary certificate (if the cargo includes products of plant or animal origin)
- Commercial invoice in Spanish and English
- Detailed packing list
- Oversized cargo permit (if applicable)
On the Chilean side (SAG / Chilean Customs)
- Entry Declaration before the Customs Service
- SAG certificate for agricultural products
- Cargo manifest with a legible barcode
Important: Chile has very strict sanitary restrictions. Fruit, vegetables, meat and dairy products can be rejected or destroyed at the border without notice. Always check with your customs broker before loading.
Height and weight restrictions
Los Libertadores Pass has the Cristo Redentor tunnel as its critical stretch. The current restrictions are:
| Parameter | Limit |
|---|---|
| Maximum height | 4.50 m |
| Maximum width | 2.60 m |
| Maximum length (combination) | 18.50 m |
| Maximum gross weight | 45 tons |
For cargo exceeding these limits, a special highway permit is required and, in some cases, an official escort.
Weather conditions: the most unpredictable factor
The pass can close without notice due to:
- Snowfall (mainly June to September)
- Zonda winds (gusts up to 120 km/h)
- Dense fog on the curves of the Chilean side
- Minor seismic events requiring tunnel inspection
We always recommend checking the state of the pass before departing. In our resources section you have access to the real-time status of the pass.
Real transit times
Many clients ask us how long the crossing takes. The honest answer is: it depends.
Under normal conditions:
- Mendoza → Argentine border (Las Cuevas): 2 to 2.5 hrs
- Argentine customs procedures: 30 to 90 min
- Tunnel crossing and Chilean customs (Los Andes): 1 to 3 hrs
- Los Andes → Santiago: 1.5 to 2 hrs
Total estimated under favorable conditions: 6 to 9 hours.
In high season (January-February, the wine harvest) or with heavy congestion, customs times can multiply.
Why work with a specialized operator
Operating on the Andean corridor requires knowing:
- The lowest-congestion times in each season of the year
- The relationships with brokers on both sides
- The specific requirements by type of goods
- The mandatory international insurance (CMR policy or similar)
At Rutas del Sur we accompany your cargo from Mendoza to the destination in Chile, with permanent tracking and direct communication with our drivers.
Need to quote freight to Chile? Fill out our quote form and we will reply within 24 business hours.
