Guides · Updated August 25, 2026

Mexico's customs traffic light explained

When cargo is presented at Mexican customs with its DODA, the SAT's system runs the automated selection mechanism (MSA), better known as the customs traffic light (semáforo fiscal). In that instant the operation's immediate fate is decided: pass freely or go to inspection. Here's what each outcome means and what to expect in each case.

How does the automated selection mechanism work?

When the DODA is scanned — its QR code read at the customs lane or module — the system automatically determines whether the goods are subject to review. The result is binary:

• Green — cleared: the cargo continues on its way with no inspection.
• Red — customs inspection: the authority performs a physical and documentary examination of the goods.

The outcome doesn't depend on the module operator and can't be anticipated: that's why the only way to know what you got is to check the DODA's status — or get the automatic notification.

What happens if you get red?

A customs inspection means customs personnel review the goods against what was declared in the pedimento: quantities, descriptions, values, and non-tariff regulations and restrictions. Times vary by customs office, cargo type and workload at the moment — from a couple of hours to more than a day.

If everything is in order, the status changes to inspection finished and the cargo is released. If the authority finds irregularities, it can raise incidents that lead to administrative procedures — a good reason to learn about the red light as early as possible and have your customs broker ready.

Every DODA status

These are the statuses DODA.mx uses to classify each operation:

Beyond the main four, there are special cases: not found (the SAT doesn't recognize the integration number — double-check it), deleted (the SAT removed the DODA from its system) and unclassified (the portal's response came in an unexpected format and is reviewed manually).

Why monitor the traffic light in real time?

• Drivers don't wait longer than needed: on green they can move as soon as the cargo is released; on red you know the wait will be long and can reorganize routes.
• Clients stop asking: share a read-only link with the live status instead of answering "any news?" every half hour.
• You react to red immediately: your customs broker learns about the inspection within minutes, not whenever someone remembered to check the portal.

Want the manual lookup steps? They're in how to check your DODA status with the SAT.