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Sara

Nov 30, 1919, 12:00 AM

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Going to Cozumel for extended time, what can I take?

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I am searching and searching for a (up to date)website that says what I am allowed to take into Mexico duty free, like a customs declaration form or something like that. I have tried different consulate websites and customs websites. All I can find is that you are allowed $300 worth duty free, but of what? What types of items are exempt from this. I will be going for an extended visit and I want to know what personal and household things I can take without getting billed for an outrageous fee.Thanks in advance for any help provided.

Lucy

Nov 30, 1919, 12:00 AM

Post #2 of 4 (505 views)

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Going to Cozumel for extended time, what can I take?

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Should be info out there but not sure where to look. Seems like it should be on this site..I know you can't bring a desk top computer but a lap top is fine. A tv and vcr are OK but the tv can't be larger than 15". No guns, amo or any wepons. Depends on weather you are flying or driving. If it looks like it is for life's creature comforts, are driving, they don't seem to be concerned with what you bring as long as it is legal. Some items like a desk top computer can be brought in but duty must be paid. I have never paid duty on anything. I have crossed the border both by car and plane. I try to use common sense. 6 cameras would be suspect. 3 laptop computers would be suspect. Many of us shop for others when we go to the states.. No problems yet..
: I am searching and searching for a (up to date)website that says what I am allowed to take into Mexico duty free, like a customs declaration form or something like that. : I have tried different consulate websites and customs websites. All I can find is that you are allowed $300 worth duty free, but of what? What types of items are exempt from this. I will be going for an extended visit and I want to know what personal and household things I can take without getting billed for an outrageous fee.: Thanks in advance for any help provided.

Carey

Nov 30, 1919, 12:00 AM

Post #3 of 4 (505 views)

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Going to Cozumel for extended time, what can I take?

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I have taken 4 desktop computers into Cozumel and only got taxed ($25 US) on the latest one. Oh yeah, NAFTA sure is kicking in for the little guy. Yeah right.This is a great board for info about Mexico in general. The best, actually. However, if you have specific questions about moving to Cozumel, you may also wish to check the Living in Cozumel forum which you can find by following the links from www.cozumelmycozumel.comCarey

Rick in Maz

Nov 30, 1919, 12:00 AM

Post #4 of 4 (504 views)

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Going to Cozumel for extended time, what can I take?

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Good luck finding any site that would actually list this information. While in the U.S., I used to phone the Mexican consulate for info. They said, check with customs at the border. I would actually make trips to the border to ask customs in person. They would give me a list orally of what was allowed duty-free and what would be dinged for customs. When I would ask for a printed form, they would tell me "ain't no such thing" since policies changed frequently. You mentioned an allotment of $300. If you are arriving on a tourist visit, I thought the amount was $350 if arriving by air, and $50 by ground (such as bus or car). As someone else pointed out, some things are duty free such as one laptop per person. A desktop is charged at 29 point something (almost 30) percent. After crossing the border many times, I think the best is to just hope for the best that you'll get the green light and it won't be an issue. I would not suggest ever lying to a customs official or on a form. But if you get the red light, be aware that you can still negotiate. After going through everything you have, they may state an amount you need to pay, but you are allowed to argue a bit with them and generally they will come down on the price you should pay. How extended is extended? If you're staying longer than six months and plan to apply for an FM-3, then you can arrange for a one-time allowance for a fee that allows you to bring in household items.There are other articles on this site that give you more information.Good luck,
Rick: I am searching and searching for a (up to date)website that says what I am allowed to take into Mexico duty free, like a customs declaration form or something like that. : I have tried different consulate websites and customs websites. All I can find is that you are allowed $300 worth duty free, but of what? What types of items are exempt from this. I will be going for an extended visit and I want to know what personal and household things I can take without getting billed for an outrageous fee.: Thanks in advance for any help provided.