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parvati

Apr 12, 2003, 5:25 AM

Post #1 of 6 (954 views)

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What's the big problem with used computers at the border ?????

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Hello Everyone,

We have gotten our FM3 in Orlando, and are planning on crossing over at Laredo, leaving in three weeks, heading to Lakeside.

We only have some basic household stuff (kitchen, bedding, clothes) and don't want to do a menaje de casa.

However, we DO have a 5-year old computer that we want to bring. We have the original sales receipt.

Why is it more difficult to bring in an old, used computer than a new one?

I speak fluent Spanish, and hopefully can talk my way through any difficulties at the border.

Answers to the USED computer problem would be very much appreciated. Thanks !

Rolly

Apr 12, 2003, 7:01 AM

Post #2 of 6 (945 views)

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Re: [parvati] What's the big problem with used computers at the border ?????

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The problem with used computers is that the Aduana rules say you cannot bring one. We have all wondered why. Welcome to Mexico. Getting one into the country is a crap shoot. Sometimes the rule is ignored and sometimes it is enforced. There have been posts here from people who have their computers refused, confiscated, and allowed. Good luck.

Rolly Pirate

E-visit me http://Rollybrook.com
On Facebook as Rolly Brook

Jerry@Ajijic

Apr 12, 2003, 7:50 AM

Post #3 of 6 (935 views)

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Re: [Rolly] What's the big problem with used computers at the border ?????

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We also came here from Orlando and once in crossing the border they charged us $140.00 USD duty. The next time we had the same 2 computers and they said nothing and charged us nothing.

Good luck

Major

Apr 12, 2003, 7:56 AM

Post #4 of 6 (935 views)

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Re: [Rolly] What's the big problem with used computers at the border ?????

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I think used computers are somewhat like used cars, they are so cheap in the USA that if they were allowed into the country it would put the local computer industry out of business in short order. But what about charging duty on them you ask? Well maybe the problem with setting the value would make that extremely difficult. Used vehicles have Blue Book market prices which serve as a guide when importing older model pickups.

elcomputo

Apr 13, 2003, 12:01 AM

Post #5 of 6 (891 views)

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Re: [parvati] What's the big problem with used computers at the border ?????

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I hate to leave my computer behind, but... Maybe I'll just bring the two hard drives with all of my data, then purchase a used system there. Anybody have any idea what used systems sell for and where the best place to get them might be? I will be only four hours from D.F.

Maybe the best idea would just be to pick up a used laptop on eBay. For some reason, THEY are legal. And I assume they're also cheaper on this side of the border, which throws into question the assumption Mexico doesn't want cheap computers coming across the border. But then, logic has nothing to do with the rules, anyway, right?

Incidentally, isn't the intent of NAFTA to promote the free flow of goods and commerce? I guess NAFTA has a long way to go before NAFTA comes anywhere near resembling the EU Common Market -- no customs, no border patrols, no duties to pay. I suspect there are too many vested interests on both sides of the border that want to keep wages and salaries in Mexico low to really open up the border.

But then, I guess I shouldn't complain about that. If it weren't for Mexico having a low cost of living, there would be nowhere I could go and expect to live off of what I'm getting from Social Security. (My IRA's and the 401K's were wiped out a long time ago.)

Martin

Madam ZZ

Apr 14, 2003, 8:46 AM

Post #6 of 6 (851 views)

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Re: [elcomputo] What's the big problem with used computers at the border ?????

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IBM has facilities in Mexico. That's the problem. Jobs and a national product. You can get computers in just about any medium sized city.