** 2016 Update for RVs & Motorhomes on Temporary Importation Permit TIP **
Many of our customers have raised concerns about possibly new regulations regarding the importation of RVs. Our Mexpro Angel, Angelica Terrazas, spoke to Banjercito and below is the information she obtained.
- The maximum weight for all vehicles, including motor homes, in order to obtain a temporary import permit at Banjercito is 7,716 pounds, which is equal to 3.8 tons.
- Temporary import permits for motor homes can be issued for up to 10 years but they have to be registered as a motorhome in order to qualify for this permit.
- Vehicles that exceed the specified weight, need to go to Aduanas (at the border) for an inspection. There it will be determined if the vehicle is in good working condition and meets all the general requirements for temporary importation.
- If the vehicle is towing another car, the attached unit would also undergo the inspection. Also, people who are towing need to make sure they disclose this when applying for the import permits.
- If the motorhome is towing another vehicle, the time limit for the temporary import permit is a maximum of 180 days.
- There could be a difference in the price for vehicles that undergo the extra inspection, than vehicles that only go through Banjercito. According to our sources at Banjercito, Aduanas would determine the cost.
If the vehicle is not returned to the US prior to the expiration date on the permit, or the permit is not canceled upon exiting Mexico, the guarantee deposit will be forfeited.
Before Banjercito issues a permit, they will verify the VIN # to make sure the vehicle does not have any restrictions to be driven in the US or Canada, in which case the permit will not be allowed.
It is important that we remind our customers to cancel the permit at the border prior to returning to the US, to ensure that they receive their guarantee deposit back.
As long as the customers have enough time (between 7-10 days), it is recommended that they process the temporary importation permit online. This will improve their experience and avoid the time spent at the border crossing.
Accepted credit cards for securing the deposit are MasterCard, Visa and American Express. Your card will be imprinted by a Mexican official but the deposit amount will not be charged to your card unless the vehicle is not returned to Banjercito upon the completion of your trip for permit cancellation.