BajaNomad - Crossing into Mexico with the New Customs Agents...

Crossing into Mexico with the New Customs Agents...

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bajabound2005 - 8-19-2009 at 08:05 AM

here are a couple of reports from yesterday from our local Yahoo group:

"...get gas in San Ysidro and then on to Baja Duty Free. Buy the stuff we need and get to the border. Now here is the wierd stuff! I get "PASE", BUT NOOO! I get pulled over anyway!
Stupid van next to me is to pull over but doesn't and so they pull me over. They have me back up any which way until I'm in the declaration . I Don't know what they want but they want something! They want to search the car that I am driving, my mom's car. So I wait and wait and wait. Then someone comes over to inspect the back of the suv and start pulling out all the stuff I bought at the duty free. They start taking notes. Then they want to open all the luggage and the boxes I have packed with the 50 pair of jeans to donate to the Santas Closet from an action in Bako. OH S****. Now they are going to take my donations! I said that box is my moms clothes and that box is my husbands cloths and that box is mine. All they really were interested in was my duty free. I had no idea that
there was a limit on booz and cigs. I was stocking up and didnt know that there was a limit. Had to pay 175% duty on overlimit on cigs and 65% duty on liquor. We were there for 1 1/2 hours. All the people I delt with were the most personable, gracious and polite young people. I have ever come across in along time. Nothing like I have encountered on the otherside with the US Customs!..."

"...There are all new young people doing a great job of pulling in anybody that hasa box in there back seat of there car or in the back of a truck. I yesterday, had a 15yr old freezer,1 dresser and 1 rocking chair and a ice chest with some
raw/ fresh chicken, Anyway the chicken is not allowed and the small uprite freezer had to be taken over to the Otay border, OK, the chicken is now in the back seat of my truck, I pull in to pay duty and the place is packed. There were some people there for over 6hrs unloading all of there boxes to be checked
and then reloading them, They are charging for everything.. (salt&pepper shakers) No, not that bad, But beware, of the time and duty you may be paying. HEADS UP..."

[Edited on 8-20-2009 by bajabound2005]

DENNIS - 8-19-2009 at 08:21 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by bajabound2005
I have now learned that I can bring 6 liters of booz

I had no idea the amount was that high. Any way to check this out?

meme - 8-19-2009 at 08:44 AM

Last time I was at Duty free they said 3 liters!

bajabound2005 - 8-19-2009 at 08:49 AM

per person

Martyman - 8-19-2009 at 09:41 AM

Why would you take booze into Mexico? How about "when in Rome" I'd just drink tequila. That's like drinking whisky in Italy! The cigs are better in Mex too including Faros, Delicatos and Boots.

Thanks for the crossing reports though. I was curious how the new system and inspectors were behaving.

redhilltown - 8-19-2009 at 10:20 AM

If you like good (or even decent) white wine with your fresh fish & seafood, you bring wine into Mexico! It's getting better (Mexican wine), but sometimes tough to find it when you need it. The Pelican store (I always forget the name...next to Costco) in Ensenada has a pretty good selection.

Sorry to hear of your ordeal but glad ya made it.

Bajahowodd - 8-19-2009 at 11:06 AM

Pelican Store=Commercial Mexicana. They operate all over Mexico, use several other names, including Mega, and also have some restaurants.

meme - 8-19-2009 at 11:09 AM

I take it(booze) to Mexico because the prices at Duty Free are ALWAYS better. In fact some prices are better in U. S. Costco than Mx.
You can almost on some things get two for the price of one in Mx.
It's terrible that tequila & Kalua are made in Mx. imported to U.S. & still more $$ to buy in Mx.
I have only found about one white wine in Mx. that is worth carrying home, & I'm not all that fussy when I can buy Pino Grigio & Chatdonnay at Wal.Mart for $1.97 a bottle.

DENNIS - 8-19-2009 at 11:11 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Martyman
Why would you take booze into Mexico?

I can only assume from your qestion that you have not been to Duty Free. :lol:

DENNIS - 8-19-2009 at 11:16 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by meme
It's terrible that tequila & Kalua are made in Mx. imported to U.S. & still more $$ to buy in Mx.

You can find Tecate Beer cheaper in San Diego than you will find it in Tecate. I never could understand that. Maybe it's coming through the tunnels.

The Gull - 8-19-2009 at 11:23 AM

The informed shopper of booze knows that the myth that all booze on the MX side is cheaper is just a myth.

COSTCO, Playas Liquores in TJ, Duty Free and the MX Grocery Chains must be reviewed regularly for the right deals, if one is going to maintain the proper levels of quality booze (Tequila, Rum, Vodka, Gin, Brandy, Cordials, Wine, etc) in one's possession.

There is no ONE right answer.

Better in the U.S.

MrBillM - 8-19-2009 at 11:24 AM

A friend wanted me to pick up a Bottle of Sauza Conmemorativo for him a few trips back.

When I dropped it over at his house, he asked me where I found it.

Vons in YV.

Cheaper than anywhere I'd stopped in Baja.

Bajahowodd - 8-19-2009 at 11:26 AM

It's called price-fixing. As far as the duty free store at the border goes, I personally find it too much of a hassle to find parking. Lord knows, it takes me long enough driving down from central Orange County, and maybe having to stop to get my FM-T, and now if they're going to rifle through my vehicle. Just figure I'd have to be drinking an awful lot to make it worthwhile. On the other hand, and I don't wish to reveal secrets, but...another duty free experience with no hassle. Last time in Cancun, went up the escalator, and through security to find that all passengers MUST walk through the duty free store inside security to get to the gates. Noticed that they actually sold 100ml bottles. Bought half a dozen. They put it in a bag, handed it to me and I walked onto the plane. It's a long flight from Cancun to LA, and the airlines charge outrageous prices for a drink. Happy flight!

BajaGringo - 8-19-2009 at 12:47 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by The Gull
The informed shopper of booze knows that the myth that all booze on the MX side is cheaper is just a myth.

COSTCO, Playas Liquores in TJ, Duty Free and the MX Grocery Chains must be reviewed regularly for the right deals, if one is going to maintain the proper levels of quality booze (Tequila, Rum, Vodka, Gin, Brandy, Cordials, Wine, etc) in one's possession.

There is no ONE right answer.

A true connoisseur - my kind of guy!!!

:lol:

MitchMan - 8-19-2009 at 12:47 PM

You do have to watch the prices at duty free, even when exiting Mexico at San Ysidro. There is a nice Liqour store that you pass waiting to cross the border on foot. I have gotten some great deals there, but on one occasion didn't get very good deal. I paid $20 for a liter of Cointreau, $19 for one liter of Tradicionales tequila and $30 USD for a liter of Grand Marnier. Good. Paid $27 USD for 1.75 liters of Bombay Saphire gin and $29 USD for 1.75 Liters of Johnnie Walker Red Label - not so good. Saw Red label cheaper in Orange County at Rite-Aid. In town in La Paz at CCC, bought a liter of Bacardi Anejo rum, 1 liter for $8 USD - good. Booze is very important commodity and tastes so much better when you get a deal.

Martyman - 8-19-2009 at 12:54 PM

The last couple times I have bought a bottle of good Artisanias anejo for less then $10 (120 pesos) a bottle. The same tequila was on sale at BevMo for $35 us.
Where did I get it. I'm not telling.
Well, OK, that bright green store in San Quintin. Behind the locked door.

Dennis you are right, I've been to the duty free in England and Canada...never thought it was worth it. I will stop next time.

DENNIS - 8-19-2009 at 01:01 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Martyman

Dennis you are right, I've been to the duty free in England and Canada...never thought it was worth it. I will stop next time.

It's a fun stop. They have good quality merchandise throughout. UETA used to sell ROLEX watches...real ones. Not sure they have that brand any longer but they have other classy brands. Another thing, which should go without saying, no tax.

vacaenbaja - 8-19-2009 at 01:12 PM

The best deal I ever saw at the Duty free in San ysidro was
Johnny Walker Blue Label at under $110 USD about 4 years ago.

DENNIS - 8-19-2009 at 01:17 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by vacaenbaja
The best deal I ever saw at the Duty free in San ysidro was
Johnny Walker Blue Label at under $110 USD about 4 years ago.

That's really a good price. It was a few years back when I saw it at Baja Duty Free for around 140+ bucks. I'm glad I don't like Scotch.

The Gull - 8-19-2009 at 03:18 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by vacaenbaja
The best deal I ever saw at the Duty free in San ysidro was
Johnny Walker Blue Label at under $110 USD about 4 years ago.

I bought a bottle of Blue at that price last month at Super King Market in Altadena. This month, I bought Don Julio 1942 for $75 at the same place.

I have posted on this board about this place before.

msteve1014 - 8-19-2009 at 07:19 PM

I'm confused. Did you have to go to Otay because of a freezer? I will be bringing in a stove and refrigerator at some point. I have no problem paying tax on things, but I really do not want to have to reroute to Otay as a last minute change if I can plan around it.

It's not hijacking if I don't talk about booze is it?

[Edited on 8-20-2009 by msteve1014]

bajabound2005 - 8-19-2009 at 07:39 PM

I did not make either of these trips...I am simply reporting to Baja Nomad what was reported on our local Yahoo group this AM. Can't tell you anymore than what they posted. My understanding from reading the post it that, yes, it was the freezer.

Baja Duty Free: Bombay Sapphire $15, Stoly Vodka $10 -- 35% off the 2nd bottle (of anything). They are always having specials....buy $60 worth of booze, get $10 off...so you go hunting for another bottle to get to the $60.

bajajazz - 8-20-2009 at 10:47 AM

Is this what's known as a hijacked thread? Would like to know more about the new border-crossing hassles and less about the cost of rotgut. Am crossing next month and need to know how much time to allow for reentry in order not to miss plane. Sounds like new customs agents are going apechit in the overly officious department.

DENNIS - 8-20-2009 at 12:37 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by bajajazz
Am crossing next month and need to know how much time to allow for reentry in order not to miss plane.

I don't think your question can be answered without pure guess-work. Who's to say what will be happening there next month, next week or tomorrow.
There are sites to check crossing times, such as this:

http://apps.cbp.gov/bwt/

but they're for northbound traffic. I would hope that soon a site will be available for southbound traffic as well.

In the meantime, don't miss the sale on V.O. at Baja Duty Free.

irenemm - 8-20-2009 at 02:31 PM

we were told at TJ if you have more than 1000.00 dlls value you must go to Otay. At that time the import closed at 3:00 p.m. and you had to start over the next day.
do not even try to get them to accept a tip to cross at Tj.
If you do not declare at the border you can have your vehicle taken and be charged up to 800% for the stuff you did not declare and pay taxes on. Happened to my best freind. Took 3 days to get the car back and cost him 800.00 dlls. He had a box of the small ticket that go on the fruit in the trunk of the car he forgot about it. They did not care.
We just buy almost everything in Baja. Cost more but in the end cost less.
Same with the booze. The green store in Card##as just pass San Quintin is the Avigal it has really good prices for booze hard to find parking but good prices. It is on the East side of the Hwy.
Help the economy of Mexico if you live here buy here.

rts551 - 8-20-2009 at 02:53 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by irenemm
Happened to my best freind. Took 3 days to get the car back and cost him 800.00 dlls. He had a box of the small ticket that go on the fruit in the trunk of the car he forgot about it. They did not care.

I am sorry. I don't understand

DENNIS - 8-20-2009 at 02:54 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by irenemm
Help the economy of Mexico if you live here buy here.

All well and good if you can find what you want and need here. So often you can't.
There will be an adjustment in the enthusiasm of the inspectors soon. The first response is what they're after. The SY crossing just won't tolerate thorough inspection for lack of space and they'll soon learn that. I mean...gawwwwdammm. Do we have to be treated like they do at the airports? It'll just ruin tourism in the region and commerce on both sides. This kind of pressure won't last.

irenemm - 8-20-2009 at 03:18 PM

You can find anything you want in Mexico. It takes time but it is here. Years ago before freee trade (not really freee) You could not get things here but now everything is here.
If you bring in something anything above what you are allowed and do not declare it, it is contraband and you can get fined for not declaring it and paying the duties on it.
The Mexican government does and does not care about the tourist. I have been in the tourist business now since 1978 when we bought this. Over the years they have done many things to run off the tourist.
They want to make things better at all cost. Sure you can find someone who will take a tip at the boarder but who. Just like the cops who and which one. choose the wrong one and you might have a problem.
Buy it in Mexico. It cost more but it is here somewhere

DENNIS - 8-20-2009 at 04:53 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by irenemm
You can find anything you want in Mexico.

boolchit

[Edited on 8-20-2009 by DENNIS]

rts551 - 8-20-2009 at 04:57 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by rts551

Quote:

I am sorry. I don't understand

IRENE

You didn't answer

David K - 8-20-2009 at 05:00 PM

Yah, what is a "small ticket that go on the fruit" ???

rts551 - 8-20-2009 at 05:00 PM

chiquita

sylens - 8-20-2009 at 05:43 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS

Quote:

Originally posted by irenemm
You can find anything you want in Mexico.

boolchit

[Edited on 8-20-2009 by DENNIS]

i'm with dennis. try and find non-fat sugar- (and sugar substitute-)free yogurt anywhere in baja...

i know that's not what most of you guys are talking about, but
i'm just sayin'...

DENNIS - 8-20-2009 at 05:45 PM

Hi Lili...Nice to see you.

The Gull - 8-21-2009 at 08:45 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by bajajazz
Is this what's known as a hijacked thread? Would like to know more about the new border-crossing hassles and less about the cost of rotgut. Am crossing next month and need to know how much time to allow for reentry in order not to miss plane. Sounds like new customs agents are going apechit in the overly officious department.

Stay home or start your crossing today, with your 'tude you may be detained for a few weeks.

bajabound2005 - 8-21-2009 at 08:51 AM

We crossed yesterday - no problem. it seemed they were, at first, pulling over all SUVs, trucks and vans. Crossed in our SUV, green light, and we carried on. They were not waving ANYONE over yesterday. They may have been over-zealous their first couple of days on the new job, creating traffic backups, etc. Seems pretty normal now.

That being said, if you are bringing in appliances, etc - go to Otay and avoid the headache that may or may not come with attempting to cross at SY.

DENNIS - 8-21-2009 at 08:55 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by bajabound2005

That being said, if you are bringing in appliances, etc - go to Otay and avoid the headache that may or may not come with attempting to cross at SY.

Worst headache immaginable. They just open the gate in the fence and put you at the mercy of the northbound crossers who lost their sense of humor and humanity long ago. It takes a special person to allow you to break into the line.

Bob and Susan - 8-21-2009 at 02:00 PM

i crossed yesterday at otay mesa

lots of american guards with weapons ready

mexicans were moving right along

only red lights went to inspection area

no problems at the border

on the way over our guys were "ready" with weapons
VERY professional

i ALWAYS like our inspectors
they have the correct "attitude" :light:

irenemm - 8-21-2009 at 02:24 PM

oh i did not answer because i had to go buy splenda or equal at the store in town
try cosco in ensenada they have both sugars. smart and final has it too.
the tickets for the fruit are the little stickers with the number you see on it

home depot and walmart have stoves and ref. try a restuarant supply if you want commercial
fat free and sugar free yogurt is made by LaLa most store have it you need to look for it but it is here if not ask the grocer to get it.
dennis get a phone book and look in the yellow pages it is in spanish and english you can buy what ever you need in Mexico.

CaboRon - 8-21-2009 at 02:36 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by irenemm
oh i did not answer because i had to go buy splenda or equal at the store in town
try cosco in ensenada they have both sugars. smart and final has it too.
the tickets for the fruit are the little stickers with the number you see on it

home depot and walmart have stoves and ref. try a restuarant supply if you want commercial
fat free and sugar free yogurt is made by LaLa most store have it you need to look for it but it is here if not ask the grocer to get it.
dennis get a phone book and look in the yellow pages it is in spanish and english you can buy what ever you need in Mexico.

As long as you don't care about the quality .... especially the appliances :lol:

DENNIS - 8-21-2009 at 03:00 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by irenemm
dennis get a phone book and look in the yellow pages it is in spanish and english you can buy what ever you need in Mexico.

I have a phone book and use it regularly. In spite of what you find in the phone book, you're just wrong. Available products in Mexico are only a fraction of what's available in the states...even at the same store. Home Depot is my most irritating example. They sell pneumatic nail guns but, not the proper nails. They're electrical department is dismal. If there's a common item you need to do a job, they won't have it. No metal rain gutters, only flimsy plastic crap.
I could go on and on. The grocery stores have come a long way but, nowhere near the selection available in the states. Take a new car under warranty to the Ford dealer for window motor repair and they won't have the parts.

It's getting better, that's for sure but, it's not the same. Not yet.

Sheeit....I'm still waiting for non-fat milk at Gigante etc. Low fat only. [OK...Soriana's]

SDRonni - 8-21-2009 at 04:25 PM

The mover we are using to move our furniture to Las Olas Grand told me that, where it used to take an hour, maybe two, to cross the border going south with a load, it is now taking 4 to 5 hours, and that the customs agents are charging much more than they did previously. Isn't this just great?!!! :fire:

My timing leaves much to be desired............

The Gull - 8-21-2009 at 06:42 PM

Sounds like a good way to rip you off - blaming the customs agents.

fdt - 8-21-2009 at 08:01 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by irenemm
You can find anything you want in Mexico. It takes time but it is here.

You need to show me around because I have not found Corned beef hash, cranberry sauce, can of chili and many, many other items. I can't even seem to find canned spinach, not to mention hamburger, tuna or pork helper.
And Dennis is right Home Depot in Mexico sucks.

rts551 - 8-21-2009 at 08:07 PM

You still did not answer... sniff snff,.,, do I smell somwething wrong here

Quote:

Santiago - 8-22-2009 at 07:38 AM

Since this thread went sideways long ago: why can't I find green plate (pressure treated lumber) in Baja? They always look at me funny when I ask for 'madera verde'. End up having to buy untreated and then going to the paint department for copper.

Pacifico - 8-22-2009 at 08:04 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Santiago
Since this thread went sideways long ago: why can't I find green plate (pressure treated lumber) in Baja? They always look at me funny when I ask for 'madera verde'. End up having to buy untreated and then going to the paint department for copper.

I had the same problem. I did find that they had some at Los Flemate, but it was all broken and no good. They might have some good stuff depending upon when they receive a shipment of it. Look in the next yard over to the south from their main yard against the rear wall. Home Depot didn't have any at all and had no clue as to what it was. We ended up just making our own by painting the wood with this green insecticide stuff that is made for that purpose. I don't recall the name of it.....

DENNIS - 8-22-2009 at 08:05 AM

Quote:

I've seen Wolmanized lumber at Home Depot, Ensenada. I have no idea as to their inventory of it today.

Pacifico - 8-22-2009 at 08:10 AM

Does anyone know the importation tax rate for bringing in goods? I've heard all kinds of different numbers.....

DENNIS - 8-22-2009 at 08:15 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Pacifico

Quote:

Originally posted by Santiago

We ended up just making our own by painting the wood with this green insecticide stuff that is made for that purpose.

It may have been "Copper Green." It's just a little bit better than nothing for that purpose but, I know...what can you do? The problem with the stuff is that it only treats the surface of the wood. Good preservative has to be pressure treated into the wood. Wolmanizing permeates a bit better and you wouldn't want to hear the price of the most effective treatment.
If the lumber is to be used at a critical point, such as mud sill, I'd be inclined to soak them in diesel, kerosene or something like that. You wouldn't want to do that to your whole framed house. It would interfere with that pleasing tequila and beer odor you will spend so much time and effort to develop.

OOOOPS...Made a mess of the quote boxes up there. Sorry.

[Edited on 8-22-2009 by DENNIS]

DENNIS - 8-22-2009 at 08:22 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Pacifico
Does anyone know the importation tax rate for bringing in goods? I've heard all kinds of different numbers.....

General consensus is 15% but, it's probably higher for electronics, particularly if made in China and what isn't.
Building materials may have special consideration as well...not sure. The tariff scale in the past has been so flakey it's hard to tell what's what today, even in spite of what you may read in those "official" lists.

Pacifico - 8-22-2009 at 08:32 AM

Any idea on the $ amount before you have to go over to Otay? I saw someone said $1000.00. Any one know for sure? I'd like to avoid that whole Otay mess if possible - I heard it's really time consuming....

Woooosh - 8-22-2009 at 08:32 AM

Mexico announced (via a UT Letter to Editor) it is considering a dedicated southbound lane at San Ysidro for SENTRI card holders driving south into Mexico to speed things up. Interesting.

text:

"Border delays likely for southbound vehicles The San Diego Chamber of Commerce's Mexico Business Center has initiated its Project Smart Border 2010 program to work with customs authorities on both sides of the border to help reduce wait times. Many of the Project Smart Border suggestions in the past year have been accomplished and northbound border wait times have been reduced. Now, southbound border wait times have become an equal concern.

At a joint July 30 of the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Consejo Coordinador Empresarial Tijuana (umbrella organization for business groups), stakeholders met with Paul Henning, assistant director of field operations for U.S.

Customs and Border Protection, and Carlos Ramirez Escoto, director of Mexican Customs. The prime topic was anticipated delays due to the implementation of the SIAVE southbound border checks by Mexico.

It was suggested that Mexico accept the Department of Homeland Security's SENTRI Trusted Traveler program for southbound travel. Dedicated southbound SENTRI lanes would help alleviate delays.

However, the ultimate solution needs to be additional southbound lanes at San Ysidro and Otay Mesa using sophisticated technology to assure that inspection of each auto takes no more than five seconds.

Currently, there are 24 northbound lanes, but only seven southbound lanes. This, in itself, can be the cause of delays as more than 95 percent of border crossers go both ways -- most the same day.

JAMES C. CLARK Director General Mexico Business Center San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce "

[Edited on 8-22-2009 by Woooosh]

DENNIS - 8-22-2009 at 08:36 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Woooosh
Mexico announced (via a UT Letter to Editor)

Is that how Mexico makes important announcements these days?
Wow...The lines of communication seem frazzled.

SDRonni - 8-22-2009 at 08:39 AM

Southbound SENTRI lane would be awesome!

DENNIS - 8-22-2009 at 09:05 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by SDRonni
Southbound SENTRI lane would be awesome!

Seems like a good idea today but, in short order, it'll be a superfluous proposal. Things at the entrance will settle down and the confusion will turn to order.
Besides, Sentri is a US document, not Mexican. Perhaps they'll put their own fast track document into place and gather all that revenue.

nbacc - 8-22-2009 at 09:45 AM

15% is what we have always gone by when taking things in . Of course it always depends on who you are dealing with. I have never talked to anyone who took over 20 min of dealing with "who ever "to get their stuff across. We always pay something and are happy to let them look. We took a whole trailer load of household when we furnished our house and it took about 15 min of negociations. We were happy he was happy...Maria at the last gate was happy and waved adios after learning that Mario had given us the GO.

DENNIS - 8-22-2009 at 10:11 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by nbacc
We took a whole trailer load of household when we furnished our house and it took about 15 min of negociations. We were happy he was happy...

Yep...That's how it was done. I did the same on countless occasions. Unfortunatly, you, me and that inspector are the cause of all this upheaval. Can't say as I blame them.

It isn't the Money - It's the Principle

MrBillM - 8-22-2009 at 10:25 AM

Well, really it's the Damned HASSLE.

I have no problem PAYING for items. I DO detest them digging through things before (and sometimes after) I've declared something, sitting there filling out the import document, walking over to the Bank and standing in line to pay the duty and THEN going through the Red Light-Green Light routine again before leaving.

The GREAT Thing about Mordida is that they quote a price, you pay on the spot in cash and go on your way.

It will be a real shame if those days are gone.

DENNIS - 8-22-2009 at 11:33 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by MrBillM
It will be a real shame if those days are gone.

Probably not gone. We're still dealing with uncanonized living souls here.

Bajahowodd - 8-22-2009 at 11:36 AM

So, there's good and bad morditas?

DENNIS - 8-22-2009 at 11:46 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bajahowodd
So, there's good and bad morditas?

I didn't say that.

Bajahowodd - 8-22-2009 at 11:51 AM

It appears that was Bill's implication. I just figure it's part of the same culture, and if people encourage criminal behavior in one situation, they ought not complain about it in another.

DENNIS - 8-22-2009 at 12:16 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bajahowodd
It appears that was Bill's implication. I just figure it's part of the same culture, and if people encourage criminal behavior in one situation, they ought not complain about it in another.

I think that could apply to the Mexican government as well. Mordita at the border, or anywhere, is a team sport.

There's mordita...

Dave - 8-22-2009 at 12:20 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bajahowodd
So, there's good and bad morditas?

And then there's extortion.

Mordida: You get pulled over for speeding. The fine is 400 pesos. The cop accepts 200.

Extortion: You get pulled over for not speeding. :rolleyes:

schwlind - 8-22-2009 at 12:40 PM

I just received an email from a friend who lives in Ensenada regarding the new regulations going south into Mexico with a link to a site which gives more information... If someone has already posted this information, please forgive the duplication.

Here's the url...

http://www.aduanas.sat.gob.mx/aduana_mexico/2008/pasajeros/1...

Linda

comitan - 8-22-2009 at 12:52 PM

Just went through the TJ border crossing Thursday with an RV, there were 3 agent 2 young women 1 guy, one of the women wanted to inspect the RV, she opened the door looked in said be on your way. :lol:

wornout - 8-22-2009 at 04:54 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bajahowodd
So, there's good and bad morditas?

My take on the situation is:

The good mordita is the stuff you give the individual who stops you at the border. That money goes in to the local economy.

The bad mordita is the stuff you give the bank people when you declare and they send it to Mexico City and you know where that money goes, yea, not to the local economy.

Good/Bad

Lee - 8-22-2009 at 05:57 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Dave

Mordida: You get pulled over for speeding. The fine is 400 pesos. The cop accepts 200.

Good mordida unless you want to pay much less, then you go to the Station.

Quote:

Extortion: You get pulled over for not speeding. :rolleyes:

Very bad mordida. DON'T PAY EVER. Call the bluff or go the station and cop a plea. If it's extortion the cop will probably back down after a few go-arounds.

monoloco - 8-22-2009 at 06:20 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by fdt

Quote:

Originally posted by irenemm
You can find anything you want in Mexico. It takes time but it is here.

Geez, I can't believe that with all the great fresh food in Baja you're worried about finding stuff like that. We just eat the local delicacies wherever we happen to be.

fdt - 8-22-2009 at 06:39 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by monoloco

Quote:

Originally posted by fdt

Quote:

Originally posted by irenemm
You can find anything you want in Mexico. It takes time but it is here.

Geez, I can't believe that with all the great fresh food in Baja you're worried about finding stuff like that. We just eat the local delicacies wherever we happen to be.

"Mexican man does not live on chorizo con huevo y frijoles alone"

DENNIS - 8-22-2009 at 07:40 PM

'Bout time for a Spam thread. YUMMY

irenemm - 8-22-2009 at 08:14 PM

Dennis
where do you live?
San quintin Avigal has many of the things you just mentioned.
I guess I fell we have everything now becasue when I moved here some almost 29 years ago. We had nothing. the meat was the dead cow on the back of the pick up with flys all over it the milk was always bad, if you got any.
Now it seems we have everything. stop by I'll give you my corn beef hash as i don't like the can stuff any longer.on st patrick day we have corn beef and cabbage as I am irish alone with bailey' irish cream flan. I order fresh cranberries for Thanksgiving and have them delivered but smart and final has cranberry sauce. can chili you can get at the avigal and sometimes Costco has it. Try the soriania ( was the gigante) fresh spinach at costco i have seen canned spinach at the aliancia another store in vicente guerrero.
maybe your now where we were in this town 29 years ago. yes the stores in the states are better and i love to shop with them but they are 200 miles away.
tuna good stuff costco packed in water white albacore hambuger try the avigal most of the beef they have is from the states or canada.
what is pork helper? someone to kill the pig. I got a guy that works for me who can do that for you
ok so maybe you can not get green wood so you have to do with what is here. that is the beauty of living rustic is it? if everything was the same as the states we would have more poeple here right? the beauty would be gone.

DENNIS - 8-22-2009 at 08:44 PM

Do they have SPAM?

irenemm - 8-22-2009 at 08:52 PM

yes they do lite and regualar

fdt - 8-22-2009 at 09:26 PM

It was me, not Dennis, I want the Helper.

Quote:

Originally posted by irenemm

San quintin Avigal has many of the things you just mentioned.

I'm in Tijuana, why would I go to San Quintin for a can of spinach? And what is an Avigal?

Quote:

Originally posted by irenemm
I guess I fell we have everything now becasue when I moved here some almost 29 years ago. We had nothing. the meat was the dead cow on the back of the pick up with flys all over it the milk was always bad, if you got any.

The meat we eat now is still from a dead cow but she left good milk before she became a steak.

irenemm - 8-22-2009 at 09:34 PM

avigal is a large grocery store
if your in TJ you should be able to find any food items you want
yes the cows are dead of course just not in the back of the pickup ( at least we don't see it) they is how it was done in 1980/81 and before

what is pork helper?

bajabound2005 - 8-22-2009 at 09:57 PM

It's MORDIDA, not mordiTa...which may have a completely different meaning!

DENNIS - 8-23-2009 at 06:04 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by irenemm

what is pork helper?

Like "Hamburger Helper," I'm sure. What we really need up here is "Yellowtail Helper." Do they have any of that? It would be on the shelf right next to the "Bonita Helper."

Don Alley - 8-23-2009 at 08:06 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by schwlind
I just received an email from a friend who lives in Ensenada regarding the new regulations going south into Mexico with a link to a site which gives more information... If someone has already posted this information, please forgive the duplication.

Here's the url...

http://www.aduanas.sat.gob.mx/aduana_mexico/2008/pasajeros/1...

Linda

So, what is the exemption?

from the link:

Quote:

Up to 75 USD per person in permitted goods, or its equivalent in other currencies. Passengers traveling with family members (spouse and children) may combine their personal exemptions only when arriving together on the same vehicle. In order to claim this additional exemption, passengers must have the corresponding commercial invoices or receipts available

Quote:

Remember that you are entitled to bring in up to US$300 worth of goods in addition to the goods included in your personal luggage, and that you are allowed to combine this amount with family members

They seem to contradict themselves.

Flying by air, it's $300 now, I just flew and there's a new form that says that so the Loreto agent couldn't rip me off this time.
Is there more with an FM3?

Anyway, thanks for the link Linda, it does have a lot of good info.

DENNIS - 8-23-2009 at 11:37 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Don Alley
They seem to contradict themselves.

Mexico??? Contradictions???? :lol:

irenemm - 8-23-2009 at 02:53 PM

my freind was here for breakfast this morning he said he crossed yesterday in Tj. He is Mexican and he could bring up to $2500. dlls worth of stuff. He has a second hand store. He said they they turned back a gringo with his household of furniture because he did not have receipts. he was moving to TJ and they would not let his stuff cross. this gingo had all the papers but they wanted more of course. My friend said it is the same for Tj or Otay. He know it is different if you are gingos without papers. and gringo with some papers.
good luck to anyone crossing.
have some friends coming down tomorrow to spend a week here. will let you know how it goes for them. they always bring some children clothes to give away to our employees.
the laws change with the changing of clean underwear

DENNIS - 8-23-2009 at 02:58 PM

OK....So how about the Yellowtail Helper and the Bonita Helper? Do they have it down there? A lot of fishing folks would like to see it here.
Lemme know.

Paulina - 8-23-2009 at 03:05 PM

Dennis,

Yellowtail and Bonita helper? My thinking is that "helper" would be a person who knows how to process and prepare it from the get go.

I could "help" you out here, but I don't think you'd really be interested.

Beware of the first time I invite you over for dinner....(insert evil laugh here).

Your pal,
P<*)))>{

Man, I miss the Sharky days when we could discuss such topics face to face....can't wait till Sept. 23rd.

DENNIS - 8-23-2009 at 03:36 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Paulina
Man, I miss the Sharky days when we could discuss such topics face to face....can't wait till Sept. 23rd.

Oh yeah....That's a month away. I'm still outa there. See ya soon.

Bajahowodd - 8-23-2009 at 03:56 PM

A gringo moving to TJ in these times??

dianaji - 8-23-2009 at 04:04 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by irenemm
my freind was here for breakfast this morning he said he crossed yesterday in Tj. He is Mexican and he could bring up to $2500. dlls worth of stuff. He has a second hand store. He said they they turned back a gringo with his household of furniture because he did not have receipts. he was moving to TJ and they would not let his stuff cross. this gingo had all the papers but they wanted more of course. My friend said it is the same for Tj or Otay. He know it is different if you are gingos without papers. and gringo with some papers.
good luck to anyone crossing.
have some friends coming down tomorrow to spend a week here. will let you know how it goes for them. they always bring some children clothes to give away to our employees.
the laws change with the changing of clean underwear

Bajahowodd - 8-23-2009 at 04:06 PM

Thanks for pointing out I don't yet know how to read English. :no:

dianaji - 8-23-2009 at 04:06 PM

what? i bring down stuff every time i come, like things for when i move there permanently (if that ever happens), clothes to give away, and most times i just drive thru. has that changed?

Bajahowodd - 8-23-2009 at 04:28 PM

Under the present regime, the quick answer is, yes.

dianaji - 8-23-2009 at 04:32 PM

i am bringing down my new coleman cooler, which is like a small fridge, a mirror, and things like that. i NEED that cooler! can u please be more specific?

DENNIS - 8-23-2009 at 05:07 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by dianaji
i am bringing down my new coleman cooler, which is like a small fridge, a mirror, and things like that. i NEED that cooler! can u please be more specific?

Don't worry about it. Just go. I doubt you're bringing anything that would get their attention and they arn't completely unreasonable.

dianaji - 8-23-2009 at 05:22 PM

whew! thanks! ever since i was returning back to the US, they stopped me and made me go to the 2nd place because i had an apple! i told them that i had taken it with me from the Us, and just didn't eat it...they then profusely scolded me, telling me if it is brought into mexico then it's from mexico, and all of the dangers of bringing fruit into the states with seeds...i was sooo tired from the trip and waiting in line and then another 1/2 hour having my car inspected for further violations.*sigh* anyway, thanks for the encouragement.

k-rico - 8-23-2009 at 05:38 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bajahowodd
A gringo moving to TJ in these times??

A friend of mine just bought a new house in Playas de Tijuana, an upper middle class neighborhood, built 3 years ago, never lived in. I found it for him. Smack dap on the ocean, on a bluff. Two story, 1600 sq. ft. 180 degree ocean views, Point Loma to the north, Punta Bandera to the south, Coronado Islands straight out to the west. About 0.5 miles from the border along the beach. Asking price 2 years ago was $210K. He got it for $160K. Not a property lease deal, a real deal. Nice lot with a small yard. Easy $600K in Imperial beach, about 2 miles to the north. 20 - 30 minutes to the border crossing.

"When there's blood in the streets, buy real estate." - Baron Rothschild

[Edited on 8-24-2009 by k-rico]

SDRonni - 8-24-2009 at 09:15 AM

We're going to be moving stuff to our condo in the next few weeks, so would appreciate continued reports on this topic here in this forum. Thanks!

DENNIS - 8-24-2009 at 09:57 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by SDRonni
We're going to be moving stuff to our condo in the next few weeks, so would appreciate continued reports on this topic here in this forum. Thanks!

Poco a Poco, Ronni, Poco a Poco. You've developed Oriental patience watching your place get built so, keep it up just a little longer.

SDRonni - 8-24-2009 at 10:28 AM

Lord knows I'm tryin', Dennis!

Pacifico - 8-25-2009 at 06:05 PM

Any new info/reports on this thread??? Keep the good info coming....

SDRonni - 8-25-2009 at 07:50 PM

We crossed this morning around 11. We weren't carrying anything across, but got the green light and didn't get pulled over. There was no wait to get in, contrary to last week when it took us about 15 minutes to cross southbound.

bajadock - 8-25-2009 at 10:15 PM

Drove south from SD through TJ at 15:30. The "import service" I hired was able to deliver 48 bottles of wine and same qty of beer to my home at 18:00 duty free.

It was only about 15 vehicles deep southbound at SY/TJ this afternoon. I'm thrilled to be home tonight.

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