Legal issues buying a boat in Mexico & importing to USA?

Hardluckcharlie · #1 (**permalink**) 10-21-2011

I am looking at used offshore steel sailboats in the 35' - 40' range and see many that are in my price bracket but would need to be imported. Specifically, one is in Mexico and another in the Netherlands. Any pointers as far as what to expect for fees, insurance, taxes etc would be great. My last boat was purchased inside the US and was previously documented - which made it all easy. I have no idea what to expect as an import.

Thank you!

Hardluckcharlie · #2 (**permalink**) 10-22-2011

I am still hoping for some help on this issue..... in particular, what should I expect for duty taxes or are those handled when I apply for documentation? Who can I call to have these questions answered?

Thank you

capttb · #3 (**permalink**) 10-22-2011

You'll need to contact US Customs and Border Patrol but it appears you'll need to pay duty of 1.5 % when you clear into customs on entry. And provide proof of ownership and EPA compliance of the engine.
https://help.cbp.gov/app/answers/det...rt%20duties%3F
Use or sales taxes are dependent on which state the boat is berthed in, here in California you would be required to pay use tax equivalent to the sales tax rate of the county where the boat is located, 8 to 9 %. If you register boat with state, the Department of Motor Vehicles collects when you transfer title. For documented boats you must contact and pay the tax to State Board of Equalization, if you don't go to them they will find you and come to you.