Crossing the TX/MX boarder

Canadian couple crossing the TX/MX boarder with a camper for the first time and have no idea what to expect. Any tips or info appreciated!

Thanks!!!

[Chino1]

www.consulmexsf.com

Click on service to non Mexican

[bear]

SanJean,

Expect desert type roads near the border. Expect that rules of the road are NOT obeyed
here in Mexico as in US or Canada. Expect some hiways have heavy & fast truck traffic......pemex service stations are becoming more plentiful, now at $2.25
US per gallon. Many drivers are rude. Expect beautful countryside, albeit somewhat rustic and trashy in places......around major cities, traffic can be
a nightmare. People are generally helpful and kind, face to face (not as
fellow drivers). Beautiful views in some areas. Prices are less expensive
here. Very few speak English. Animals on the roads at night. Lots of dogs
in the small towns. Expect a very interesting experience. Expect that there will be a bunch of posts following this post telling you I am wrong. Bear

[williamj]

Hi:
If it is information on taking vehicles into Mexico you are after, here is what to expect.

You are allowed to bring in a vehicle (car, etc.) and a trailer registered in your name or leased by you. The temporary import permit issued at the border is good for as long as the visitor's papers (180 days). To get these papers you will need a valid credit card in the name of the registered owner of the vehicle. They charge your card with a fee of about $30.US.
You should get Mexican insurance before entering Mexico, as your Canadian insurance will not cover you there. Sanborn, although probably the most expensive, is best for your first go; the Help number they give will be answered by someone who speaks English. They have offices in most border cities, or you can go to www.sanbornsinsurance.com. Before crossing the border make photo copies of your driver's licence, vehicle ownership, passport (front page) and credit card. You will need these copies to obtain the temporary import papers. You will also need a photo copy of the tourist card they give you, but you can get this made at their office.
Entry is usually uncomplicated, but we have found it is best to go early in the morning (say around 5-6 am.) Go first to immigration and get your tourist card, then go to Customs for the vehicle permit. With luck, you should be through and on the road within a half an hour. But first there is a Customs check of the contents of your vehicle. If you get a green light, you pass right through; if it's red, they will inspect your vehicle (usually not very thoroughly). But you are not through yet. Down the road about twenty miles you will come to another Customs checkpoint. Same routine: green light, pass; red, pull over.

There. That should get you on your way. Someone else can tell you what else to expect. Or, if you have specific questions, email me and I'll try to help.

We have been driving to Mexico for twenty years and have never had an experience we couldn't handle. It is a great country with great people. Enjoy it!

wj

Bear was right.

By the way, take the Colombia-Solidarity international bridge just northwest of Laredo, Texas. You will completely circumvent the lamentable city of Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, a good thing.

That particular crossing is a piece of cake. It opens at 8 a.m.

williamj - I checked out Sanborn Insurance and you were right...their price is over 50% more than the quotes I got from Peoples Guide to Mexico website. Why are they so much better than the others? Mucho infomation in your post.... tanks

bear - always wise insightful info...thanks

Chino1 - good directions... found the MX consulate in Canada

DonPalomares - yes we're crossing at Loredo..... I am breathing easier now!

All great info from you guys....THANKS.