Moving to Mexico

If you have any additional questions not covered by this FAQ please don’t hesitate to call or email us and we will be happy to help.

Q. What do I need to do to prepare for my move to Mexico?
A. Please read Preparing For Your Move to Mexico for a list of paperwork we will need you to prepare to make your move go smoothly. If you have any other questions please don’t hesitate to call or email us.

Q. How do I estimate the cubic feet of my belongings?
A. Cubic footage is determined by multiplying the length x width x height of your belongings. For instance, a refrigerator that is 3 feet long by 3 feet wide by 6 feet tall would be 54 cubic feet. (3×3x6=54). If the cubic footage of some of your belongings is difficult to calculate, such as a curved sofa, please keep in mind it is better to overestimate than underestimate the cubic footage. If you are not confident that you will be able to provide a close estimate of the cubic footage of your load, don’t worry, one of our moving associates will help you determine it over the phone.

Q. What is a Menaje de Casa and do I need one?
A. A menaje de casa is a document which lists the items you are transporting into Mexico. Each box or piece of furniture you move, for instance, will have a corresponding number on your menaje de casa, next to which should be a description of the item or box of items. “Kitchen ware” is an example. Your menaje de casa will be presented to the customs broker for approval prior to crossing; it will also, if requested, be given to the on duty inspection officer while crossing. Accuracy is an extremely important consideration when creating your menaje de casa. Financial penalties for the company, as well as the possible incarceration of our drivers, can result from inaccurate item listings on your menaje de casa. Please check out our menaje de casa example page for an example and blank menaje de casa.

Q. I am a Mexican Citizen moving back to Mexico from the USA, do I need any special documentation in order to pursue my move?
A. Yes, you will need to obtain a letter of repatriation through your local Mexican consulate office.

Q. Where do you cross the border?
A. We generally cross the border in Laredo, TX. Laredo is the location of our US warehouse, as well as our customs broker’s office. Note, we sometimes cross elsewhere along the US/MX border if necessitated by convenience, efficiency or travel conditions.

Q. Do I need an FM3? Will you handle this for me?
A. An FM3 is a legal permit, issued by the Mexican consulate, to live and work in Mexico. With an FM3 you are permitted to import used household goods from the US without incurring a duty at the border. We can locate your nearest consulate for you, and advise you during the process, but obtaining an FM3 entails legal processes and documentation that ultimately must be arranged by you.

Q. Do you provide packing services?
A. Yes, we provide packing services at an extra charge. Our rates, which vary depending on the weight, volume, and delicacy of your goods, are set at the industry standard. We also use industry standard packing supplies, such as cardboard boxes, cotton wrap, plastic wrap, straps, and dollies.

Q. Can I bring new items?
A. Yes, you can bring new items across the border. Note, many new “high end” items, such as electronics and furniture, are subject to duties at the border. Please ask our associates for more information regarding the importation of new items.

Q. How long will it take?
A. Our average load is delivered 7-10 days after pickup. However, there is no guaranteed delivery time/date. When transporting goods across an international border patience is often required. We offer a date for delivery that is tentative only and not binding. This date should give you a good idea of when your items will arrive, but should be considered flexible. This is because it is impossible to foresee some of the potential delays that can occur. An inaccurate Menaje de Casa, a red-light at the border, weather changes across vast distances, flat tires, slow inspections—all can result in delays. We commit to keeping you informed along the way, step by step, so that you can effectively plan the reception of your load, but we cannot guarantee the specific time or date your load will arrive.

Q. Will I have to pay taxes?
Household goods are tax free with FM2 or FM3 status. New and business related items are charged a 17% to 27% importation tax based on the value of your goods.  Motorized transportation such as motorcycles and scooters are charged a $150 broker fee plus a 27% importation tax.