Tips to Import of Boats
Whether you’re importación de embarcaciones or looking to sell an existing vessel, there are many things to consider. Taking a few extra steps can make the process easier, faster and cheaper.
First and foremost, you need to prepare your shipper’s documents. Contact the embassy of the country you’re shipping to and get all the information you need.
Get a Customs Broker
Customs brokers act as liaisons between the government and import/export firms, managing the logistics of moving products across borders. Their duties include filing customs entries, calculating and paying duties and taxes, and communicating with Customs and Border Protection (CBP) about shipments.
Licensed customs brokers keep abreast of changing laws covering international trade. They also navigate the complex nature of international trade and maintain a good relationship with clients to ensure their needs are met timely and accurately.
In light of changes to CBP’s operational structure and growing technological capabilities, the NPRM seeks to modernize customs broker regulations and clarify existing regulations. The elimination of district permits and expansion of the scope of activities allowed under a national permit will allow brokers to operate more easily across the United States’ customs territory. This will enable them to focus on a single nationally permitted office to ensure responsible supervision and control is maintained. This will help them maintain optimal customs compliance in a highly automated environment, and will better serve the interests of the U.S.
Obtain a Temporary Import Permit (TIP)
One of the most important things to remember when importing your boat is that it needs to be registered in the country where it was bought. This is so that Mexico can monitor the status of the vehicle and ensure it is being used within the limits of the law.
The best way to do this is to obtain a Temporary Import Permit (TIP) before you leave for Mexico. You can apply for a TIP online or at Banjercito locations near most border crossings as well as Mexican consulates.
When applying for the TIP, you will be asked to sign a declaration. This is to confirm that you are not an illegal immigrant and have no intentions of attempting to stay in Mexico unlawfully.
When you get your TIP, you will receive an email and be handed a copy of the permit in paper form. Keep these printed copies safe and carry them with you while driving in Mexico.
Check the Tariff Rates
When importing boats into the United States, it is important to be aware of all import duties and taxes that may apply. These include tariffs, customs fees, and other assessments.
The US Department of Commerce maintains a Tariff Database that can help you determine the correct duty rate for a particular product. However, it is best to do your own research before making any decisions about the amount of customs duty that will be paid.
Currently, the EU imposes an extra 25% duty on imported US-made boats and other marine products. These tariffs were introduced in retaliation for US trade tariffs on steel and aluminum.
While these tariffs do not apply to US-made boats that are purely manufactured in the United States, they can have a significant impact on the European market for US-origin yachts and other marine products. This can have a direct impact on sales in Europe, including from boat dealers and consumers looking to purchase their next luxury vessel.
Prepare Your Documents
When you are importing a boat, it is important to prepare the necessary documents. This includes obtaining a bill of sale for each party involved in the transaction and a boat transfer certificate to ensure the new owner is registered.
The boat should also have proof of insurance. Check with your customs broker or forwarder to find out if they offer marine shipping insurance.
Once you have the proper documentation, the process can go much smoother. This will also reduce your risk of paying unnecessary taxes and duties.
It is a good idea to measure the boat carefully, including its width, height and length. This will help you to determine the cost of transporting the boat.
