Step 2: Select your port of entry
How quickly you clear U.S. customs can simply depend on the number of vehicles ahead of you. If you have flexibility, you may want to check the wait times of the ports of entry available for your return. Here are two convenient tools to help you plan which port of entry to select:
Step 3: Know what you’re bringing back
Aside from the illegal things, there are other personal items that US Customs has restrictions or limits to the importation into the United States. If you don’t want to slow down your return to the United States, you should be familiar with this list and be prepared.
For starters, you should know the full list of prohibited and restricted items – avoid these. For a quick summary, here are some common things to be prepared for:
- Prescription drugs: If you have prescription drugs with you, they must be FDA-approved for you to import them into the United States. You should have your prescription on hand to prove the validity of your medications if asked.
- Money or Monetary Instruments: Money that you have on hand, travelers’ checks, bank drafts, cashiers’ checks, or personal checks payable to you, should not exceed $10,000. If you have more than $10,000 of any of these you must declare it.
- Vehicle registration: US Customs will want to know if your car originated in the United States. To establish US origin, you will be required to provide a valid vehicle registration.
Pro-Tip:
If you have high-value items you brought with you (purchased in the US), you should carry proof of purchase. The typical items tourists bring are laptop computers and mobile phones. The best method is a receipt or a bill of sale.
However, since you likely don’t still have either of those, you can also register the items with Customs before leaving the US. Note, that this is not a common issue for travelers. However, if there is a question of ownership, failure to produce proof of purchase or ownership might force you to pay import duties.
Step 4: Know your import duties and exemptions
Everyone returning from Mexico will be required to complete a CBP Declaration Form 6059B. This form will itemize all the things you purchased (merchandise and agricultural products) while you were traveling in Mexico.
You will have a few different options to complete this form:
- Paper form: The form can be downloaded above or you can get one at the port of entry.
- Global Entry online form: To complete your CBP Declarations online go to the Global Entry kiosk. (Note: only preapproved Global Entry members are allowed to use these kiosks.)
- Automated passport online form: You can complete the form online at an Automated Passport Control kiosk.
Pro-Tip:
Designate an envelope or section of your bag or luggage to store all the purchase receipts for everything you purchased during your trip to Mexico. Keep these handy as you go through US Customs. If necessary, the CBP officer will calculate the duties for your newly acquired goods.
What to know about paying duties
Not everything you purchase in Mexico will be subject to import duties. Certain personal items are exempt. Generally speaking, the personal exemption allows you to bring in goods totaling $200, $800, or $1600 depending on the countries you visit. Mexico falls into the $800 category, however, many exceptions may apply.
A duty-free exception may apply if:
- The merchandise imported is intended for personal or household use.
- The items are intended as gifts.
- Merchandise is in your possession as you’re returning to the United States.
- You are returning from an overseas stay of at least 48 hours.
- You have not used all of your exemptions in the past 30 days.
Step 3: Have your documents ready
Lastly, before you enter US customs you want to make sure you have all the proper documentation. Many of these documents you should have had with you for the duration of your visit. Now, it’s time to get them out and be prepared to present them when requested. Below is a list of the documents that should be available:
- Passport
- Driver’s license
- Passport card
- Green card
- Vehicle registration
Additionally, as a precaution, you should have these items with you as well:
- Prescriptions for any medications you brought with you to Mexico.
- Proof of purchase or bill of sale for merchandise purchased in Mexico
- Copies of things like your SSN and birth certificates
The bottom line
After your Mexican vacation, you’re probably excited to return to the United States and the comfort of your own home. Make sure you understand what is required to clear US customs and make returning to the United States less of a hassle. If you review these tips, follow the rules, and listen to the instructions being provided by your customs agent, you should have a smooth re-entry experience.
