Can I take a laptop across the border?

Question

I am in Canada going to the US next week and I will be there for about 5 days. I would like to take my laptop with me but I didn't know if that was allowed or not. I have heard yes you can and no you can't from many people. Does anyone know for sure?

Answer 1

Yes, you can take your laptop to both the US and to Mexico without any problem.  There are some additional reviews you will have to go at the airport, in both ends, but they are not complicated.

If the laptop looks too new or if you are transporting it on its box and or with original manual and CDs, etc. customs might think you are planning to imported and might or not try to charge you taxes, but is highly unlikely since you will be under the tax-free limit.

Good luck

Answer 2

I have taken my laptop back and forth across the Canadian/us border numerous times also take it with me each time I go from us to Mexico.  I don't know anywhere in north or south America where you cant take your laptop.

Answer 3

Of course and your lugagge too

Answer 4

Brought mine, no problem.  just be sure it does not look brand new, like something you are bringing in to sell.  Probably won't even be asked about it.

Answer 5

It is a common mistake to think that customs officials in Mexico will make you pay a tax for bringing your laptop to Mexico, you have the right to carry ONE computer equipment (brand new or used) in and out of Mexico without any problem, I'll list the other things you can carry with you:

To avoid paying taxes, this is the list of goods that you can bring to Mexico…Personal use goods, clothes, including a bride set, shoes, personal cleaning goods, that for its quantity may not be sold in Mexico, 2 cameras and accessories, 12 film rolls or video tapes, any pictures or videos, 2 cell phones or beepers, a typewriter, an electronic agenda, a laptop, notebook or Omni book, a port6able copy machine or printer, 2 sets of sporting equipment (tennis, golf, scuba diving) a portable radio, mp3, mp4 device, one portable DVD placer, a set of portable speakers, 5 laser discs, 10 DVD discs, 30 CDs or cassettes, 5 USB memory stick, books or magazines that for the quantity may not be sold, 5 toys, a video game console, any medical check up equipment (blood pressure, diabetes) any prescribed medicine (must show prescription, in case of controlled substances) 1 set of binoculars, 1 telescope, one musical instrument, a camping tent, up to three surf tables, up to four fishing rods, with accessories, baby care goods that for the quantity may not be sold, a set of tools,

If you are over 18 you can also bring up to 20 packs of cigarettes, 25 cigars or 200 grams of chewing tobacco, three liters of alcoholic beverages, and six of wine.

Special needs, handicapped people can bring any device that helps with the development of their activities.

You can bring up to 2 dogs or cats, accessories, but you have to request an animal permit to the SAGARPA which controls animals and flora in Mexico.