www.CostaRicaTicas.com

This is an RFI about a reverse RFM (sort of) I just got. A favorita of mine wants me to bring her down a laptop in April. At first I thought...this chicks got a lot of nerve..then she clarified that she will send $ via WU, select from what is available at WM,BB, or OM, and that I bring it down.

I have never had customs bat an eye at me as I've entered CR...anything like this ever happen to any brother here?... I will be impressed if she actually comes through and sends the $. I gave her until ten days prior to my departure date to send everything I need to do the deal.

Cheers,
CH

Sounds ok to me I think. Have her check on the websites what laptop she wants, convert the funds and send it over. I think if you receive the funds from her, you should be fine. I'd be worried if it turns into "I'll give you the money when you're down here"...then I'd probably pass.

CLN..in the last few minutes, this has evolved into..."I don't like those brands of laptops..." Last time I checked, I didn't think that HP or Dell sucked too bad..but then again, I am soooo last century...

This might devolve into an "OK, you know what...forget about everything...." I hate to do that thought..she is a real cutie, but a bit yo*g and impatient...
CH

I just brought two laptops through customs with no problem. I just made sure they were in two different bags. One in backpack...one in a carry on bag. I would not bring a "new laptop" in the factory packed box or unopened box.

Noted..Thanks Rascal..
CH

You bring it in the box you are busted. Trust me on that. I got nailed bringing crap in last trip and I have a new stamp in my passport that says I can't bring anything in next time without paying tax on it. Its valid for 6 months then I can bring stuff in again. I could have walked away without the stamp but the dick at customs wanted a bribe and I said no.

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[url=http://www.amishrakefight.org/gfy/]

If I have the numbers correct, you are allowed a $500 personal exemption every 6 months.

But a new (boxed) laptop would be valued at more than that, especially in the eyes of some random Customs guy.

Does that mean that you have to do CR without the wolf blanket?

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It's not the size of the wand that put the rabbit in the hat, it's the magic in it!!!

Sadly yes. However for TJ I am shipping my stuff to San Diego so I'll have the blanket and maybe bring my bullhorns!

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[url=http://www.amishrakefight.org/gfy/]

The $500 personal exemption is correct. You don't want that stamp in your passport, or to be on their radar.

Have a receipt that says you paid no more than $500. I have a technique for bringing in laptops and selling them here. I have brought in appliances and they will ask me, and I tell them what it is. They have never required me to register any of my merchandise.

I also bring in unlocked cell phones, but only a few at a time, so I am not questioned about it.

IF, and I repeat, IF she sends you the money take it down without the packaging as if it was yours. There will be no customs hassle.

What will actually happen is the "I will pay you when you get down here" thing.
In which case no laptop for the Tica.

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It is cheaper to pay now and get it over with.
It is also easier to get them to leave.

I am going to buy myself a new cel phone. One of the bartenders at the SL loves my old phone and wants me to give it to her. As I am in love (little l, folks) with her, I plan on giving it to her. So if I get a new phone for myself and bring both phones with me will I be running a risk of getting hassled by customs?

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Man I'm living life like a great white shark swimming with minnows! It's all about panocha, great scotch, fine cigars, loud-ass rock music and speed, speed, speed - plus spending as much time as possible in paradise on earth, Costa Rica!

No risk.

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It is cheaper to pay now and get it over with.
It is also easier to get them to leave.

My understanding of the rules is if the equipment, gear, or device is for personal use then it is customs tax free. Even if is in a box and you claim it as personal use there should not be a problem.

Now if you hav 10 or 20 units that is another story. It suggests you are importing items for sales and not for personal use.

Use your heads (the big one) and you should be OK

Orange, I am very surprised at your restrictions and suspect there is more to the story. MHO. No need to share or flame me. Thank you,

Thanks fellas...I really don't expect her to come through.
CH