Can You Trailer a Car into Mexico? What You Need to Know

When it comes to bringing a vehicle into Mexico, the rules can be a bit complex. One common question is whether you can trailer a car into the country. The short answer is that you can, but there are some important caveats to be aware of.

Temporary Import Permits (TIPs)

If you plan to drive your vehicle outside of the designated “Free Zones” in Mexico, you will need to obtain a Temporary Import Permit (TIP) for your vehicle. This permit allows you to temporarily import your foreign-plated vehicle into Mexico for a defined period of time.

The Free Zones in Mexico include the area within 25km of the land border, the entire Baja California peninsula, a defined area in the northern state of Sonora, and the southern state of Quintana Roo. If you intend to drive your vehicle beyond these zones, you must have a TIP to avoid fines and potential confiscation of your vehicle.

Trailers and the TIP

When it comes to trailers, the rules are a bit more complicated. According to the information gathered, a trailer does not count as a vehicle for the purposes of the TIP. This means that you cannot simply add a trailer to your vehicle’s TIP.

Separate Permit for Trailers

Instead, you will need to obtain a separate 10-year permit for the trailer. This permit is distinct from the 6-month TIP for the vehicle itself. The trailer permit fee is around $644 pesos.

It’s important to note that if you try to cover both the vehicle and trailer under a single 180-day TIP, you may face difficulties at the border. The authorities may not accept this arrangement, and you could risk having your trailer confiscated or facing other penalties.

Cargo and Utility Trailers

The good news is that you can add certain types of trailers to your vehicle’s TIP, such as cargo or utility trailers. However, RV-style trailers or campers will require a separate permit.

It’s crucial to ensure that you have the proper documentation and permits for both your vehicle and any trailers you plan to bring into Mexico. Failure to do so could result in fines, confiscation, or even being turned away at the border.