Does anyone know how far it is from Belize City to this new Wal-Mart over the border in Mexico? Has anyone been there? If anyone is going would you look to see if they have Futons??

It's an hour and a half to the border from Belize City, border crossing the time varies and ten minutes into Chetumal. Don't know about any new Walmart but you can find futons at Mirab on the Western Highway or at least they did carry them.

Also Graniels in San Pedro make/sell futons.

Thanks, I am looking for something that isn't to expensive.

Don't forget to add 70% import duty when bringing in from Mexico.

Where did you get that rate? It's not the official rate is it?

Hummingbird has really pretty futons

If its the same "Walmart" next to the mall, you are better off at Sam's in Chetumal. Mirab has great futons-one style with springs and very comfortable and lots easier than shopping in Chet.

Dave's furniture World used to have inexpensive futons, or you can have the mennonites make you one.

No, it was an exaggeration to make the point that it may not be cheaper to save a few bucks in mexico for large items.

What do you think the rate is??

any idea on prices?

Any idea on prices?? That would be easier.. Is that right there on the island?

Is that in Belize City?

From what I've read here, the rate varies based on the tightness of underwear of the particular customs agent you happen across.

Heres the official guide:
http://www.customs.gov.bz/download/customsexcise_duties.pdf

A lot of the rates were revised last month.

Do you also still need a permit to import wood furniture??

I brought in about $400 US in small appliances and such a few weeks ago. I expected the duties and taxes to come to about 30%. It was closer to 50%. They seemed pleasant and smiled while he told me that he gave me a "deal". Not sure about the tightness of his underwear. They did go through every bag and seemed just a little surprised that everything was about as I stated.

Oh, yes this was through the airport at Belize City.

Remember you don't only pay import duty. Once the duty is assessed there is the environmental tax of 2% (compounded) and then the 10% gst is compounded on that too.

I might have the amounts reversed but even duty free items are still subjected to environmental tax and GST.

Yes, pretty sure you do.

Amanda, Of course you are correct and I figured that. I was thinking those household items where 20% tax then plus the GST and Environmental Tax. Hence 32%. Evidently I was incorrect in the 20% Duty??? No shipping charge to tack on so the duty must be more.

Most of my belongings have been purchased locally and I'm happy to give them my business. The items I've been bringing in are things that I have trouble finding or the quality isn't quite what I wanted. At any rate I'm not complaining just adding a little info to the conversation.


Be interesting to see what it comes out to on my next trip.