As some of you know from previous posts, I'm planning a move to the DR sometime in the next 12-18 months if all goes as planned.
I use an electric wheelchair, and having a modified van for my wheelchair is essential to my freedom. From my research, I know unicorns are more common on the island than wheelchair vans.
So, I have two choices:
1) Buy a Toyota Sienna, have it modified here, wait the required 12 months, and import it after my move.
2) Buy a used Toyota HiAce (or something like it) once I'm over there, then find a local body shop to install a ramp and tie-down system imported from the U.S.
I'm aware of the import rules. I know the vehicle must be 6 cylinders or less, owned in my name for at least 12 months, and be less than 5 years old.
The primary benefit of #1 would be quality (the van conversions here in the U.S. are top notch.) The risk is unknown customs fees on a minivan with such modifications.
The benefit of #2 would be maintainability, and maybe price. It should be easy to get repairs locally if that's where the original work was done. The risk is in the communication barrier (Yo s? un poco de espa?ol, pero s?lo un poco), and possibly choosing a bad shop that does shoddy work.
Any thoughts? Advice is appreciated.
I use an electric wheelchair, and having a modified van for my wheelchair is essential to my freedom. From my research, I know unicorns are more common on the island than wheelchair vans.
So, I have two choices:
1) Buy a Toyota Sienna, have it modified here, wait the required 12 months, and import it after my move.
2) Buy a used Toyota HiAce (or something like it) once I'm over there, then find a local body shop to install a ramp and tie-down system imported from the U.S.
I'm aware of the import rules. I know the vehicle must be 6 cylinders or less, owned in my name for at least 12 months, and be less than 5 years old.
The primary benefit of #1 would be quality (the van conversions here in the U.S. are top notch.) The risk is unknown customs fees on a minivan with such modifications.
The benefit of #2 would be maintainability, and maybe price. It should be easy to get repairs locally if that's where the original work was done. The risk is in the communication barrier (Yo s? un poco de espa?ol, pero s?lo un poco), and possibly choosing a bad shop that does shoddy work.
Any thoughts? Advice is appreciated.