Thanks for the help
 

I know posting a reply this late will probably not get to everyone who helped or respnded, but I do appeciate all the advice.
I am starting my way back towards the states tomorrow and of course the first thing is to try to handle this crossings myself with no handlers, the other will be be as prepared as I can be understanding they could take some time. Also looking at other border crossings (less frequented) maybe a way to go. It is too bad for all the beauty and adventure down here that it all comes with the same amount danger and hassle.....
Anyway I will be posting as I go, at freedomthrumovement.blogspot.com and also one question if anyone reads this is if you do do the borders yourself without handlers does this mean you have to get in that long line behind all the trucks and wait, or can you just drive to the head of the line, park, and then start the process with migration and then customs, in that order....... thanks again

Always ride past all the trucks, cars, etc and park in front of the immigration/aduana offices.

In fact, when you are on a motorcycle, always ride past *any* line of vehicles. Use the opposing lane, the space between cars, the shoulder, whatever. Of course, be careful. The rule in Mexico, Central America, and California: Motorcycles go first (if they can get there).

Jeff

Guatemala, for bike permit, which I was told was good for all of C.A. $243 Its not,( I gave him $250, he never did give the $7 in change) The handling fee, there were 3 guys watching the bike and three doing other stuff, he told me about $50, and that wasn't with paying the watchers, they wanted $20, I gave them $10 and he was pissed about that. $10 probably in other miscallaneous charges, spraying the bike, stamping passport, copies of everything, paying to cancel permit of Mexico. Total for entry to Gautamala, about $320. Total wait time, about 5 hours!

I don't think it cost me more than $50 in fees to bring a bike into Guatemala.

I'm happy to pay a handler $5 or so if he speeds the process. Keep in mind $10 is big money in Guatemala. You would have to shoot me....twice...to get $320.