US Customs Fees

Stu Gatz

Stu Gatz

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The question is intended to be simple with a simple answer. However, I realize that it may become complicated.

Does US Customs have a standard rate for the importation of products such as knives?

Specifically - I plan to buy some knives from Italy. I do not expect a seizure issue in that they are not autos, etc...

What should I expect to pay in customs fees/tariffs?

Any info is appreciated in advance. All the very best regards,

Stuart
 
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Thanks for the move Coug. I didn't realize that this should go in the GB&U...

That's a BIG A**** cat BTW.
 
Stu Gatz said:
Does US Customs have a standard rate for the importation of products such as knives?

Specifically - I plan to buy some knives from Italy. I do not expect a seizure issue in that they are not autos, etc...

What should I expect to pay in customs fees/tariffs?
Click to expand...

Hi Stuart,

This may be useful to your search: http://www.itintl.com/howto/US_Import_Tariff.php

Look at Section 15 and chapter 82, cutlery 8211 in http://hotdocs.usitc.gov/docs/tata/hts/bychapter/0702C82.pdf

A general answer to your question will be found when you examine the Harmonized Tariff Schedule for your commodity and country of origin.

US Customs can be a beast. You can request a formal ruling to be certain, in advance, of the costs involved. Or, you can hire a customs broker for a consult. Or you can take a head long run at it yourself (what I do).

There is usually a floor under which you pay no duty if your import is minor.

US Customs will be the final decider as to what category your import falls into in order to apply the uniform tariff.

Best of luck and I really hope that you meet with success in this. I have had a blast importing.

oregon
 
Thanks Oregon. If I'm reading the doc correctly it appears as if the average varies at about _ cents + 45% to 55% but that is in the 2 category. Do you know what the "2" category (on the far right) is in reference to?

Perhaps the "general" category would apply.

Thanks again.

Stuart
 
WOW!!

This issue appears to be very maze like. As I understand it, UPS and DHL are very "agressive" with international fees and customs tabulations... :rolleyes:

Still doing research though.
 
You have that right. A real maze.

The customs laws are older than the income tax system. Rember the Boston Tea Party pre American revolution? It was a result of a custom's issue. Archaic and Byzantine are words that come to mind when I look at the custom's laws.

I believe the right column is a penalty column if you are importing from a country on the shite list of countries the US doesn't favor. So if you are importing from North Korea you will probably be hit with the maximum customs duty.

Please keep me informed.

All the best,

oregon
 
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