Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2000/08/07
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]Bill, I've never had any problems with Customs returning to the U.S., with Leica or any other photo gear. They used to be on the lookout for new gear when it was generally cheaper to buy it overseas, especially in Asia. But the US tends to be the cheapest place to buy photo gear now, so Customs is more on the lookout for cahsmere suits, Roquefort cheese, and whatever else is on this week's watchlist (in addition to the usual no-no's, like smack, kiddie porn, or AK-47's). But since I'm the careful type, I've registered my gear with Customs, which proves that you left the U.S. with it, and are not bringing new stuff back in. Before you leave on a trip (I usually give myself some extra time at my departure airport), go to the Customs office and ask for the form used to register "Personal Effects Taken Abroad"---it works for anything with a serial number. List the items you want to register, including their serial numbers, have the Customs inspector at the desk stamp it or otherwise sign it, and keep it with your passport. You don't have to do it for every trip, so long as you hang on to that document. If you do buy some new equipment overseas, though, you're required to declare it on return, and you may have to pay duty on it if your total purchases exceed $400. Chuck Albertson Seattle, Wash. - ----- Original Message ----- From: "Bill Satterfield" <cwsat@cyberhighway.net> To: <leica-users@mejac.palo-alto.ca.us> Sent: Monday, August 07, 2000 1:09 PM Subject: [Leica] U.S. Customs > Have any of you had any trouble with customs when returning with the > Leica equipment you took with you. I understand they have a form but my > travel agent said she had never been questioned. She has been to Europe > 4 times. > >