Here’s what you need to know about bringing your overseas shopping haul through U.S. Customs.
With tariffs on imports from nearly every country making headlines, some savvy travelers are turning their trips abroad into shopping expeditions; that designer bag looks a lot more attractive at Paris prices.
But before you go wild with the credit card, know there are rules—lots of them—governing what you can bring home and what it’ll cost you. Here’s how to maximize your shopping bang without getting stung at customs.
Do I have to pay tariffs on stuff I buy abroad?
Generally, no. Personal exemptions exist for items you bring back for your own use. Because you’re not buying and selling commercially, your purchases typically aren’t considered imports, according to Customs and Border Protection. That said, “personal use” has its limits.
What’s the dollar limit before fees kick in?
The magic number is $800: If you’ve been outside the U.S. for more than 48 hours, you can bring back up to $800 worth of goods duty-free. Above that, expect a flat duty rate of at least 3% on the next $1,000 in purchases. Beyond $1,800, rates vary by product and country of origin. (One exception: fine art is always duty-free, no matter the price.)
Traveling with family? You can combine your individual $800 exemptions. But you can only claim the exemption once every 31 days—so if you used a $300 exemption after a trip to Japan and then bought $500 worth of goods in England two weeks later, you’re out of luck on the second trip.
What if I’m just popping across the border for the day?
That 48-hour rule matters. A quick jaunt to Montréal to hit up SSENSE’s flagship store? Your exemption drops to just $200.
Do I have to declare purchases under $800?
Yes. Always declare everything. Failing to do so can cost you your Global Entry membership, result in fines, or mean forfeiting the item entirely. Not worth the risk.
Can I ship my purchases home to avoid the hassle?
Nice try. The exemption limits apply only to items you physically carry with you. For new personal items shipped back to the U.S., the limit is just $200—anything above that, and the shipping carrier will assess duties. You can mail gifts to friends and family duty-free, but only up to $100 per day per recipient.
The one exception: American-made items you already own can be mailed back without tax. But international shipping is pricey, so factor that into your calculations.
How do I get a VAT refund?
More than 170 countries charge a value-added tax, which can add 15–25% to your purchase price. The good news: tourists can often claim this back. Retailers will fill out refund paperwork, which you’ll need to validate before leaving the country (usually at a dedicated airport office). Leave plenty of time, bring your passport when you shop, and know that processing services will take a cut.
The savings can be substantial. Those Hermès sandals priced at €610 in Paris retail for $800 in the U.S. Factor in a 20% VAT refund, and you’re looking at a pretty nice discount.
What about duty-free shops?
Duty-free stores skip the local VAT and duty taxes—but that doesn’t mean you’re off the hook with U.S. Customs. If your total purchases exceed your $800 personal exemption, you’ll still owe duty on the overage. And some items have their own limits: you can typically bring back only one liter of alcohol duty-free, regardless of whether you’ve hit the $800 threshold.
Can I just wear my new clothes home and pretend they’re old?
Customs officers have seen every trick. Used items are typically duty-free only if they’re more than a year old. Removing the tags and wearing that new cashmere sweater on the plane doesn’t make it “used” in the eyes of CBP.
Twist’s Take: Shopping abroad can mean real savings—but only if you understand the rules: declare everything, claim your VAT refunds, and keep your receipts organized.