What items should I declare?


What items should I declare? You must declare all items you purchased and are carrying with you upon return to the United States, including gifts for other people as well as items you bought for yourself. This includes duty-free items purchased in foreign countries, as well as any merchandise you intend to sell or use in your business.


Do I have to declare clothes I bought at customs?

Travelers should declare all items being brought from abroad that will remain in the United States. This includes gifts and duty-free purchases. Goods purchased in a duty-free shop are not automatically free of duty upon your return to the United States.


Do I have to declare personal jewelry?

Personal Jewelry is usually considered a personal item that is exempt from Customs Duty. So, when you come to the US with it, it won't cost you any money. Can you take jewelry on a plane carry on? Of course, if you're carrying very expensive jewelry, like watches, bracelets, necklaces, etc.


How much can I buy without declaring?

You might be surprised to learn that there is no limit on how much cash you can cross the border with. However, if you travel with more than $10,000 USD then you must declare it.


Why is it important to declare items?

The declaration form helps CBP assess whether you present a safety or national security threat based on the items you are carrying. You must fill out the form accurately and thoroughly.


What items need to be declared?

How the U.S. Customs Service Works
  • Anything you bought (including from duty-free shops or on a ship or airplane)
  • Anything you inherited or received as a gift (you'll have to estimate the fair market price of the gift)
  • Anything you brought home for a friend.
  • Anything you plan to use or sell in your business.


Do I have to declare snacks?

You must declare all food products. If you fail to declare food products, you could face up to $10,000 in fines and penalties. If you declare all agricultural products you are bringing with you, you won't be charged any penalties, even if an inspector determines that they can't enter the country.


What do you have to declare at airport?

You must declare all items you purchased and are carrying with you upon return to the United States, including gifts for other people as well as items you bought for yourself. This includes duty-free items purchased in foreign countries, as well as any merchandise you intend to sell or use in your business.


Should I declare everything at customs?

Merchandise is declared to CBP. If you do not declare something that should have been declared, you risk forfeiting the item. If in doubt, declare it. You are returning from an overseas stay of at least 48 hours.