An automobile manufactured abroad might not be in compliance with U.S. safety or emission standards. Therefore, you will be required to produce the foreign manufacturer's statements verifying the vehicle conforms to U.S. safety and emission control standards.

Vehicles 25 years old or less must comply with U.S. motor vehicle safety standards that were in effect when the vehicles were manufactured. Passenger cards manufactured after Sept. 1, 1973, also must meet bumper standards.

Automobiles 21 years or older - from the time of manufacture or purchase to the time of importation - are exempt from emission requirements, as are those owned by importers facing circumstances deemed extraordinary or a hardship. For the latter, vehicles must be essential for basic living.

If your vehicle was manufactured in 1974 or later and driven in a country without unleaded gasoline, you will be required to have the vehicle's oxygen sensor and/or catalytic converter replaced.

If you are importing a vehicle in need of modifications to comply with U.S. safety and bumper standards, you must enter into a contract with a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) registered importer (RI), an automotive business that will modify your vehicle upon your arrival in the States. Lists of RI's are available from the DOT. Cars imported in this manner must enter under a DOT bond equal to 150% of the vehicle's dutiable value. (If your vehicle requires any modifications, a bond also might be required by customs that is equal to your vehicle's value.)

Automobiles not conforming to U.S. emission standards must be imported through an independent commercial importer (ICI) - an automotive business certified by the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that will bring your vehicle into compliance. Lists of ICIs are available from the EPA. Vehicles must meet EPA requirements within 120 days of their arrival.

If your vehicle requires modifications related to safety, bumper and emission standards, you will need to acquire services from both an RI and ICI. You might be able to enter into a contract with an RI or ICI that, in turn, can contract out for services from the other at the conclusion of its work. Also, some automotive businesses do safety, bumper and emission modifications.

All people importing vehicles must fill out DOT Form HS-7 indicating whether their car meets safety and bumper standards, and EPA Form 3520-1 indicating whether their car meets emission requirements. People whose cars need modifications also must furnish a copy of their contract with an RI and/or ICI, in addition to applicable bonds, to customs at the port of entry. Automobiles are cleared at the first port of entry unless you arrange for a freight forwarder abroad to have your vehicle sent to a customs port more convenient to you.

Since safety and emission requirements sometimes change over the years, it is recommended that you contact one of the following agencies for the most up-to-date regulations that apply to your vehicle.

For a free copy of the "Instruction Handbook for Complying with Regulations of Imported Vehicles," information on safety or bumper standards, or a list of RI's, contact:

U.S. Department of Transportation
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Office of Vehicle Safety Compliance, NSA-32
400 Seventh St. S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20590, U.S.A.
http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/rules/import

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Hotline:
Phone: (800) 424-9393
Fax: (202) 366-1024

For information on emission control standards for imported vehicles or a list of ICIs, contact:

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Manufacturers Operations Division (6405-J)
Investigation/Imports Section
501 Third St. N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20001, U.S.A.
Phone: (202) 564- 9240

EPA Information Hotline:
(202) 564-9660 (Request the auto. imports facts manual)
Fax: (202) 565-2057
Fax: (202) 564-9596

Some vehicles are prohibited from importation into the United States because of the vehicles themselves or the country from which they originated. (See Page ... under "Merchandise originating in..." for information on the latter.) For other vehicles, it might be cost-prohibitive to bring them into compliance with safety and emission standards. Be sure to check with U.S. government agencies regarding your vehicle's importation status before you attempt to import it.

Here are some other important tips on clearing a vehicle through customs:

• The U.S. Department of Agriculture requires that all imported vehicles be free from foreign soil. Consequently, you must have your car or truck steam-sprayed or cleaned thoroughly before shipping it.

  U.S.D.A.
  Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
  4700 River Road
  Riverdale, MD 20737 U.S.A.
  Phone: (301) 734-8645
  Phone: (301) 734-4327

• Do not ship personal belongings in your vehicle.

• The duty for a new or used foreign-made vehicle imported into the United States is based on the price paid or the invoice price. Contact a local customs office for the current duty rate. Most Canadian-made vehicles are duty-free.

• A returning U.S. resident (one returning from travel, work or study) may apply his or her $400 customs exemption - as well as the exemptions of accompanying family members - toward the vehicle's value if it meets the following requirements:
  • The vehicle accompanies you on your return to the States
  • It is imported for personal use.
  • It was purchased during your stay outside the United States.

  After this exemption has been applied, the next $1,000 of the vehicle's value is dutiable at a flat rate of 10%, with the remainder dutiable at the regular rate.

• You are entitled to import a foreign-made car free of duty if you are:
  • A U.S. citizen employed abroad, or a government employee returning from temporary duty or on voluntary leave. These citizens may import a foreign-made car free of duty provided they claim nonresident status, enter the United States for a short visit only and export the vehicle when they leave the States.

  • A civilian or military employee of the U.S. government returning to the United States at the end of an assignment of 140 days or more. These citizens may include a conforming vehicle among their duty-free personal and household goods, provided the vehicle was purchased abroad and was in the owner's possession prior to his or her departure for the States. Navy personnel serving aboard a U.S. vessel may be entitled to the free-entry exemption after an intended overseas deployment of at least 120 days.

  • A nonresident with a vehicle designated for personal use and imported in conjunction with the owner's arrival. Such automobiles conforming to U.S. standards may remain in the States indefinitely, but are dutiable if sold within one year of importation. This duty must be paid before the sale is completed. Nonconforming vehicles may not be sold in the United States. They are crushed, confiscated or exported to another country.

  • A nonresident importing a vehicle for a temporary stay in the United States for purposes other than personal, such as racing, repairs or as a sample for taking orders. These cars are subject to specific customs regulations. Check with a customs office for these regulations, as well as guidelines pertaining to unusual situations.

    U.S. Customs Service
    1300 Pennsylvania Ave. N.W.
    Washington, D.C. 20229 U.S.A.
    http://www.customs.ustreas.gov/imp-exp2/informal/car.htm
    (Titled: "Importing A Car)
    Phone: (202) 354-1000
    Phone: (202) 927-6724
    Phone: (202) 927-1000

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Federal Tax
Some imported automobiles are subject to the "Gas Guzzler Tax" stipulated in Section 4064 of the Internal Revenue Code. Liability for the tax is the responsibility of the individual importing the vehicle, and the tax rate is determined by the EPA's fuel economy rating for your type of vehicle. (This rating might differ from the one cited by the manufacturer.) In addition, before registering and titling your vehicle, many states require proof you have paid the "Gas Guzzler Tax" if it applies to you.

For more information on the "Gas Guzzler Tax," contact:

Internal Revenue Service
Room 5314
CC:DOM:P&SI:B-8
1111 Constitution Ave. N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20224, U.S.A.
http://www.irs.ustreas.gov/prod/forms_pubs/pubs.html


IRS Publication 510
Excise Taxes
Phone: (202) 622-3130
Fax: (202) 622-4537

The following Internal Revenue Service (IRS) publications provide information on the "Gas Guzzler Tax" and fuel economy ratings: Section 4064 of the Internal Revenue Code; Publication 510, "Excise Taxes"; Revenue Procedure 86-9 and 1986-1 Cumulative Bulletin 530; Revenue Procedure 87-10; and Revenue Ruling 86-20 and 1986-1 Cumulative Bulletin 319.

It should be evident from the foregoing information that importing a vehicle is difficult. The DOT and EPA should be contacted before you attempt to bring your vehicle into the United States.

Consult your local automobile club or an international automobile organization about obtaining an International Registration Marker - a permit that must be displayed on all imported cars.

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Clearing Weapons
Generally speaking, firearms purchased in the United States and taken out of the country by a resident my be imported back into the country. However, it is the responsibility of the returning resident to provide a bill of sale or their commercial document indicating proof of possession or ownership. Customs Form 4455 or 4457, "Certificate of Registration," may be used for this purpose.

However, guns purchased outside the United States are subject to complicated clearance procedures and are very difficult to import. You will need to apply for a permit by filling out the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) Form 6, "Application and Permit for Importation of Firearms, Ammunition and Implements of War." Active military personnel need to use a special form. To receive a form, contact any ATF office or the main one at:

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms
650 Massachusetts Ave. N.W., Room 5300
Washington, D.C. 20226, U.S.A.
Phone: (202) 927-8320
Fax: (202) 927-2697

It is recommended that anyone considering the shipment of foreign-purchased guns into the states consult with a local U.S. consulate or embassy prior to departure.

Weapons, ammunition and other devices prohibited by the National Firearms Act will be denied entry unless specifically authorized by the ATF. Due to the risk of accidental explosion, UniGroup Worldwide UTS's policy stipulates that ammunition cannot be shipped with household goods.

Firearms manufactured before 1898 may be imported into the United States without difficulty. But make certain the gun is a genuine antique: replica firearms require authorization from the ATF to clear customs.

Weapons with fixed blades generally are permitted entry into the United States. However, souvenirs such as swords, camel whips, machetes and similar items capable of being used as weapons might be in violation of local and state laws.

According to U.S. Customs: "Knives designed for 'utilitarian use' such as household purposes, personal grooming, trade or professional employment, crafts or hobbies, hunting and fishing, and scouting activities are also permitted unrestricted entry, provided that the imported knife does not open automatically and is not a switchblade." However, a switchblade is allowed for one-handed people for their personal use.

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Importing Liquor
Alcoholic beverages included in your household goods shipment are subject to duty and tax. Moreover, with few exceptions, alcoholic beverages cannot be mailed and, therefore, will be seized when imported through the mail. You may however, import wines and other alcoholic beverages into the United States as part of your household goods shipment - pursuant to the laws of your state of residence.

Many states require a permit or receipt that must be presented to U.S. Customs officials upon importing alcoholic beverages. If a permit is required, you will need to secure it prior to your departure so you can have it ready to present to U.S. Customs officials. To expedite this process, you should write to your state's alcohol control board for information on how to petition for a permit. This should be done about 60 days prior to your move since the actual petition should be made at least 30 days before your shipment's departure.

It's important to find out your destination state's law on importing alcohol before you relocate. It might have restrictions or special taxes on liquor being imported.

Prior to departing for the States, compile an inventory of all alcoholic beverages you plan to import. This list should include the brand name, number of bottles, volume per bottle, alcoholic content and price for each item.

Please review the web site of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms for information on the personal importation of alcoholic beverages:
http://www.atf.treas.gov/alcohol/info/persimp.htm

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Bringing in Pets and Wildlife
Although many departments of the U.S. government share in monitoring the importation of pets and wildlife, the 1976 amendment to the Animal Welfare Act stipulates the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is responsible for establishing the standards for transporting, handling and treating imported animals.

The U.S. Public Health Service requires that all imported pets be examined for evidence of any disease that can be transmitted to humans, and the USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) requires that animals and birds - both domestic and wild - be free from any disease that could threaten our country's livestock and poultry industries.

It's important to note the United States restricts or prohibits the importation and exportation of animals and birds protected by the international treaty of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). For applicable restrictions and the documentation required for your animal's admittance into the States, contact:

U.S. Public Health Service
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Division of Quarantine (EQ3)
1600 Clifton Road N.E.
Atlanta, GA 30333, U.S.A.
Phone: (404) 639-8107
Fax: (404) 639-2599

For information about importing live animals or animal products, call the USDA APHIS information hotline at (301) 734-4952.

The transporting of any animal takes considerable planning by its owner. For example, you might be able to expedite the clearance procedure by writing to the veterinarian at the port of entry and notifying him or her of your pet's flight number and expected time of arrival. It's also a good idea to schedule your pet's arrival for a weekday when the personnel necessary to clear your pet are on duty.

Before attempting to import a pet, check with authorities from your state, country and municipal governments for any restrictions they might have in place.

Pet birds brought into the United States from foreign countries - other than Canada - are quarantined at the owner's expense for at least 30 days in a USDA-operated import facility. These USDA facilities are located in New York, Miami and Los Angeles. If you are arriving in the States by land from Mexico, you may have your bird quarantined in Mission, Texas.

Prior to accepting a bird for quarantine, the USDA requires payment of a fee for the cost of quarantine services. Since space at USDA quarantine facilities is limited, make a reservation for your bird prior to your arrival. (To reserve space, contact the USDA or a U.S. consulate or embassy, and ask for VS Form 17-23.)

You also will be required to present a health certificate signed - within 30 days of your bird's arrival in the United States - by a government veterinarian from the bird's country of origin, stating the bird has been examined, is free from disease and is being exported in compliance with laws of the origin nation. The certificate must be in English. For certain types of birds, particularly those protected by the CITES treaty, you might need a special permit from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

U.S.-origin birds out of the States for more than 60 days may be quarantined at the owner's home for 30 days if they meet the following conditions: They are accompanied by a U.S. veterinarian health certificate and a tattoo or number leg band for identification purposes, both received prior to departure from the States; are inspected at a USDA veterinarian inspection station at the first port of entry (any international airport); and haven't been in contact with poultry or other birds while outside the States. If your bird will arrive at a "limited port of entry," call the port veterinarian at least three days in advance to make arrangements for inspection.

At the port of entry, dogs and cats are examined to determine if they are free from diseases communicable to humans. A vaccination against rabies is not required for cats; however, dogs should be vaccinated for rabies at least 30 days prior to entry into the States. A valid rabies vaccination certificate signed by a licensed veterinarian must accompany the dog, identifying it and providing the dates of vaccination and vaccination expiration.

If the dog's rabies vaccination was administered less than one month before its arrival, the pet will be admitted into the country but must be placed in quarantine by the owner until the required 30 days have expired. A dog that has not been vaccinated may be admitted, provided the owner has it vaccinated within 10 days of arrival at the port of entry and confined for a subsequent 30 days. If importing puppies, check with the U.S. Public Health Service for special guidelines.

There are no public health restrictions on importing live turtles with a shell length of more than 4 inches. Although smaller turtles also may be imported, customs regulations limit their entry to one lot of fewer than seven live turtles or viable turtle eggs, or any combination of the two.

Monkeys, lemurs, baboons, chimpanzees and all other non-human primates cannot be imported. The only exceptions are primates imported for scientific, educational or exhibition purposes by an importer registered with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Game birds and animals - other than endangered or threatened species - may be imported for noncommercial use if accompanied by the necessary documentation, which might be required from the United States and origin country. To determine restrictions placed on importing wildlife or wildlife products, for clarification of the documentation required, and to request the publications "Facts About Federal Wildlife Laws" contact:

Division of Law Enforcement
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
4401 North Fairfax Dr. Room 520
Arlington, VA 22203-3247, U.S.A.

Phone: (703) 358-1949
Fax: (703) 358-2258

The following organization also offers information about importing wildlife and wildlife products:

TRAFFIC (U.S.A.) World Wildlife Fund
1250 24th St. N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20037, U.S.A.
Phone: (202) 293-4800
Fax: (202) 293-9211

For information about the importation of marine mammal products, contact:

Office of Protected Resources
National Marine Fisheries Services
1315 East-West Highway
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: (301) 713-2239
Fax: (301) 713-stet

Wildlife and wildlife products must enter or exit the United States at one of the following designated ports (unless specific permits allow otherwise or unless conditions exist that allow entry or exit at a Canadian or Mexican border port, or a special port): Atlanta; Baltimore; Boston; Chicago; Dallas; Honolulu; Los Angeles; Miami; Newark, N.J.; New Orleans; New York; Portland; San Francisco; and Seattle.

Live animals deemed harmful to the environment, people, animals or plants in the United States - including the fruit bat, mongoose, walking catfish and java sparrow - are prohibited from entry. This does not include domesticated dogs, cats or rabbits. Also, many states have strict prohibitions against the introduction of non-native wildlife.

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Importing Plants
Generally, any items of a biological nature - including plants, cuttings, seeds, vegetables and fruits - are subject to approval prior to importation into the United States. As a result, all plants, plant products, fruits and vegetables must be declared to customs and presented to a customs officer for inspection. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulates the importation of plants and plant products. All plants must be free of soil, sand and earth.

Arrangements must be made for delivery of plant materials to a USDA plant inspection station and, if necessary, delivery to the final destination. Inspection stations are located in Elizabeth, N.J.; El Paso, Texas; Honolulu; Houston; Los Angeles; Los Indies, Texas; Miami; New Orleans; New York City (John F. Kennedy International Airport); Nogales, Ariz.; Orlando, Fla.; San Diego; San Francisco; and Seattle. There are fees for inspection and labor in handling a shipment, as well as possibly a customs duty.

Be sure to secure permits for your plans if they are required and to label plant packages with the genus, species and variety of plants, preferably using scientific names. Also, if your plants will arrive at an inspection station without you, enclose a sheet of paper with your name, home address and permit number so the plants can be forwarded to you without delay.

You might want to consider mailing plants to an inspection station when possible to save on costs and avoid delays at your port of arrival. Mailing plants can improve their chances of survival.

To speed up plants' arrival at an inspection station, get a "priority passport" (a green and yellow mailing label) from the USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and affix it to plant packages. In addition, mail your plants early in the week to avoid delays on the weekend. Import duties, if any, will be collected at your local post office.

Some plant materials do not require permits and can be carried by you as personal baggage when you enter the States, at which point you should declare the plants to customs and have them inspected by a USDA inspector. Other plants are prohibited or restricted (The U.S. Endangered Species Act places numerous restrictions on the importation of endangered plants such as certain cycads, orchids and cacti.)

Check with APHIS' Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ) Import Permit Unit on the entry status of your types of plants. Some plants require permits from the origin country in addition to the United States.

For more information and detailed requirements on importing plants, contact:

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

United States Dept. of Agriculture
4700 River Road
Unit 136
Riverdale, MD 20737, U.S.A.
Phone: (301) 734-8645
Plant Information Hotline: (301) 734-4327

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Shipping by Mail
All packages mailed into the United States are subject to inspection by the U.S. Customs Service. Here's how it works:

• The Customs Service examines packages and determines if they should be entered as "dutiable" or "free of duty."

• Packages that contain dutiable items are affixed with Customs Form 3419, explaining the amount of duty assessed. Once the customs form has been attached, packages are returned to the Postal Service for delivery. It is the Postal Service's responsibility to collect the duty fee, as well as a postal handling charge and a small Customs Service processing fee for dutiable shipments.
• Packages cleared by customs and determined to be free of duty are endorsed on the outside with "Passed Free - U.S. Customs" and promptly returned to the Postal Service for delivery. These packages are not assessed additional postage or handling fees.

If a package mailed into the States is found to contain restricted or prohibited items, the contents are subject to seizure and forfeiture. Packages that, for any number of reasons, are undeliverable are returned to the country of origin. Any personal belongings of U.S. origin that were taken out of the States may be mailed back into the country free of duty, provided the items were not altered or repaired while abroad. To expedite the customs process, label any such packages as "American Goods Returned." There are procedures for protesting customs duties. For more information on mailing items into the United States, contact the U.S. Customs Service and request Publication 514, "International Mail Imports."

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Clearing Luggage
Any baggage accompanying a person arriving in the United States is subject to inspection by the U.S. Customs Service. As a rule, items for personal or household use purchased abroad are not subject to duty if purchased more than a year ago. However, since every item coming into the country must be reported to a custom inspector, it is recommended that you prepare a list of all items packed in your luggage, including items you plan to distribute as gifts. To further facilitate entry into the country, the U.S. Customs Service advises travelers to pack separately any items purchased abroad.

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Restricted or Prohibited Items
Contact your nearest U.S. consulate, embassy, or the U.S. Customs Service well before packing day to discuss prohibited items. Many of the items restricted from entry into the United States are noted in other sections of this guide. Besides the restrictions placed on such items as vehicles, weapons, liquor, medicine, animals and plants, there are less-obvious items that are subject to strict enforcement of U.S. laws.

According to the U.S. Customs Service, items prohibited from entry into the States include "absinthe, liquor-filled candy (where prohibited by state law), lottery tickets, narcotics and dangerous drugs, obscene articles and publications, seditious and treasonable materials, hazardous articles (such as fireworks, dangerous toys, and toxic or poisonous substances), and switchblade knives (one-armed people are allowed one for personal use.)" People attempting to import any prohibited items into the States will be subject to a personal penalty, and the items will be seized.

Items subject to restrictions include:

• Latin American cultural property
  Some Latin American countries require that an export certificate accompany any pre-Columbian artifacts shipped directly or indirectly to the United States. The U.S. Customs Service enforces this requirement.

• "Pirated" copies of copyrighted books
  This restriction includes any unauthorized copies of American books. The practice of producing photo-offset copies and selling the books at enormously reduced rates is common in the Far East. If the price of a book seems too good to be true, it probably is.
• Merchandise originating in the following countries: Angola, Cuba, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Myanmar (formerly Burma), North Korea, Sudan, the territory of Afghanistan controlled by the Taliban, and the former Yugoslavia.
                                                                                  A U.S. Treasury license issued under the Foreign Assets Control Regulations might be required in order to import certain or all goods (including motor vehicles) from any of the above-mentioned countries, with the exception of informational materials. However, such licenses rarely are granted.                                                                                                                                                          Questions regarding merchandise control should be addressed to: Director, Office of Foreign Assets Control, Department of the Treasury, 1500 Pennsylvania Ave. N.W., Washington, D.C. 20220, U.S.A. The office's telephone, fax and information hotline numbers are (202) 622-2500, (202) 622-1657 and (202) 622-0077, respectively. The list of countries is subject to change at any time, so if in doubt, check with the Office of Foreign Assets Control. http://www.treas.gov/ofac

• Money
  You must file Customs Form 4790 with U.S. Customs if you transport or send into or out of the country more than $10,000 in U.S. or foreign coins, currency, traveler's checks, money orders, negotiables or investment securities.
• Persian rugs
  Unless you can prove they were purchased legally in the United States, your Persian rugs are prohibited and will be seized. Contact a U.S. Customs office before including such a rug in your shipment.
• Trademarked items
  In the United States, the owner of a registered trademark may record it with U.S. Customs. Therefore, the Customs Service is authorized to identify imitation products represented by a protected trademark. The items most frequently identified as having false trademarks are perfume, jewelry (including watches), cameras, tape recorders and musical instruments. People entering the United States are permitted to bring only a certain number of trademarked items, as set by trademark holders, into the country every 30 days.
• Products from endangered/threatened species
  The United States has many regulations governing the importation of products made from parts of animals deemed endangered or threatened. Although items made from these animals might be on sale in many countries, they might not be permitted into another country. Therefore, it is important to determine any guidelines governing the importation of products made from endangered or threatened wildlife well in advance of your departure. Keep in mind more than 130 countries, including the United States) have signed CITES, a comprehensive wildlife treaty regulating the import or export of endangered and threatened plant and animal species.                                                                                                                                                            Here are some of the goods prohibited from entry into the States: ivory products (except antiques at least 100 years old), sea turtle products (including tortoiseshell items), and items made from such endangered or threatened animals as the cheetah, jaguar and tiger. Other wildlife products -- including those from various marine mammals -- may not be imported in most instances except by special permit from either the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the National Marine Fisheries Service. The Fish and Wildlife Service urges that, "If in doubt, do without." Otherwise, you not only will be without the item, but also might be subject to monetary penalties. Check with your destination state's department governing wildlife, as well as federal agencies, for answers to specific importation questions. What might be allowed by the U.S. Government might be prohibited by your destination state.                   
  
      
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Declaring Items

• Customs declaration forms, including Customs Form 3299, should be completed in advance. They should list items in your shipment, their value and whether they were purchased more or less than a year ago. If you send signed, completed forms to your UniGroup Worldwide UTS representative prior to your departure, we can start making arrangements for your customs clearance. Everyone should complete the forms listed here and provide them to the UniGroup Worldwide UTS representative managing your move. You'll find the forms below (These files require the free Adobe Acrobat Reader):
  
  

Before clearing customs, unclaimed personal effects are placed in a warehouse as temporary storage -- storage in transit (SIT) -- and subject to a storage fee. After a certain number of days, your carrier's order for service ceases, and the warehouse assumes responsibility for the shipment -- now considered in "permanent storage" -- under a new contract. If left unclaimed for a year, the items are sold at an auction.

Items can be sent as an in-bond shipment (one awaiting customs clearance) from the first port of arrival to another customs port that is more convenient for you. Arrangements for this should be made before the items leave for the States. Goods also may be sent to a bonded warehouse for temporary  storage. Duties and processing fees are to be paid after items are removed from storage.

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Duty or Duty-Free?
Duty is the tax paid on certain imported goods, including wedding gifts, inherited items and articles purchased at duty-free shops in other countries or in the States, if items are returning here. Customs duty generally is a percentage of an item's dutiable value, but also might be a specific rate or a combination of the two.

Duties for items from countries granted most-favored nation status by the United States typically are lower than for items from other nations. Although items purchased outside the States and brought into the country are subject to internal revenue tax and duty, many household goods purchased abroad (such as furniture carpets, paintings, tableware and linens) and used for at least one year may be imported duty-free.

U.S. residents moving back to the States ordinarily are permitted a duty exemption on $400 (retail value) worth of items purchased abroad -- provided these items accompany the resident into the country and are for use either as personal goods or gifts. U.S. residents returning from American Samoa, Guam or the U.S. Virgin Islands have an exemption of $1,200.

A $600 exemption is allowed for U.S. residents returning from one of about two dozen "beneficiary" countries, which generally are in the Caribbean and in Central and South America. Check with the U.S. Customs Service to find out if a country is on that list.

You may include in your $400 exemption one liter of alcoholic beverages if you are at least age 21 and if alcohol is allowed by your destination state, and up to 100 cigars and 200 cigarettes. (Note: Cuban cigars and cigarettes are not allowed. This prohibition is strictly enforced.) If you have the $1,200 exemption, you may include 1,000 cigarettes. If you cannot claim any of the aforementioned exemptions, you are permitted a $25 exemption and may include in that: up to 50 cigarettes, 10 cigars, 4 fluid ounces of alcoholic beverages and 4 fluid ounces of alcoholic perfume.

After deducting your exemptions and duty-free items, a flat 10% rate of duty will be applied to the next $1,000 worth of merchandise that is for personal use or use as gifts. Any amount exceeding $1,000 will be dutiable at the rates applicable for the various items.

For items from American Samoa, Guam or the U.S. Virgin Islands, the flat rate of duty for the next $1,000 worth of items after the exemption is 5%.

Returning residents may send to friends and relatives in the United States bona-fide gifts of up to $50 in total value free of duty and tax, as long as each recipient does not receive more than $50 in gifts on the day they are processed by customs.

If sending gifts from American Samoa, Guam, or the U.S. Virgin Islands, the total value limit is $100. Do not declare mailed gifts upon your return to the States. Also, gifts accompanying you do not qualify for this exemption. Nonresidents who are entering the United States - including children born outside the States - are permitted to bring in the following items free of duty:

• Personal items, such as clothing, jewelry, cosmetics, items for personal hygiene, and hunting, fishing and photographic equipment.
• Vehicles for personal use, provided they are imported in conjunction with your arrival. Automobiles that comply with U.S. standards may remain in the country indefinitely, but those that do not must be exported with a year.

The personal and household effects of military or civilian employees employed by the U.S. government are eligible for duty-free entry if the person is returning to the States after concluding an extended assignment abroad. The items must have been in the person's possession prior to departure for the States.

A copy of the government orders terminating the person's assignment must accompany the items in an attached sealed envelope. The cartons should be marked "Returned Personal Effects - Orders Enclosed." Please keep in mind the price quoted for transporting your shipment does not include customs duties, taxes or any other fees imposed by the U.S. government. In some cases, additional charges can arise from the random inspection of shipments.

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Clearing Prescription Medicine
To expedite the customs clearance procedure, and to avoid costly and inconvenient delays, do not include prescription medication in your household goods shipment. Instead, carry all prescription drugs with you as you enter the country or mail the medication into the States.

The United States limits the importation of prescription drugs for personal use to a supply of three months or less. Do not consolidate your prescription medications into one container. Instead, keep your medicine in separate vials clearly labeled (in English) with the name of the medication and prescribing doctor, the dosage and directions for use. Medication mailed into the States is routinely inspected.

If your medication does not contain sufficient documentation, the product will be detained until you provide the required paperwork. It also is helpful to secure a letter from your doctor explaining the medications prescribed. Such a letter also could prove invaluable in an emergency situation. This type of documentation is especially important for those (such as diabetics) whose medication is administered via hypodermic injection.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration prohibits the importation of drugs it has determined to be dangerous of fraudulent. This includes unorthodox "cures." To find out if your medication is included in this category, contact a local U.S. consulate or embassy, or the U.S. Customs Service.

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Immigration of Foreign Workers
In an effort to protect the American labor force, the United States has developed strict laws, regulations and procedures governing the immigration of foreign workers. There are different visa requirements pertaining to immigrants (those who wish to live in the United States permanently) and non-immigrants (those whose stay in the States is temporary). For information regarding immigration and visa classifications, contact:

U.S. Department of Justice
Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS)
425 I St. N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20536, U.S.A.
Phone: (800) 375-5283
Forms Request Line: (800) 870-3676

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Resources
The U.S. Customs Service and other agencies of the U.S. government have pamphlets designed to make entry or re-entry into the United States easier. In addition, the Customs Service provides a general information telephone number: (202) 354-1000. To request the following pamphlets, contact your nearest U.S. Customs office, or a U.S. consulate or embassy abroad. You also can write to the Customs Service at P.O. Box 7407, Washington, D.C. 20044, U.S.A. In addition, some of the on-line literature is on the Customs Service's Internet site, whose address is www.customs.ustreas.gov.

To receive free copies of the pamphlets "Travelers' Tips on Bringing Food, Plant, and Animal Products into the United States" and "Importing a Pet Bird - Special Rules for Bringing Pet Birds into the United States" contact:

U.S. Department of Agriculture
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
4700 River Road
Unit 39
Riverdale, MD 20737, U.S.A.

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General Guidelines for Importing Goods Into the United States

• Birds
  Customs Regulations: Upon arrival in the U.S., birds acquired abroad (other than Canada) must be quarantined for at least 30 days in a facility operated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

  U.S.-origin birds out of the States for more than 60 days may be quarantined at the owner's home for 30 days if they: are accompanied by a U.S. veterinarian health certificate and a tattoo or number leg band for identification purposes, both received prior to departure from the U.S.: are inspected at a USDA veterinarian inspection station at the first port of entry (any international airport); and haven't been in contact with poultry or other birds while outside the U.S.

  Documents Required: For birds acquired abroad (other than Canada), a health certificate from the bird's origin country must be completed 30 days prior to entry into the U.S. Quarantine space must be reserved in advance via VS Form 17-23. Special permits might be required by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for bird products (such as mounted birds) or certain live birds.

  Contact:

         4401 North Fairfax Dr., Room 520

         Arlington, VA 22203-3247, U.S.A.
         Phone: (703) 358-1949
         Fax: (703) 358-2271

• Cats
  Customs Regulations: Must be free from disease. If not in good health, an examination by a veterinarian might be required at the owner's expense.
• Dogs
  Documents Required: A valid rabies vaccination certificate must accompany a dog vaccinated a month or more before arrival. If a dog was vaccinated for rabies less than one month prior to arrival, it will be admitted, but must be confined by the owner for at least 30 days after the vaccination. A dog that has not been vaccinated may be admitted, provided the owner has it vaccinated within 10 days of arrival and confined for a subsequent 30 days.

• Feathers, furs, skins, tusks, etc. of animals protected by law
  Customs Regulations: Importation prohibited. Items include ivory products (except antiques at least 100 years old), sea turtle products (including tortoiseshell items), and items made from such endangered or threatened animals as the cheetah, jaguar and tiger.

  Contact:

         Division of Law Enforcement, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

         4401 North Fairfax Dr., Room 520

         Arlington, VA 22203-3247, U.S.A.
         Phone: (703) 358-1949
         Fax: (703) 358-2271

• Fruits, vegetables and plants
  Customs Regulations: Plants, plant products, fruits and vegetables must be declared to customs and presented to a customs officer for inspection. Numerous restrictions have been placed on the importation of endangered plants.

  Documents Required: A permit from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) may be required, depending on the type of plant. A permit also may be required from the plant's origin country.

  Remarks: All plants must be free of soil, sand and earth. Some plants need to be inspected at certain inspection stations. Others do not require permits and can be carried as personal baggage when you enter the U.S. Check with the USDA.

• Gifts
  Customs Regulations: Returning residents may send to people in the U.S. bona-fide gifts of up to $50 in total value free of duty, as long as each recipient does not receive more than $50 in gifts on the day they are processed by customs. From American Samoa, Guam or the U.S. Virgin Islands, the total value gift limit is $100.

  For non-residents, gifts brought to the U.S. up to a combined value of $100 are exempted from duty.

  Remarks: Do not declare mailed gifts upon your return to the U.S. Gifts accompanying you do not qualify for exemption. Make a list of these gifts (if any) and keep receipts of purchase.

• Guns
  Customs Regulations: Guns previously exported from the U.S. can be cleared provided the owner has a bill of sale or other commercial document establishing ownership.

  Guns and ammunition purchased abroad are subject to complicated clearance procedures, including application for a permit from the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF).

  Weapons, ammunition and other devices prohibited by the National Firearms Act will be denied entry unless specifically authorized by the ATF.

  Firearms manufactured before 1898 may be imported into the U.S. without difficulty.

  Documents Required: A Certificate of Registration if gun was acquired in the U.S. (Customs Form 4455 or 4457 may be used.)

  A permit from the ATF for guns purchased abroad.

  Contact:

  Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms

  Department of the Treasury
  650 Massachusetts Ave. N.W., Room 5300
  Washington, D.C. 20226, U.S.A.
  Phone: (202) 927-8320
  Fax: (202) 927-2697

• Household Goods
  Customs Regulations: Items purchased outside the U.S. and brought into the country are subject to internal revenue tax and duty; however, many household goods purchased abroad and used for more than one year may be imported duty-free. A U.S. resident ordinarily is permitted an exemption on $400 worth of items purchased abroad, provided the items accompany the person into the country and are for use either as personal goods or gifts. U.S. residents returning from American Samoa, Guam or the U.S. Virgin Islands have an exemption of $1,200. A $600 exemption is allowed for U.S. residents returning from one of the 24 "beneficiary" countries, which generally are in the Caribbean and Central and South America. Check with U.S. Customs to find out if your country is on that list.

  Non-residents entering the U.S. are permitted to bring in the following items free of duty:

  • Bona-fide gifts of up to a combined value of $100.
  • Personal items, such as clothing, jewelry, cosmetics, items for personal hygiene, and hunting, fishing and photographic equipment.
  • Vehicles for personal use, provided they are imported in conjunction with the non-resident's arrival.

  Documents Required: U.S. Customs Form 3299 and order for service.

• Narcotics, pornography, fireworks, poison, dangerous toys and switchblade knives
                                                                               Customs Regulations: Importation prohibited.

  Remarks: If a package mailed into the U.S. is found to contain prohibited articles, the items are subject to seizure and forfeiture.

• Vehicles
  Customs Regulations:
  • Duty is based on the price paid or invoice price. Most Canadian-made vehicles are duty-free. Returning U.S. residents may apply their $400 customs exemption (plus the exemptions of accompanying family members) toward the vehicle's value if the vehicle accompanies them on their return to the U.S., is imported for personal use and was purchased during their stay abroad. After this exemption has been applied, the next $1,000 of the vehicle's value is dutiable at a flat rate of 10%, with the remainder dutiable at the regular rate.

   

• • Non-residents may import a vehicle provided it is for personal use and is imported in conjunction with the owner's arrival. Vehicles that conform to U.S. safety, bumper and emission standards may remain in the U.S. indefinitely. If a conforming vehicle was imported under duty-free exemptions, it is dutiable if sold within one year of importation. Non-conforming vehicles cannot be sold in the U.S. and must be exported within one year.

   

  • Vehicles must be free from foreign soil, so you must have your car steam-sprayed or cleaned thoroughly.
  • Some imported vehicles are subject to the "Gas Guzzler Tax" stipulated in Section 4064 of the Internal Revenue Code.

  Documents Required: Proof of ownership, order for service, bill of sale, foreign registration, International Registration Market, DOT Form HS-7, EPA Form 3520-1 and any other documents covering the vehicle.

  Prior to your arrival, obtain statements from the foreign manufacturer indicating your vehicle conforms to U.S. safety, bumper and emission standards. If it does not, you will have to import your vehicle through an automotive business approved by either the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) or federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as an importer of record. You will need copies of your contract with the business.

  Remarks: The "Clearing Vehicles" section provides the addresses and telephone numbers for the following agencies:

  • The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)