duty fees
 

can anyone provide details on us customs duty fees?...i will be in the uk for 15 days and will be buying touristy stuff...etc...are there duty fees per item?...are we allowed a certain amount before being taxed?...is there a minimum amount(or max) before being hosed by uncle sam?

No hosing by the uncle. You have $400 (and maybe it is more now) to bring back duty free. You don't even have to list everything unless you are well over that amount--just declare on the immigration form that you are bringing in "about $X". Even if you go over they rarely charge and if so it is nominal.

Hi,

The definitive answers are at http://www.customs.ustreas.gov/travel/travel.htm

In general, you will pay a 10% duty on stuff that exceeds your allowance.

Meat products aren't permitted.

Also certain items ( anitiques over 100 yr old, original art works, etc) are exempt. Also if you are traveling with a spouse, you can combine your purchases so you'd have $800.00 to play around with.

The address ira gave for custom info didn't work for me, try this one:

http://www.customs.ustreas.gov/xp/cgov/travel/vacation/

The correct exemption is now $800.

thanks ...i will rest easier...i don't plan on anything really expensive