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