Watch Collection Through Customs
Hi All, just a question really. I don’t really know how customs work. Have any of you experience bringing the whole collection box through customs when you are on vacation or job overseas? I wonder do you guys have to always pay for the tax of luxurious jewelry or its just different in every country?
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Generally you need to declare if you're bringing more than a certain amount of money or goods into a country. You'll need to research what those limits are in your particular situation and what the outcome is.
When moving countries from Europe to the US I brought my moderate watch collection. I already had part of it in the US so I brought about 5 watches with me on the plane. Security did want to see the little pouch with the watches and asked me a couple questions about them. Other than that no issues. I’m sure it depends on the amount and value of the watches.
You’ll need to pay US customs over a certain amount. My wife and I bought a couple luxury hand bags and some jewelry in Italy last summer. On some of purchases we got a VAT document for taxes. It’s for a tax reimbursement you get at the airport before you leave. The US will also get that VAT document. When you go through US customs you declare the amount you purchase. The first $800 is tax free. I believe that’s the value or it’s something close to that. Everything else declared in the US is taxed at 3%.
Make sure you can document any watches you leave your home country with, to ensure no issue when you return. This especially true if you are going to someplace like Switzerland.
There's a workaround to avoid Customs...
The trick is, to walk calmly through customs looking as inconspicuous as possible.
Interesting question and one i've thought of. My wife and I are considering relocating to Australia, and i'd be taking something like €20k of watches and jewellery with me. I wouldn't want that go in the shipping with our other posessions, so would likely take it on the plane. But a peli case full of watches is surely going to arouse suspicion. More investigation required me thinks.
Interesting question and one i've thought of. My wife and I are considering relocating to Australia, and i'd be taking something like €20k of watches and jewellery with me. I wouldn't want that go in the shipping with our other posessions, so would likely take it on the plane. But a peli case full of watches is surely going to arouse suspicion. More investigation required me thinks.
re Australia 🇦🇺 importing:
Watches are Duty Free But subject to 10% GST (tax).
However if you are importing personal effects that you have owned AND used for the previous 12 months, they should be GST free.
Watches still with stickers or unworn would likely not qualify as used. Hope that helps.
re Australia 🇦🇺 importing:
Watches are Duty Free But subject to 10% GST (tax).
However if you are importing personal effects that you have owned AND used for the previous 12 months, they should be GST free.
Watches still with stickers or unworn would likely not qualify as used. Hope that helps.
Very helpful, thanks!!