Customs: What To Do, What Not To Do, and What To Expect.

Declarations Card
Before landing, you will be handed a customs declaration card for the country you are entering. Most questions are self explanatory, however, there are a few you may have questions about. You will be asked to fill in your airline or flight number. For that, simply look on your itinerary or your boarding pass. To find that number. Another question you may wonder about will be one asking the purpose of your trip. You will most likely be given a choice to check either “business” or “personal”,. Please check the box marked “personal“.

You will also be asked on the back of the form, especially on the U.S. Customs form, to report any purchases you made abroad and are bringing back into the U.S. However, if your purchases and gifts do not total more than $400, you do not have to list them individually. Just write the total amount (estimate, if not known exactly), in the appropriate place on the back of the form. It is a good idea, just in the rare case, to keep your receipts from the souvenirs you purchase and keep them with you.

Registering Articles
If you are carrying foreign made articles overseas, like camera equipment, watches, etc… that were made originally in the country you are visiting, you may wish to register those items with Customs. Call the number for U.S. Customs located in the blue pages of the phone book to find out more.

No-No Souvenirs
Fresh fruit, meat, plants in soil, and many other agricultural products from abroad are pro hibited from entering the U.S. In addition, many items made from endangered animals and plants are also prohibited. This list may also include many antiques, glazed ceramics, and wildlife souvenirs.

Just A Few More Hints & Warnings
If you mail home a package, it is not duty free unless the value is less than $200.00. Write on outside that it is for personal use. If a customs official ever asks you what an item is for, say “for personal use” . Lay all of your items on conveyor belt when going through Customs and comply with all request. Bon Voyage!!!!

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