Harmonized Tariff codes for international shipping?

WallflowerVintage

WallflowerVintage

Alumni
I wonder if anyone can give me pointers about the US customs form for shipping out of the US.

The USPS Click n Ship does a pretty good job of helping with the necessary forms and information, but my knowledge is lacking about the HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) numbers for vintage clothing and accessories.

I thought I might be able to use the "Worn Clothes" category (#630900), but after looking into it a bit on the government sites, I see that the category refers to 'significantly worn' and 'baled' clothes.

Are customs agencies in other countries going to be concerned about duty on a few pieces of used clothing?

Do I use the same tariff numbers that new clothes are required to use? Is there some alternative category, or can I simply skip that entry on the form? Heck, they're used clothes!

Thanks for any advice... I sure appreciate it. (the learning curve is smoothing just a little bit....)

--
Vinnie
WallflowerVintage
 
Originally posted by WallflowerVintage

Are customs agencies in other countries going to be concerned about duty on a few pieces of used clothing?
Click to expand...

I can tell you about import to the UK from outside Europe. They certainly do bother about anything that has value, used clothes or otherwise. It's quite complicated but basically you get stung if you receive anything that has a value of over £18.

Over £18 (aprox $28 now) or £40 for gifts, you are charged VAT at 17.5% (a type of tax) and which wouldn't be such a big deal but the post office charge an additional £8 'handling fee', however much the VAT charge is. Which if you've bought something for just £20 is quite a big chunk. Over £135 you have to pay import duty as well.

This link is a full guide. Question 3.2 points out that used goods are still liable for charges. I believe 'antiques' maybe charged differently but havent' looked into it fully.

I think they sometimes don't bother if it's just a small charge, but I've never wanted to risk it.

Ruth
 
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