US Customs Duty Estimator Guide
When returning to the United States from an international trip, you are allowed to bring back $800 worth of goods duty-free. Anything above that amount is subject to customs duty. This tool gives you a quick estimate of how much you might owe based on your total purchases.
How US Customs Duty Works
The first $800 is fully exempt. The next $1,000 above the limit is taxed at a flat 3%. Amounts beyond that are taxed by item category, typically ranging from 2% to 10%. Use this estimator for planning — actual duty depends on what you purchased. Declare everything honestly on CBP Form 6059B.
How This Estimate Is Calculated
This calculator asks you to enter your own estimated duty rate rather than computing an exact figure, because real US duty combines a flat 3% rate on the first $1,000 over your $800 exemption with item-specific rates (2–10%+) on anything beyond that — getting an exact number requires knowing each item's official tariff schedule (HTSUS) code. A flat 3–5% estimate is usually close for typical mixed souvenir purchases, so that's the default; adjust it up if you know your items fall into higher-rate categories like leather goods or electronics.
Tips to Minimize Duty
Wear or use items you purchased rather than carrying them in original packaging (they may be considered personal effects). Gifts you mail back separately are duty-free up to $100 per package. Consider spreading large purchases across family members, each with their own $800 exemption.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. All foreign-purchased goods must be declared on your customs form, regardless of value. The officer decides if duty applies. Undeclared items can be seized and fines assessed.
Yes, as long as you have been abroad for at least 48 hours and have not used the exemption within the past 30 days. Shorter trips may qualify for a reduced $200 exemption.