US Federal

Do I have to declare everything I purchased abroad when returning to the US?

$800

Duty-free allowance

48 hours

Minimum abroad stay

19 U.S.C. § 150

Appraisement statute

All items

Must be declared

The Short Answer

Yes, you must declare all items you purchased abroad when returning to the U.S., including gifts and items for others — but you may qualify for a $800 duty-free exemption if you’re a U.S. resident returning after at least 48 hours.

What the Law Says

Federal law requires travelers to truthfully declare all articles acquired abroad — regardless of value, purpose (personal use, gift, or resale), or whether they appear to be dutiable. The Tariff Act governs how U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) appraises, classifies, and assesses duties on imported goods, including those brought in by individuals.

Under 19 U.S.C. § 1500, CBP officers have the authority to examine all merchandise entering the United States and to determine its appraised value, classification, and admissibility. This includes goods carried by travelers returning from abroad.

The law mandates that 'all merchandise imported into the United States shall be appraised and classified by the appropriate customs officer' — and this applies equally to commercial shipments and personal baggage.

While not all declared items are subject to duty, failure to declare *any* article — even if ultimately duty-free — may result in seizure, civil penalties, or denial of future duty-free privileges.

Statutory Text
All merchandise imported into the United States shall be appraised and classified by the appropriate customs officer.
— 19 U.S. Code § 1500 — Appraisement, classification, and liquidation procedure

What to Do

Fill out CBP Form 6059-B (the blue customs declaration form) completely and honestly before arrival.

Declare *all* items purchased, received as gifts, or acquired abroad — including alcohol, tobacco, food, and souvenirs.

Keep receipts for items over $800 to support valuation if requested.

Be prepared to show items upon request — CBP may inspect luggage or ask questions about purchases.

If claiming the $800 personal exemption, confirm you’ve been outside the U.S. for at least 48 hours and are a U.S. resident.

Sources

statute19 U.S. Code § 1500 — Appraisement, classification, and liquidation procedure

Same Question, Other Jurisdictions

Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.