Just wanted to know what kind of complications do we run into if we buy a watch from EU nations (Germany)? I was looking for a watch in Germany and the seller want to declare the full price. How much do i have to pay the customs? don't want to deal if it is too much of a hassle. Your suggestions and opinions are greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Depends for watches I know customs charges standard 8.5% for watches and may slightly vary with metal, number of jewels, etc. FedEx and UPS typically collect. USPS very seldomly and DHL no clue.
Wow thanks a lot for the quick replies. Its 18k gold watch. Express Mail ? is that a mail service in Germany? or is it just a type of service?
Its called different things in different countries but its called EMS: http://www.ems.post/ In the US its USPS Express international, in Australia its AusPost Express etc Germany will have its own name for EMS but its all EMS
DHL is the German Post, and it is very reliable with tracking. It works with USPS for American shipments. Express would be far more expensive. I've received dozens of watches from Europe, and don't recall ever having had to pay customs duties.
EMS is the equivalent of USPS Priority air mail (and is delivered by USPS). It may be subject to imports if the value is declared in US currency.
Yes but you will pay VAT at 20% on the value including postage costs, plus a processing fee (typically around £15), if it's over £18 (or £36 if it's a 'gift').