A few Qs for those who have bought/imported watches and had these delivered into the U.S. by DHL.

Let's assume there are import taxes in this gamble, what's the process to pay customs/import duties? Are these paid directly to DHL at delivery or it requires a trip to the local customs office? Let's assume in this scenario that delivery is in the state of sunny California, does the state impose additional fees/taxes?

@gatorcpa

 

You will pay both federal impiety and state taxes. A savvy shipper in this scenario is your best friend.

 

If it's the US Postal Service, they take a check when they deliver. To Texas, DHL, Fedex and UPS all now hold the item until payment is received. I have gotten emails telling me that duty is due and can be paid online.
In Texas, I have yet to be charged state tax through FedEx or DHL, only import duty.

 

You can pay online with a card etc. thru DHL, they'll contact you.

Then, at tax time, California will send you a bill as well.

 

Pay before pick up or delivery. You get a notice. Easy Peezy. FedEx bills you after.

 

The last shipment I got though Fedex, I had to pay before it would be delivered.

 

Been a while so perhaps they changed policy.

 

I was surprised because I have received an invoice for prior shipments.

 

Thanks - this is good to know as I'm not a California resident, but just in town for a brief visit and using a surrogate's residential address to receive the goods. I just need to make sure we do this the right way so the home owner does not get stuck with a bill.

 

I have generally received an invoice after the fact for shipments by various couriers, including DHL. Although sometimes I don't seem to receive an invoice at all. I think that US Customs is fairly inconsistent. I'm not familiar with the California part of the equation.

 

thanks Dan - an invoice from? after delivery?

 

I think all delivery services have become far more diligent about collecting duty. Within the last year, I have received electronic invoices from the big 3, before they will deliver.

 

Thanks - I must now look for an accurate definition of a savvy shipper

 

Yes, an invoice after the fact, in the mail. From the courier I think, but my memory is a bit fuzzy.

Edit: Looking back on my payments, it seems that my last experience with this was in October 2019, with FedEx. Based on @efauser's experience, perhaps it has changed since then.

 

must be another reason of why we hear Californians are moving to Texas by the masses!

 

For me last year, I received an email form Fedex which prompted completion of several forms. It was quite painful to say the least. After determining the value of the items an invoice was generated which I paid prior to final release. Then months later, I received a state tax invoice as icing on the cake. If the import documents are filled in a certain manner, all can be avoided.

 

I'll gladly pay additional taxes if it stops them.

 

Also, the homeowner won’t be stuck with the invoice as it’s tied to your SS#. They’ll find you one way or the other.

 

ah! just great!

 

I imported a Steinhart from Germany to Florida last month and it was shipped DHL. I did not have to pay any duty to release it, and so far no bill. The last time I imported a couple of watches (2 years ago) I was billed a month after I received the package.

so I think the best answer is “it depends.” Just wait until you are asked to pay, and pay. If you aren’t asked, then customs let it in without duty. I’m sure DHL, FEdEx, etc don’t eat it.