If you have ever traveled overseas, then you have  completed the process for re-entry into the United States through Customs on your return.  CBP attempts to make this process as efficient and simple as possible for bringing items back with you. Although, you should check with them before your overseas departure as some items may have certain restrictions and could carry fines for attempting to bring them into the country without proper permits and documentation. The following steps also apply to foreigners visiting the U.S. Here is the general process that you will encounter:

STEP 1

• Obtain travel documents before leaving your home country
• On board the plane, File CBP Customs Declaration Form  I-94 (or I-94W for visitors)
• Go to Inspection Area upon arrival into the U.S.

STEP 2

• Pick up baggage at carousel
• Present Declaration Form to CBP Official (baggage susceptible to search)
• Pay any duties that may apply

STEP 3

• Continue on to final CBP checkpoint
• Depart or proceed to connecting flight

As long as you have declared everything required on the form and have additional documents for any restricted items in your possession, this process should be smooth and simple.

If you’re a U.S. Citizen who has been living overseas and is ready to return home, we can help you ship your possessions and clear them through U.S. Customs. Our web application makes it fast, cheap and hassle free to bring your personal effects home.

Whether you want to ship by air, ocean, truck or rail, we can help you find low-cost transportation and customs broker services to get your stuff back home quickly and reliably. Just fill out the simple form below and one of our logistics and customs experts will get you a quote for moving your goods right away.