CBP Form 3299: Any unaccompanied shipment of household effects entering the U.S. requires a completed **CBP Form 3299 (Declaration for Free Entry of Unaccompanied Articles)** to clear customs without duties.
U.S. Duty-Free Eligibility Checker
Evaluate if your shipment qualifies for tax-free customs clearance:
The One-Year Use Rule
Under U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) subheading 9804.00.05, household goods can enter the U.S. duty-free only if they have been in your physical use and possession abroad for **at least 1 year** before shipment.
- Unused/New Items: Any items owned for less than 1 year (e.g. brand new furniture or electronics still in boxes) must be declared separately on Form 3299 and are subject to standard customs duties.
- 10-Year Import Window: You must import your household effects within 10 years of your last arrival in the U.S. to qualify for duty-free entry.
Required Documentation Checklist
Your international movers or customs broker will require the following package to clear your container:
| Document | Purpose | Filing Entity |
|---|---|---|
| CBP Form 3299 | Declares eligibility and lists unaccompanied goods. | Completed and signed by the Expat. |
| Detailed Inventory | A packing list showing the specific contents and estimated value of each box. | Completed by you or the moving team. |
| CBP Form 1400 (ISF) | Importer Security Filing (ISF "10+2") required for ocean shipments. | Filed by the shipping line 24 hours before loading. |
Importing Vehicles & Pets
Importing cars or animals into the U.S. is highly regulated:
- Motor Vehicles: Must comply with EPA emission standards (Form 3520-1) and DOT safety standards (Form HS-7). Canadian-spec cars are generally easier to import, whereas European or Chinese-spec cars require substantial modifications by a Registered Importer (RI).
- Pets (Dogs & Cats): Dogs entering the U.S. are subject to strict CDC guidelines (including rabies vaccination certificates, microchipping, and CDC Import Permits if arriving from high-risk rabies countries).
Warning on Customs Inspections: CBP random inspections (intensive examinations) can occur at U.S. ports. The importer (you) is responsible for any ocean terminal storage fees (demurrage) or exam site transfer fees incurred during inspections.