I didn't buy a very heavy museum catelog while in Italy (mistake), so now I'm having to order it from a vendor (in either Italy or France). The commentary says that additional customs fees may apply. Any idea how to get an estimate of what they will be? I'm trying to decide if paying almost twice the price to a US vendor might make more sense. Buying from Italy or France, the cost for the book, without shipping, is about $65. Ordering through US Amazon, the best price for VG used copy is about $125 (nothing new). Elsewhere in the US, I've found new copies for about $1000. Any idea how to estimate customs fees on this book?
Sherry, did you try looking for the book on half.com (ebay's used book site)? My understanding is that you normally are not assessed duty on items under $200. But if you go to the CBP site, you can see if you can find the details. www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/trade/basic_trade/internet_purchases.xml#USCustomsandBorderProtectionDeclarations
Word of caution DO NOT order to be sent via Italian Mail.
Absolutely the worst, untrustworthy mail system on the planet. Personally I'd cough up the bucks and get it here in the states but that's just me still waiting for my package I sent to myself from Lake Como....in 2009.
Laura, thank you. That's really helpful!