Customs in Milan

Jennifer,
Are you taking a seriously large amount of camera equipment and jewelry, or just what a normal tourist would have?

The 4457 form is not for customs in Europe. It is to register your American goods before you leave. It would be used to prove to U.S. customs on your return that you did not buy the goods abroad. Given that electronics and jewelry are generally significantly cheaper in the U.S., I have never had U.S. customs question me about my electronics or laptop and I have carried them many times abroad. You really don't need to fill out this form unless you are carrying something exceptionally expensive or unusual. Check the U.S. customs website if you think this applies to you.

Customs in Europe is generally a non-event. Assuming you are not bringing anything unusual, you just walk through the "Nothing to declare" lane after passing through passport control and retrieving your luggage.

Thanks, Virginia! You've cleared up several misconceptions for me. We won't have anything unusual so "Nothing To Declare" sounds like the line we need to be in. Thanks, again.

I agree with the advice Laura has given you. Forget about that form.

Inspectors usually pay no attention to cameras nowadays. They are a lot more interested in liquids.

Jennifer

Laura's right, customs in Europe is a non-event. The only potential hassle is coming back into the States. However, you should wear a cheap watch and leave your good jewelry at home or you are making your self a target for pickpockets and thieves.

I agree with all of the above. The only caveat might be is if you have something of value made in Europe. Then, it might be difficult to prove that you bought it at home.

Also...keep the expensive jewelry, watches, etc at home.

On return, you will go through Customs in Houston. You don't go through customs leaving a country. At Heathrow, you should be able to use airside transfer without having to go through immigration or customs. (I do believe you will have to change terminals. Go to the transfer desk upon arrival and they will help you.)

Thanks, everyone. I think the closer May gets, the more nervous I become! Laura, sorry I got your name and state mixed up.

One more question...if you don't go through customs when leaving a country, will we pay duty on things bought in Europe in Houston? (If over $400?)

Yes, you'll pay it in Houston.

You don't pay customs duties to the country you're leaving. They want you to spend as much money as possible.

It's the U.S. that puts limits on how much you can bring back.

US Customs now allows us $800 before charging duty tax. This is $800 per person within a family.

Thanks Frank & Darcy!