Naptown Gaijin

I am amazed about how much crappy info is posted to answer a simple question, especially from people living outside the USA who have zero knowledge of CBP regulations or the application thereof.

If you don't KNOW the answer, then STFU!!

The poor OP is now more confused then ever.

To the OP: do some research on your own at the CBP website. The answers are there if you look.

Jim Bianco

No.

camerapapi Loc: Miami, Fl.

With all due respect, why buying a lens from Japan? I bet you can buy the same lens here and most probably at a more reasonable price. Check with MPB, Robert's Camera, Adorama, Hunt, B&H and Cameta all of them reputable dealers with excellent warranties if buying used or refurbed.

If the lens you buy in Japan has issues you will have to send it back because mos importers will not honor a warranty on them or repair what they consider gray market.

Jim Bianco

Thanks

Cykdelic Loc: Now outside of Chiraq & Santa Fe, NM

This from eBay .......

“Japan is a signatory to the WTO/TRIPS among other agreements with the USA and, as such, goods manufactured there are entitled to the beneficial rate of duty when imported into the USA which, in the case of camera lenses is generally 2.3% .

That said --as you’ve no doubt already found out since making this post, and for the benefit of others -- there is a “de minimus exemption” in the USA which generally allows importation of a shipment of merchandise by a single person free of duties and taxes – up from $200 to $800 USD. Moreover, cross-border shipments with values under $800 USD no longer require formal customs processing (with some exceptions), making cross-border deliveries to US shoppers not only quicker but also cheaper!”

Properframe Loc: US Virginia

No. You only pay import duties on lenses valued at $801 or more. If you buy a lens from Japan over $2,000 it also has to clear customs export in Japan, which takes time but not money. The Japanese are normally fastidious in the care of their camera gear.

chrissybabe Loc: New Zealand

I see you also decided to help the OP with useful advice !
Your advice being 'do your own research'.

Bill P

You only pay if you get caught. Thousands of packages slip through the cracks every day.

chrissybabe Loc: New Zealand

UHH's seem to be a mixture of either 'slippery' or 'holier than thou' photographers.
Weird but probably normal mix.