customs import duties
 

Does anyone understand how import duties are calculated on electronics shipped from Japan to the US? Some PriceJapan buyers had to pay DHL bills for "customs clearance", I believe, so does it matter if the shipper is a business or an individual? For a vid cam package in the US$1500 range, declared as such, what would possible duties likely amount to? Any tips to help avoid customs delays/hassles/large fees on a shipment between two individuals of a cam and accessories for personal use (ie keeping the declared package value under a specific amount)? I'm posting this here because acquiring an MX or GS100 must have taught some buyers about these issues.

I don't know about whether there is duty to the USA, in Canada, there is not (with consumer cams from several countries including Japan). Perhaps some US folk who ordered say from pricejapan can give you the scoop, or call US Customs.

Any tips? Why sure, USE FEDEX!

I have another tip, but if I posted it here, I'd be in hot water.

from what i've expreienced, the DHL guys who shipped the item took care of everything, delivered on time etc. and only about a week later sent me an invoice for the amount.

I guess any good shipping company like DHL/ fedex/ UPS etc. would do the same, and you probably wont have to face any delays.

the merchant - pricejapan in my case did specify upfront that it takes about 2 days for customs clearance, and took it into account while commiting delivery time. I belive the customs duty is slightly more for items greater that $2000 in value.
I believe they have some info like this on their website at www.pricejapan.com