Customs fees experience?

[Iolaus]

I got a call from FedEx yesterday, asking if the item from the UK was for personal use or resale. Since it was for personal use, there was no extra charges.

[bubba]

Iolaus, that's unusual. Given the couriers fees for collecting duty and such they generally go ahead and nail you for it. It also doesn't help that the duty lists are vague and somewhat capricious allowing inspectors to ring up inappropriate totals, maximizing the take rather than a fair collection.

[Bob C]

I paid duty on a jacket and waistcoat. I have ordered several other things, including my most recent budget kilt, without duty.

I suspect Glassman is exactly right. The jacket/waistcoat was over $200. Everything else was under. That must be the limit.