shipping items before GC

[Steffen 0]

Hi guys,

I have no clue where to post my question, so I decided to post it here.

Let me explain my situation. Next week, october 9th I'm having my interview for my Cr-1 visa. By coincidence it happens that my parents fly to the USA 2 days before my interview. Since I don't want to keep much of my belongings I decided to take the items I want to keep with my in a few extra suitcases. Since my parents will go to the USA anyway I also want to send some items ahead.

My question is, can this cause any problems? Can my parents get in trouble at the border?

I want to send scubagear items (nothing really expensive), painting (canvas pictures of personel events), wintercloths and LEGO. The LEGO has a value of around $3000,-

As you can read it is not the most average items you take with you on a holiday trip. Since I don't have my GC when they enter the US I'm afraid they will get in trouble. They will visit my inlaws in the US and leave the suitcases there.

Maybe I'm getting worried over nothing, but I was hoping for some advice. So anybody?

[Krikit 1,163]

Unfortunately, your items cannot be cleared without evidence of your legal status in the US.... and you won't have any until you receive your visa and have it endorsed at the Port of Entry. Sorry.

Moving from Off Topic to the Moving Here forum so your thread doesn't get lost in off topic stuff.

[Steffen 0]

Thanks for your answer. Is there a chance my parents can take items, and declare them as a gift to my inlaws? I know it is stretching it, but perhaps this could be a solution.

[Krikit 1,163]

Yes, but only of a value of up to $100 per person entering the US. Anything above and beyond that is dutiable at 3% of the item. If items were to accompany you as an immigrant, or to be sent or brought after you have immigrated, then they come in duty free. Here is a link to the gift exemption information on the US Customs and Border Protection site. You will find other answers if you do a search. "Moving" is a good search parameter.

https://help.cbp.gov...5/kw/gift/sno/1

Edited October 2, 2012 by Krikit

[Steffen 0]

Thank you very much. This is really helpfull.

[Krikit 1,163]

You are very welcome. And good luck on your interview!