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Friday Firearm Tip!
Persons departing the U.S. for international destinations must have proof of ownership for firearms (or other valuables). Otherwise, you may have to pay duty on the item each time you bring it back into the U.S., unless you can prove that you owned it before you left on your trip. Documents that fully describe the item—such as sales receipts—are acceptable forms of proof.
To make things easier, you can register certain items with CBP before you depart — specifically firearms — as long as they have serial numbers or other unique, permanent markings. Take the items to the nearest CBP office and request a Certificate of Registration for Personal Effects Taken Abroad (CBP Form 4457). It shows that you had the items with you before leaving the United States and all items listed on it will be allowed duty-free entry. CBP officers must see the item you are registering in order to certify the certificate of registration. This is a lifetime form for the owner listed so keep the certificate for future trips. You can quickly search online to find a CBP office near you.
Note that the Form 4457 is not only requested upon re-entry into the U.S. but many countries are also requesting to see this as proof of ownership for your firearms. In addition, South Africa requires your 4457 to be signed by a CBP officer the same year you travel, even though this is a lifetime form.
Persons departing the U.S. for international destinations must have proof of ownership for firearms (or other valuables). Otherwise, you may have to pay duty on the item each time you bring it back into the U.S., unless you can prove that you owned it before you left on your trip. Documents that fully describe the item—such as sales receipts—are acceptable forms of proof.
To make things easier, you can register certain items with CBP before you depart — specifically firearms — as long as they have serial numbers or other unique, permanent markings. Take the items to the nearest CBP office and request a Certificate of Registration for Personal Effects Taken Abroad (CBP Form 4457). It shows that you had the items with you before leaving the United States and all items listed on it will be allowed duty-free entry. CBP officers must see the item you are registering in order to certify the certificate of registration. This is a lifetime form for the owner listed so keep the certificate for future trips. You can quickly search online to find a CBP office near you.
Note that the Form 4457 is not only requested upon re-entry into the U.S. but many countries are also requesting to see this as proof of ownership for your firearms. In addition, South Africa requires your 4457 to be signed by a CBP officer the same year you travel, even though this is a lifetime form.
