Architect's Drafting Kit from Japan
A personal set of drafting tools including T-square, triangles, compass, and mechanical pencils that an architect took abroad for a project consultation. This qualifies under HTS 9804.00.10 as professional instruments of the architect's trade taken abroad by the owner and returned. The tools remain duty-free as they were used professionally overseas.
Duty Rate — Japan → United States
12.5%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.4912.5%Except for products described in headings 9903.05.85–9903.05.92, articles the product of Japan, with an ad valorem (or ad valorem equivalent) rate of duty under column 1 less than 12.5 percent, as provided for in U.S. note 52 to this subchapter
Import Tips
• Provide proof of ownership and export (receipts, photos, passport stamps) to demonstrate tools were taken abroad by the traveler
• Declaration must show items are for personal professional use, not commercial resale
• Avoid common pitfall of new similar tools which would classify under standard chapters 82/90