How to Declare Goods at Customs in Georgia, United States

All travelers entering the United States through ports in Georgia (like Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson Airport) must declare any goods acquired abroad to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) by completing a declaration form, with penalties for non-compliance that may include substantial fines and seizure of goods.

U.S. Customs Declaration Overview for Travelers

Upon entering the United States, every traveler is responsible for declaring all articles they are bringing into the country to a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer. This process applies at all ports of entry, including major hubs in Georgia like Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). The primary purpose is to control the import of goods, assess applicable duties and taxes, and prevent the entry of prohibited or restricted items that could harm the economy, environment, or public health.

Key Principle: "When in Doubt, Declare"

It is always better to declare an item and be told it is admissible than to fail to declare it. CBP officers have the authority to conduct inspections of all persons, luggage, and merchandise entering the United States.

What You Must Declare

You must declare all items you obtained outside the United States, as well as any items you received as gifts or purchases from duty-free shops, and items you are carrying for someone else. This includes items in both checked and carry-on baggage.

Category of Goods Declaration Required? Notes / Limits Potential Duty/Tax
Commercial Merchandise Yes Items intended for resale or business use. Yes, based on value.
Gifts Yes Items you will give to others. Value counts toward your exemption. If value exceeds personal exemption.
Alcohol Yes Must be 21+. Generally, 1 liter duty-free under exemption. Yes, on amounts over 1 liter.
Tobacco Products Yes 200 cigarettes, 100 cigars allowed under exemption for residents. Yes, on amounts over limit.
Food Products Yes Most fresh foods are prohibited. Declare ALL food. Possible, but often seized if prohibited.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

Absolute Prohibitions

These items are illegal to bring into the United States under any circumstances: narcotics and certain controlled substances, counterfeit articles, obscene materials, and items made from endangered species (ivory, tortoise shell, etc.).

Agricultural Restrictions

To protect U.S. agriculture, most fruits, vegetables, plants, seeds, soil, meats, and poultry products are prohibited or require special permits from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Failure to declare these can result in immediate seizure and penalties.

The Declaration and Inspection Process

Step 1: Complete the Form

Before arrival, you will receive a CBP Form 6059B (Customs Declaration). One form per family. Answer all questions truthfully and completely, listing all declared items and their values in U.S. dollars.

Step 2: Primary Inspection

Present your passport and completed declaration form to the CBP officer. Be prepared to answer questions about your trip and declarations. The officer will determine if you may proceed or if further inspection is needed.

Step 3: Secondary Inspection (If Required)

If directed, you will take your luggage to a separate area for examination. A CBP officer will inspect your bags, assess duties on declared items exceeding your exemption, and process any necessary paperwork for restricted items.

Duty and Tax Assessment

Duties are taxes levied on imported merchandise. As a returning U.S. resident, you are eligible for a personal exemption, allowing you to bring back a certain value of goods duty-free.

Traveler Status Personal Exemption Alcohol Allowance Tobacco Allowance Notes
U.S. Resident (abroad >48 hrs) $800 1 Liter 200 Cigarettes Cannot have used exemption in preceding 30 days.
U.S. Resident (abroad <48 hrs) $200 Not Applicable Not Applicable No alcohol or tobacco included.
Non-Resident Visitor $100 Not Applicable Not Applicable Gifts only; tobacco/alcohol generally not duty-free.

Paying Duties

If the total value of your declared goods exceeds your personal exemption, you will pay duty on the excess amount. Duties are calculated as a percentage of the item's value and vary by item type (harmonized tariff rate). Payment is typically made to CBP at the port of entry via cash, credit card, or check.

Required Documentation

Primary Documents

Valid Passport: Required for all international travelers. Completed CBP Form 6059B: The core declaration document. Sales Receipts: Keep receipts for purchased items to verify value for CBP.

Additional Documents (If Applicable)

FDA/USDA Permits: For certain restricted food, plants, or biological materials. Certificate of Origin: For valuable items or antiques. Prescription: For medication in its original container.

Currency and Monetary Instruments Reporting

FinCEN Form 105 Requirement

You are legally required to report if you, or members of your family traveling together, are physically carrying more than $10,000 in currency or monetary instruments (e.g., traveler's checks, money orders) into or out of the United States. This is not a limit, but a reporting requirement to combat financial crimes. Failure to report can lead to seizure of the funds and penalties.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What items must I declare when entering the USA through Georgia?

A. You must declare all items you are bringing that were acquired abroad or are duty-free, including gifts, merchandise, and any items you will sell or use in your business. This includes items in your carry-on and checked baggage, items you are mailing to yourself, and items you are carrying for another person. Specific categories include: alcohol, tobacco, currency and monetary instruments over $10,000, food products (meats, fruits, vegetables), plants, seeds, soil, biological materials, and all merchandise.

What is the process for declaring goods at a port of entry like Atlanta?

A. Upon arrival, you will submit your completed CBP Form 6059B (Customs Declaration form) to a CBP officer. All travelers must complete one form per family. You will be asked about your declarations verbally. Your baggage may be inspected. For goods exceeding your personal exemption or requiring special permits, you will be directed to a secondary inspection area for assessment of duties and taxes.

What happens if I fail to declare an item or declare it inaccurately?

A. Failure to declare items accurately can lead to civil and criminal penalties. Consequences may include seizure of the undeclared goods, monetary fines, and in cases of deliberate fraud, criminal prosecution. Penalties may include substantial fines. Always declare items honestly to avoid these serious consequences.

Are there items that are prohibited from entering the United States?

A. Yes, many items are strictly prohibited. These include narcotics and certain drugs, hazardous materials, counterfeit goods, obscene articles, and items made from endangered species. Additionally, many agricultural products (fruits, vegetables, plants, meats) are restricted to prevent the introduction of pests and diseases. Always check the latest CBP and USDA regulations before traveling.

What is the personal exemption for returning U.S. residents?

A. U.S. residents are generally allowed a personal exemption of $800 worth of goods duty-free if they have been abroad for at least 48 hours and have not used this exemption within the previous 30 days. This exemption includes 1 liter of alcohol (if you are 21 or older), 200 cigarettes, and 100 cigars (with restrictions). Amounts above the exemption are subject to duty and tax.

Do I need to declare the currency I am carrying?

A. Yes. You must file a report (FinCEN Form 105) with U.S. Customs and Border Protection if you are carrying more than $10,000 (or its foreign equivalent) in currency or monetary instruments (such as traveler's checks, money orders) when you enter or leave the United States. This is a reporting requirement, not a limit on the amount you can carry. Failure to report can result in seizure of the funds and penalties.

Can I bring food items into Georgia for personal consumption?

A. It is highly restricted. Most fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, poultry, and dairy products are prohibited from entering the United States from most foreign countries to prevent the introduction of plant pests and animal diseases. Some commercially packaged, shelf-stable items may be allowed. You must declare all food products on your customs form. Failure to do so may result in penalties.

Where can I find the official Customs Declaration Form (6059B)?

A. The CBP Form 6059B is typically distributed on your flight or vessel before arrival. You can also find a sample and information on the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection website: cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/know-before-you-go/sample-declaration-form.

Official U.S. Customs Resources

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Customs regulations are complex and subject to change. Always consult the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection (www.cbp.gov) and other relevant federal agencies for the most current and authoritative information before you travel. The penalties for non-compliance with U.S. customs laws, as outlined in Title 19 of the U.S. Code, may include substantial fines, seizure of goods, and criminal prosecution.