How to Declare Goods at Customs in West Virginia, United States

Warning: Providing false or incomplete information on a customs declaration is a violation of federal law. Consequences may include seizure of goods, and penalties may include substantial fines.

Step 1: Complete the Declaration Form

Fill out CBP Form 6059B honestly and completely before disembarking. Each family member should complete their own form. List all items acquired abroad, including gifts and purchases.

Step 2: Prepare for Inspection

Have your passport, completed form, and receipts for purchased items readily available. Be ready to present your luggage for inspection if requested by a CBP officer.

Step 3: Declare to CBP Officer

Proceed to the primary inspection area. Present your documents and verbally confirm your declaration. Answer the officer's questions truthfully and directly.

Step 4: Secondary Inspection (If Needed)

If directed, proceed to secondary inspection for a more detailed examination of your goods and documents. Cooperate fully with officers.

Step 5: Pay Applicable Duties

If duties are owed, you will be instructed on payment methods (cash, credit card, etc.). Payment is typically made immediately at the port of entry.

Agricultural and Food Products

Most fresh fruits, vegetables, plants, seeds, soil, and meats are prohibited or require special permits from the USDA. Declare all such items.

Medications and Drugs

Prescription medications must be in their original containers with the doctor's prescription. Many over-the-counter drugs in other countries are controlled substances in the U.S. Check FDA regulations.

Cultural Artifacts and Wildlife Products

Items made from endangered species (ivory, tortoiseshell, certain furs) or certain cultural artifacts may be restricted under international treaties (CITES) and U.S. law.

Alcohol and Tobacco

There are limits on the amount of alcohol and tobacco you can bring in duty-free. Quantities over the limit are subject to duty and taxes.

Note on Insurance: Personal travel insurance rarely covers customs duties or fines for undeclared goods. Insurance may cover loss or damage to declared items during inspection if documented.

CBP Declaration Form 6059B

The core document. Must be signed, listing all articles acquired abroad, their value, and answering all questions on restrictions.

Valid Passport and Visa

Required for identity and admission verification. Must be valid for the duration of your stay.

Commercial Invoice (For Merchandise)

If bringing commercial samples or goods for sale, a commercial invoice detailing value, quantity, and description is required.

Receipts and Proof of Purchase

Carry receipts for valuable items purchased abroad. This helps verify value and origin, speeding up the duty assessment process.

FinCEN Form 105

Mandatory if you are transporting currency or monetary instruments totaling more than $10,000 into or out of the United States.

Official Languages at Ports

All primary CBP procedures and forms are in English. Communication with officers is primarily in English.

Translation Services

Major international airports (like Washington Dulles, a common gateway) may have access to telephonic interpretation services for common languages in emergency or complex situations.

Form Availability

Form 6059B is available in multiple languages (Spanish, French, Japanese, etc.) for reference, but the submitted copy must be the English version. Instructions may be available in other languages.

Traveler Tip

If you are not proficient in English, consider preparing a written summary of your declared items in English or traveling with someone who can assist with translation.