1. Electronics & Gadgets

Proving Ownership to U.S. Customs - Certificate of Registration (CBP 4457)

Traveling with your mobile gear

From , former About.com Guide

Before you pack up your gear for a business trip outside the U.S. you will need to obtain and complete a Certificate of Registration (CBP 4457). This is a small document you will keep on your person and it is valid for as long as you own the mobile gadgets listed on it. You show it to Customs when returning to the United States.

The purpose of this document is to provide acceptable proof to Customs that you own the mobile gadgets and did not purchase them while traveling outside the country. The alternative to obtaining this certificate is carrying around all purchase receipts for your mobile gear.

If you do not provide acceptable proof to Customs you may have to pay duty and/or taxes on your mobile gear, even though you did not purchase it outside the United States.

You must take all your mobile gear to your nearest Customs office with the completed form and present it for registration. Make sure you take all your mobile gear, even items you don't think you'll take this time, you might change your mind later.

Important Note:
Any repairs, upgrades or other modifications made while you were traveling must be declared and you will have to pay any applicable duty and/or taxes on those.

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