Import Costs to USA?

[peonies13]

Does anyone know how "import duties" (or whatever one calls that) work if you purchase a preloved bag from outside the USA and ship to California? I'm considering a couple of preloved bags that are located in Japan and one in UK. Would appreciate understanding what costs / hassles I should expect.

One related factor is the shipper offered: "I can write lower value than actual price if you wish and that is an amount that is guaranteed in the accident.Please consider this item." - is this a good idea?

Also these are returnable but is returning to another country even a realistic thing to do or is the hassle factor just too high?

 

[Love Of My Life]

Does anyone know how "import duties" (or whatever one calls that) work if you purchase a preloved bag from outside the USA and ship to California? I'm considering a couple of preloved bags that are located in Japan and one in UK. Would appreciate understanding what costs / hassles I should expect.

One related factor is the shipper offered: "I can write lower value than actual price if you wish and that is an amount that is guaranteed in the accident.Please consider this item." - is this a good idea?

Also these are returnable but is returning to another country even a realistic thing to do or is the hassle factor just too high?

I try to stay away from international transactions for a multitude of reasons including "import duties",
many of which are unknown & sometimes extra handling fees by third parties,
misrepresentation of item (primarily condition) lost package, damaged package etc.
I'm not too fond of sellers who are willing to declare a lower value on the package.. it opens up doors
that may not be so pleasant especially if your package should get "opened' & packages do!
Your choice of course & should you decide to make the purchase, hope it all works out well