Prior to Covid SIP, many reputable Japanese resellers shipped via EMS. I sometimes paid no customs although the full value was always declared. In the fine print, these japanese resellers explained that they could not legally under declare value or mark as a gift. During Covid SIP and afterwards, resellers shipped via DHL. I would sometimes be required to pay 10% (in theory customs plus applicable state sales tax), with the 800 USD exemption outlined by
@nicole0612, prior to the delivery of the package. This is my recollection, which may be imperfect, and of course only my personal experience
Note: when a response cautions not to do x,y,z, for example, ask for lower declared value, it may not be intended as any kind of judgment, but rather a general caution, written not just to the instant query but also to anyone reading the public thread. Most of those who answer, have answered the same questions many times before, and are trying to be as comprehensive as possible. It is disheartening (even if a particular comment is not directed at me personally) to read criticism of a post as judgmental or presuming. I am not directing this statement at any one poster in this thread, as I’ve found this issue recently on other threads, namely NY shopping thread and unpopular opinions.
