Watch: Personal Effects vs Household Goods
Personal effects generally refer to belongings used by an individual, while household goods usually refer to furnishings and other items used within a home.
Video Transcript
“What is the difference between personal effects and household goods when shipping belongings to America?
This 35-second guide explains how these terms are commonly used in international moving and why their U.S. customs treatment can differ.
Personal effects generally include belongings used by an individual, such as clothing, jewelry, cameras and personal electronics.
Household goods usually include furnishings used in the home, such as furniture, tableware, linens, books and artwork.
Shipping providers may use these descriptions broadly, but writing ‘personal effects’ on a shipment does not automatically determine its customs treatment or guarantee duty-free entry.
For U.S. entry, possible duty-free treatment may depend on ownership, how long the belongings were used abroad, their intended use and the supporting documents submitted.
Unaccompanied shipments may require CBP Form 3299.
New purchases, commercial goods, restricted articles and items intended for sale require separate review.
Always provide an accurate inventory and confirm current requirements with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, your customs broker or moving provider.”
