Quote:
Originally Posted by selchie
It seems like coming up with an inventory of things you're bringing would be good. I think customs and MAF would like to see that. Plus, you can identify items which might need to be decontaminated (e.g. garden tools, camping gear) or checked for pests (e.g. wooden items).
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Oh, Selchie, you don't know how right you are! Our movers put one word descriptions for each packed box on our inventory. Not what MAF wanted to see. Make sure each box's contents are descriptively labeled on the outside of the box and on the inventory/manifest.
Red Flags for MAF:
Any boxes you packed yourself if professional movers are involved
Any items made of cane, wicker or bamboo
Any items labeled "decor" or "decorations" (not descriptive enough)
Replica swords or firearms (even if they're are non-functioning models)
Prescription drugs (have a written prescription from doctor)
Cat litter or pet toys
Garden tools (steam clean and then wrap in plastic)
We had all of the above and that's what MAF inspected. We brought all sorts of liquor and loads of new furniture. Supposedly, both of those categories would have duties levied. We declared them and one prescription bottle of Vicodin (leftover from childbirth). After inspecting all of the above, all MAF wanted was the "drugs" which they couldn't locate. We were told to deliver the Vicodin in a sealed plastic bag to our moving company once we unpacked it, and they would forward it to MAF. It was a BIG deal. Turns out I had packed it in my carryon and would not have had to declare it (oops). And we were never taxed on the booze or furniture.