Importing car parts through airport customs - anyone do this?

[Maxhouse97]

Traveling to Germany on a business trip and had a crazy idea. I've purchased things before in the EU and had the VAT returned to me (most of it) at the airport. I've had my eye on those Eisenmann 42mm SSIs, and was wondering if I could buy them there and stuff them in two suitcases to take back with me.

Other than size, I'm most concerned with US customs when I come back. What will they charge me? Has anyone done this? I googled some stuff and read about EPA forms, etc. Don't want to mess with that.

[merlinfe]

If-y at best. All it would take is one curious baggage handler to know what they are looking at then *poof* your new exhaust is gone. Doubt the airlines would cover your loss.

-Steve

[HaroldMHedge]

I have moved a number of parts in my luggage between the US and Malaysia. Large parts that I've carried include European Racing Headers and a front valance. I have not lost anything during the shipments but you can declare the item to the airline and pay to insure it. If the items will not fit in your luggage watch the package girth and weight. If the girth is too large the airline will not accept it.

For US Customs, just declare it on the Customs Declaration form and pay the duty. Check with Eisenmann for the correct Harmonization Code. A quick search of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (2017 HTSA Basic Edition) came up with this.

Heading/Subheading - 9902.40.94
Strat Suffix - 1
Article Description - Cast stainless steel single-piece exhaust gas manifolds, suitable for use solely or principally with spark-ignition internal combustion engines and certified by the importer as capable of withstanding exhaust gas temperatures of 900˚ C or higher (provided for in subheading 9902.01.50)
General Duty Rate - 0.6%

I believe a number of PP members are wanting more information on this exhaust system. Their system incorporating the heat cross over pipe is sweet.

Cheers,
Harold

[Maxhouse97]

Sweet - thanks. That general duty rate of 0.6% - does that mean that's all I have to pay?

[HaroldMHedge]

Opps, I quoted an old code. Code 9902.40.94 was used on or before 12/31/2012.

Here is the corrected code which I believe is correct.

Heading/Subheading - 8708.92.10
Strat. Suffix - 00
Article Description - Mufflers and exhaust pipes; parts thereof:
Mufflers and exhaust pipes:
For other vehicles
General Duty Rate Column 1 - 2.5%
Rate for Column 2 (Since we trade with Germany this should not apply.) - 25%

So after researching this some more I believe the rate would be 2.5%. You should check with someone who ships things all the time. I was just moving parts for myself.

Harold