Certain scientific equipment can be imported into the US duty-free if the following criteria are met:
- the scientific instruments and apparatus must be used exclusively for educational purposes and scientific research, and
- the scientific instrument or apparatus, or its equivalent, is not manufactured in the United States.
If the equipment arrives at Customs before duty-free entry has been approved, or if no Request for Duty-Free Entry was made prior to the purchase, the applicant can request a delay of liquidation (Customs classifies the equipment and assesses duty). A delay of liquidation is usually granted for up to 180 days, but may be extended.
If the equipment has been received, classified and assessed, and the duty paid, a Request for Duty-Free Entry application can still be filed. This application must be filed within ninety days from the date of liquidation.
- Some categories of scientific equipment can be imported duty-free by educational institutions under certain conditions:
- A Request for Duty-Free Application should be completed and filed with the United States Customs before placing the order with the supplier. If Customs approves the duty-free purchase, the purchase order must be issued to the supplier within sixty days.
- Duty on scientific equipment is usually substantial. Departments should apply for duty-free entry well in advance of making the purchase. If duty must be paid, then departments can budget accordingly; before funds may be committed elsewhere.
- To apply for duty-free entry of scientific equipment, please contact our customs broker:
Sydney Stockwell Inc. at 339-203-4276 tom@esstockwell.com
or
Tufts Purchasing at 617-627-3225
