TL;DR: for a long time, small parcels sent to the US could enter without duty under a low value exemption called de minimis. That exemption has been changed, so a ring sent from the UK to the US may now be subject to duty and tax, and the customer pays these. Rules change often, so check current guidance. We are jewellers, not advisers, and we explain what to expect in writing before you order. Pieces start from £600.
What de minimis was
De minimis is a threshold below which low value parcels could be cleared without duty. It affected many online purchases from overseas. Changes to it mean parcels that once passed through may now be assessed.
What this means for a ring
A bespoke ring is a high value item, and it was never likely to qualify for a low value exemption. Duty and tax on jewellery depend on its classification, its materials and its value. We cannot give you a figure, because it depends on the specific piece and on the rules in force when it arrives.
Who pays
The customer pays import duty and tax. We explain this in writing before you order, so there are no surprises at the door.
How the charge is collected
For parcels sent by courier, the carrier usually acts as the customs broker. It pays the charges to the authorities on your behalf and then asks you to settle them, often with a separate handling fee. You may receive an email or text with a link to pay before delivery, or be asked to pay on the doorstep. To avoid scams, check any request by entering your tracking number on the carrier's own website. See DDP or DAP: what the shipping terms mean.
How to plan
- Check current US guidance from the relevant authority.
- Ask your carrier how duty is collected.
- Include duty and tax in your budget.
- Make sure someone is available to receive the parcel.
The value we declare
We declare the value of your order on the customs forms. Our guide to ten questions international customers ask explains the basics. Our guide to reading your invoice and certificate shows what the invoice contains, and our guide on why the true value goes on a customs form explains why we cannot understate it.
Origin of the ring
Customs rules may depend on where goods are made. Ask us about this and we explain in writing what we can say about the ring you commission. See tariffs, sanctions and diamond origin.
Why the change matters to buyers
Many people have shopped online from overseas for years without paying anything at the door. That experience can make duty feel like a surprise for a ring. The sensible approach is to treat duty and tax as part of the cost of the ring, to ask us what to expect, and to check the official position near the time you order, because rules in this area have moved more than once.
Insurance and your records
Keep the customs receipt along with the invoice. If you insure the ring locally, your insurer may want to know the full amount you paid, including duty and tax. See insuring a ring bought from the UK in the US.
If the parcel is held
Respond promptly to any request for documents. Our guide to what to do if a ring is held at customs explains the steps, and our guide to what comes in the box shows what is in the parcel.
Working with us
We work by video consultation and message, send sketches and CAD renders, and make nothing until you approve the design in writing. Standard making time is 5 to 6 weeks, varying with your location and how busy we are. Delivery is insured and tracked with FedEx.
Frequently asked questions
Will I pay duty on a ring from the UK?
Possibly. The customer pays import duty and tax, and rules change.
How much?
It depends on the piece and the current rules. We explain what to expect in writing.
Is there a handling fee as well?
Carriers often charge one for clearing the parcel, separate from duty and tax.
Can you ship duty paid?
We explain the shipping terms we offer in writing before you order.
Is delivery insured?
Yes, insured and tracked.