Bringing DESKTOP computer to the Philippines from the US RECENTLY

[Danson L.]

Hello,
I am going to the U.S. in a couple of months, and I am buying an Extreme High End Gaming DESKTOP Computer. As everyone knows here in the Philippines the Bureau of Immigration rules, regulations, orders and restrictions change constantly, sometimes from month to month. The computer will be  Custom assembled in California, and no sales invoice will be provided to state the cost of said computer.It also will NOT be in any NEW packaging inside my luggage. My question is this: Has anyone recently (In the last month or so) brought a DESKTOP computer from the US to the Philippines, and if so were any charges of any kind placed on the DESKTOP Computer? Any and all information will be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.

[suzukig1]

Exporting most computers from the U.S. requires a license.  You also have to worry about it getting stopped leaving the U.S.  Laptops don't get stopped because customs assumes they're coming back and aren't being exported.

[iamjames]

My opinion is that there should be no problem. Personal items, like a computer, should not be liable to tax.

[Lee2]

I do not know the law on exporting or importing but the below might help on exporting. Computer software often is for US use only, that being said, I doubt there would be a problem with one personal computer but maybe better to call and check.

License requirements for exporting computers https://help.cbp.gov/app/answers/detail/a_id/262/~/license-requirements-for-exporting-computers

Is a license required to export a computer?


Contact the Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) at (202) 482-4811 to inquire about license requirements.

Alternatively, check their Web site http://www.bis.doc.gov/ for the list of controlled items. The section on Export Administration Regulations is where the list can be found.

As a general rule, laptops with standard software do not require an export license.  However, it is recommended that you contact BIS at (202) 482-4811 to confirm the requirements needed for your particular situation prior to travel or exportation.

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[Big daddy Ray]

Immigrations and Customs are completely different...you need to worry about Customs for dutiable items.....Well, I don't care if it's a supped up rocket ship you bring with you back from the states....as long as it is a personal effect...then I would say it would be ok...When I moved to the Philippines in Oct 2015 I brought my 27" iMac....it is a monster in size....I bought a hardshell mixer case that I could lock and packed it well.  Looked like a huge oversized suitcase. I put it in checked baggage on Delta in Detroit and picked it up on the carousel in Manila..I had 7 bags with me....got a porter and a couple of his boys and we went right through the nothing to declare line and out to the van...they, (Customs)... didn't even look twice....it was my personal "New" computer....to CYA...I would suggest writing a letter to yourself from a bogus company stating the computer was "Repaired under warranty" and put it in the box...pack it well and bring it on....I for one...act like I own the airline and have no time for small matters such as "customs"....(for the record...I am not a smuggler on a bad guy.)...hahaha!...all I am saying...if you look nervous they will see it and ask you..."whats in the box"...IMO....you will be fine...just like iamjames said....it's your personal property. You are not an exporter or importer of commercial goods...they shouldn't care. BUT...Don't pack any bullets....that would be no fun...hehehe!..Have fun and be safe!

[FastWalk]

Never had any issues with shipping things in personal luggage or in balikbayan box(s).  Shipping in larger items via freight companies is a very different treatment.

[JoeLP]

Well, my reading comprehension status took a hit on that last reply.  Allow me to modify.

I don't have a clue.  LOL  Seems that the airport securities/customs and all would treat the computers, be they laptop or desktop the same.  But I have no clue.

I'd be very careful if you are looking to use the LBC box to send.  I have them sent to me every year and before moving here I sent them.  But, I'd just get the biggest box, pack it, and send it.  Sometimes the boxes come squished and all.  So they are not handled with the greatest care.  Maybe they have a whole "fragile" status thing going, but even then, I still wouldn't trust the locals here to notice or care about such stickers on the boxes.  But, again, it's all guesswork on my side. 

I suggest you just call or email someone from customs.  I'm sure if you google enough and search enough you'll be fine.  I'd ignore telling them the costs and all and just tell them it's your personal computer and you don't like laptops...or something. 

[Danson L.]

My Goodness, my FIRST Sentence in the post said DESKTOP Computer, I don't understand how this could be misunderstood. I know all about the LAPTOP computers, as I have been here for 15 years and made many trips back and forth to the the U.S holding onto a laptop. This post was about DESKTOP, DESKTOP, DESKTOP ONLY.
Thanks many times for all the wonderful information ie, U.S. Customs and Border Protection,  and ALL the POSTS. It is greatly appreciated. At 75 years old I don't like any problems at anytime, anywhere, any place, for any reason.!!!! hahahaha My motto is be PREPARED for the WORST that can happen, and HOPE for the BEST!!!!! Ya'll the best on this forum. THANKS again  >> Dan
P. S. I DID learn that if a DESKTOP computer is valued at over $2500.00, an EEI Form must be submitted to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency  [Thanks to Mr. Lee]  and Big Daddy Ray's information was outstanding also. 

[keimachd]

Have you considered sending it here via a balikbyan box?