Do I still need to pay import tax if I end up returning the watch I purchased online

[lsong0905]

Hello,

I live in the US and purchased a PP from an online store based in Germany. However, I ended up returning the watch for personal reasons, and recently received a mail from Fedex (carrier) stating that I need to pay customs duty. I provided proof of document (invoice) showing that the watch has been returned, but they are saying that I still need to pay the duty regardless. Is this correct? Can anyone who has gone through this situation confirm?

[Tools]

I expect the issue here is that Fedex paid the import duty on your behalf, therefore they are seeking to be reimbursed.

It may be that you need paperwork from Fedex to submit to customs to get your money back.

Seek legal advice as non-payment or ignoring a lawful request for payment could have repercussions.

[KY..]

I had something similar happen with a C24 purchase where I had to return a purchased item back to the seller in Italy via DHL.
The seller was charged customs fees even though it was documented as a purchase return to seller.

[Calatrava r]

It maybe that you did import the item into the US. What you did with it after that is irrelevant to fact the item entered the US at your request. The good news is the duties are very reasonable in the US. Good luck in obtaining a refund if you pursue it.

[kvam]

Let us know how it goes. I would be very interested to see if you get it back.

Thanks.