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What experiences exist when buying fountain pens from non-EU countries (especially USA) regarding customs, import VAT and effort?

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On deliveries from the USA, from a goods value of around 22 euros, import VAT (19 %) and from 150 euros additionally customs duty apply; often the parcel is held until personal collection at customs, which means a time effort. Sometimes a shipment is not declared and comes through directly, but this is luck. The weaker euro reduces the price advantage additionally. Anyone wanting to avoid the effort better waits for an equivalent offer within the EU. As a price guide on used Meisterstücks, about half the new price applies; ended eBay auctions provide realistic market values.

Note: The fountainpen.de FAQ knowledge base is based on collector discussions from over 20 years. Specific market prices may be outdated — the underlying methodology remains valid. Back to FAQ overview ›

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