If I’m not mistaken, one can bring in a tv under a certain size without having to pay taxes. Is that correct?
- Thread starter Gordonpsl
- Start date
Importing TVs
There’s an import tax amnesty normally in effect December into January for Dominicans flying in who haven’t been there in at least 6 months. I forget the dollar amount ($1500?? $3000??). I saw several people with new-in-box televisions going through customs. The dates and amount is normally announced in late November
https://www.eps.com.do/en/regulaciones-y-restricciones/ I often refer to this for when I have similar questions. I don't see any exceptions based on the size of the TV. For those who fall into the category AE refers to...happy holiday shopping!
And if you are not a returning Dominican you can bring in goods valued at $500 or under duty free. This restriction is limited to once every three months.
Finally, and I believe it still exists, individual gifts under $200.00 sent with the various freight forwarders are also duty free.
For all those scenarios, be prepared to show "real" invoices.
Respectfully,
Playacaribe2
I wasn't aware of that $500 exception. That made me think though...since using a courier service requires us to register with Aduana, wouldn't it be nice if there was a one-time annual exception for a $500 or less delivery? Especially when it's getting close to time for a new laptop for me!
There is something to be said about buying a name brand TV like 65" Samsung...going to the many, many stores offering a wide array of models and sizes, putting it in your car, going home and enjoying it. Stress free...the key to successful living in wonderland.
Well it depends, at Sams here I can get a 65 in LG Smart TV for $400. Where as at PriceMart there it cost $877.00 So it depends on airline cost and the aggravation of being it. Also I’m sure Black Friday and Holiday sales you could find it cheaper.
I agree with @irishpaddy as far as the headache of messing around with a big TV box in the airport. But, for some it may be worth the effort. If it's under $500, the gift exception @playacaribe2 should apply, so no additional fees from Aduana. If not, that additional 30% in fees definitely has to be factored into the decision.
I will always remember what my father used to say, cheaper is not always better.
The air freight costs alone on a 65" tv would negate any savings. That size, 65" is best sent via a mudanza if one is so inclined.
As a reminder, the TV brand/model you buy in the DR is not necessarily the TV/model you will get in the US. Worth repeating is that many items for sale in the DR are made of lower quality materials specifically for their market.
By way of example, a booming business was, and still may be, shipping used washers, dryers, stoves etc. to the DR. Again because of the quality of the components, thickness of the metal, for those items made outside the DR, etc.
Finally, for those old enough to remember, one store in particular was passing off "refurbed" products as new.
There is no right or wrong answer as to whether to buy new there or ship in new/used. It is personal preference.
Respectfully,
Playacaribe2
I have a friend that his job is to do all paperworks to clear containers coming to DR in any port, and he told me that his biggest mistake was to bring a TV. He said its way better to buy here than import.