Shipping a Computer to India

sgcarney

I'm a journalist based in Chennai using an old computer that desperately needs updating. I have my mind set on buying a new Mac, but unfortunately the prices for Macs in India is super-inflated because of customs duty. Macs in India are almost 30% more expensive that the states. I know it's possible to buy a new mac in the USA and then bring it back with you on the plane, but I don't have any plans to head back to the states any time soon.

So here's my question: what are the customs rules for buying a Mac desktop in the states and shipping it to my home here? Will I have to pay duty on it? Are there any ways around this (like opening the box first and saying it is for personal use--which it would be)?

Has anyone else found a way around this problem?

Scott

Nick-H

I find there is a simple answer to these type of questions: if there was an easy way around it, customs would never collect any duty.

Sorry, but I really do feel that is the situation.

You will find the rules and the rates of duty here or nearby on that same site.

Laptops is easy, if you have friends coming; they can bring in one each! Desktop machines not so, I'm afraid.

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crvlvr

If you ship it, you will end up paying the same, if not more, duty that the factory is paying which results in the street prices being more expensive. There is no duty on up to one computer if you bring with you.

Were you thinking of laptop of desktop? If it is a desktop, you will prbably get reamed by the airlines for excess baggage.

Nick-H

There is no duty on up to one laptop if you are bringing it with you. Important distinction!