Goods Across Borders · Customs rule card
Body Armour → United States
Purpose: Traveling · Verified: 2026-08-22
Body Armour restricted; documentation or permits may apply
Details
Body Armour restricted; documentation or permits may apply. Documentation: Check destination requirements. Enforcement in United States carries fines from USD 300 to USD 10,000 under 19 USC § 1497 (failure to declare); 19 USC § 1592 (fraudulent entry) (ordinary personal cases are handled as civil infringements). Restricted status means compliant carriage is achievable with the right paperwork and quantities; the practical risks are seizure, duty, and delay rather than criminal liability for a good-faith traveller. Arrival checks are carried out by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP); when in doubt use the declare (red) channel — declared goods at worst attract duty or surrender, while undeclared goods attract penalties. Leaving United States with body armour is a separate question: restricted — Body armour is a dual-use controlled good; export from United States above civilian protection levels requires authorisation.
Documentation required
- Check destination requirements
Leaving with this item
Body armour is a dual-use controlled good; export from United States above civilian protection levels requires authorisation.
Practical advice
United States restricts import of Body Armour to specific licensed categories. Both origin export and destination import permits are required — typically obtained in advance with 4-12 weeks lead time. Verify the specific category classification at the destination Ministry of Interior or National Police portal.
Customs authority
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) · https://www.cbp.gov