Counterfeit Goods → United States

Seizure and penalties for counterfeit goods

Details

US Customs and Border Protection actively seizes counterfeit goods at ports of entry. Travelers found with counterfeit designer goods, electronics, or other IP-infringing items face confiscation and potential civil fines. Repeat offenders may face criminal charges.

Quantity limit

Any quantity of counterfeit trademarked goods is prohibited; personal-use exception does NOT apply — CBP seizes even single items

Documentation required

• No permits available — counterfeit goods are seized and may be referred to IPR prosecution unit
• CBP Form 6051S (seizure notice) issued upon confiscation

Legal reference

Trademark Counterfeiting Act, 18 USC 2320

Surrender at customs

CBP accepts voluntary surrender of counterfeit goods. Proactively declare at primary inspection or Red Channel. CBP Form 6051S (Seizure Notice) issued. Voluntary surrender avoids civil penalty under 19 USC §1526 and referral to IPR prosecution.

Practical advice

Even one counterfeit item can be seized. CBP does not distinguish between 'personal use' and 'commercial' for counterfeits.

Customs authority

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) · https://www.cbp.gov