You really have to understand the Harmonized System (HS) Codes and how they are applied for each type of item you import. It's very confusing and they don't make it easy.
https://www.trade.gov/harmonized-system-hs-codes
I Import many items from around the world and for the most part I pay 4.9%. Depending on the carrier there are other "fees" they add on and UPS is the worst for doing this but it's not hundreds but they do add up. I sent back to Germany a tonearm to be repaired and the cost of the repair was $700 which I was invoiced for and UPS charged me just under $40 for Import Duties and fees.
What I would have your person selling you the item do is make sure they place on the shipping documents "used equipment" or "pre-owned" something that shows it's not brand new. But be sure to have it valued for what you are paying and make sure the seller insures the item for that value. If he doesn't and there is any damage you will only collect whatever he insures the item for.
Good luck and keep all posted.
(Dealer disclaimer)
https://www.trade.gov/harmonized-system-hs-codes
I Import many items from around the world and for the most part I pay 4.9%. Depending on the carrier there are other "fees" they add on and UPS is the worst for doing this but it's not hundreds but they do add up. I sent back to Germany a tonearm to be repaired and the cost of the repair was $700 which I was invoiced for and UPS charged me just under $40 for Import Duties and fees.
What I would have your person selling you the item do is make sure they place on the shipping documents "used equipment" or "pre-owned" something that shows it's not brand new. But be sure to have it valued for what you are paying and make sure the seller insures the item for that value. If he doesn't and there is any damage you will only collect whatever he insures the item for.
Good luck and keep all posted.
(Dealer disclaimer)