Customs means many things to many people. To the international traveler, Customs is the men and women in blue at the border station, airport or seaport who examine personal baggage upon return to the States. To the importer, Customs provides advice, protection and control of merchandise shipped into the country. To the smuggler, Customs is the planes, vessels, vehicles and dedicated people constantly monitoring the nation's perimeter to thwart smuggling and attempts at illicit entry of merchandise.
As an international traveler, you should be aware of the rules of bringing items back from your trip. Please visit the U.S. Customs Service site for a Know Before You Go brochure before you travel abroad.