When you have a connecting flight internationally do you have to go through customs?

Navigating Customs When Connecting on International Flights

International travel often involves connecting flights, which can raise questions about customs procedures. In the United States, passengers with connecting flights must go through customs upon arrival.

Retrieving Luggage and Clearing Customs

Upon arrival, international travelers must retrieve their checked luggage from the baggage claim area. They will then proceed to the customs and immigration checkpoint, where they will declare any goods they have brought into the country and potentially undergo a baggage inspection.

Rechecking Luggage

Once passengers have cleared customs, they need to re-check their luggage for their connecting flight. If the subsequent flight departs from a different terminal, they may need to transfer to the correct terminal via airport shuttle or other means of transportation.

Mandatory Process for Onward Travel

Going through customs and rechecking luggage is a mandatory process for all passengers with connecting flights within the United States. Passengers who fail to do so may miss their connecting flight or face penalties.

Exceptions

There are a few exceptions to this rule. Passengers who are:

• Traveling on a single ticket with the same airline and have checked in their luggage straight through to their final destination
• Flying on a self-connecting flight, where they have purchased separate tickets for each leg of their journey
• Part of a tour group with a prearranged baggage transfer service

may not need to go through customs and recheck their luggage. It is important to check with the airline and tour operator for specific instructions in these cases.

Preparation

To make the customs and luggage rechecking process as smooth as possible, it is recommended that passengers:

• Declare any prohibited or restricted items they are carrying
• Pack their bags in an organized manner to facilitate inspection
• Allow ample time for customs procedures and the transfer to their connecting flight
• Familiarize themselves with the airport layout and terminal transfer options

By following these guidelines, travelers can ensure a seamless and stress-free experience when connecting on international flights.