Introduction: Ordering Swords and Knives From Overseas
Ordering a sword or knife from another country is exciting — whether it’s a Japanese katana, a Viking blade, or a medieval replica. However, buying blades internationally involves more than simply adding an item to your cart. Many new collectors aren’t sure which countries allow sword imports, how customs works, or what fees to expect once their package arrives.
This guide is for buyers in the United States, Canada, Oceania, Europe, South Africa, and Latin America who want to understand how international sword and knife shipping works, including import laws, tariffs, and delivery times, so you can order confidently and avoid surprises at customs.
1. Can You Legally Buy Knives and Swords From Overseas?
In most regions, it’s perfectly legal to import knives and swords for personal collection, training, or decorative purposes. Customs agencies simply want to ensure the item isn’t a prohibited weapon, disguised, or intended for harm.
Your item’s acceptance depends on:
- Type of blade (single-edged, double-edged, folding, fixed, etc.)
- Purpose (collectible, martial arts, or display)
- Materials (some natural materials like ivory or horn may be restricted)
- Country laws where the item is being imported
Most countries allow hand-forged katanas, replica swords, and utility knives without issue when declared correctly.
2. Import Laws by Region and Country
United States
The US allows the import of most swords and knives for collectors and martial artists.
Allowed: katanas, sabers, longswords, hunting knives, and replicas.
Banned: switchblades, butterfly knives, concealed or disguised weapons (like sword-canes).
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) checks all packages, but shipments usually clear smoothly when properly described as “collectible sword” or “martial arts training blade.”
Expect clearance in 3–10 days, with 2–5% import duty depending on value.
Canada
Canada permits the import of most knives and swords for decorative or martial arts use.
Banned: switchblades, gravity knives, and push daggers.
Customs typically applies 5% GST plus 6–10% duty, and clearance takes 5–12 business days.
Oceania (Australia & New Zealand)
Australia is one of the most regulated regions. Importing functional swords may require a permit under the Weapons Prohibition Act. Hand-forged katanas or reenactment swords are typically approved for martial arts or display purposes.
New Zealand allows swords and knives for collection or training with few restrictions, though switchblades remain banned.
Expect 10% GST and 3–6 weeks shipping time due to inspection or permit verification.
South Africa
Swords and knives are legal to own and import if declared. Customs prohibits automatic or hidden blades. Expect ~10% duty, modest inspection fees, and 2–4 weeks delivery.
Central & South America
- Mexico: Decorative or martial arts swords allowed; functional combat weapons restricted.
- Brazil & Argentina: Collectible and decorative swords are legal with duties between 10–20%.
- Chile & Colombia: Imports allowed with cultural or sports use declaration; may require an affidavit or approval.
Shipping can take 3–5 weeks with moderate customs delays.
Europe (EU and EFTA Countries)
The European Union allows the import of knives and swords when intended for personal use, martial arts, or display. Customs and VAT apply based on declared value, typically 2–12% duty plus 17–25% VAT, depending on the country. Below are the details for key destinations:
- Germany: Legal for collectors and martial artists. Double-edged or disguised blades are banned.
- France: Decorative swords are fine, but sharpened swords may require declaration as “sports equipment.”
- Italy: Legal to import swords and knives for collection or sport. Concealed or automatic blades are banned. Customs applies 22% VAT and inspection fees may apply.
- Spain: Collectors can freely import swords and knives for decorative or martial arts use. Double-edged combat knives are restricted. Expect 21% VAT.
- Poland: Functional and decorative swords allowed. Restricted items include automatic knives and disguised weapons. VAT around 23%.
- Sweden: Imports of swords and knives for collectors are legal, but any weapon intended for self-defense is restricted. 25% VAT applies.
- Denmark: Decorative swords are permitted, but edged weapons meant for combat are restricted. 25% VAT applies.
- Norway: Legal to import collectible swords and knives, but self-defense weapons are banned. Import duties range from 10–20% plus 25% VAT.
- Switzerland: Not part of the EU, but allows sword and knife imports for collection, martial arts, or display. Double-edged daggers and switchblades are prohibited. 7.7% VAT applies.
- Greece: Decorative swords and martial arts blades are generally permitted, but automatic knives are prohibited. Expect 24% VAT.
3. Customs, Duties, and Import Taxes
When your sword or knife crosses a border, customs agencies may charge import duties and taxes based on declared value and item type.
| Region | Typical Import Tax | Extra Fees | Average Clearance |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | 2–5% duty | Clearance fee | 3–10 days |
| EU (Germany, Italy, Spain, etc.) | 2–12% duty + 17–25% VAT | Handling €10–€25 | 5–14 days |
| UK | 2–12% duty + 20% VAT | Brokerage fee | 5–10 days |
| Canada | 5% GST + up to 10% duty | Customs broker fee | 5–12 days |
| Australia | 10% GST | Permit inspection fee | 10–20 days |
| Norway & Switzerland | 7.7–25% VAT | Border service fee | 7–14 days |
| Latin America | 10–20% duty | Local fee | 10–25 days |
Most express couriers (DHL, UPS, FedEx) handle customs clearance automatically and will contact you if payment is required before delivery.
4. Shipping Times and What to Expect
Delivery times vary depending on origin, courier, and customs.
| Route | Standard | Express |
|---|---|---|
| USA → EU | 10–20 business days | 5–7 days |
| USA → Canada | 7–12 business days | 3–5 days |
| USA → Australia/NZ | 14–25 business days | 5–8 days |
| USA → South America | 20–35 business days | 7–10 days |
| USA → South Africa | 14–25 business days | 6–9 days |
Delays often happen during customs inspections or public holidays. Express options typically offer faster clearance and more reliable tracking.
5. How to Avoid Problems at Customs
To make sure your order arrives smoothly:
- Buy from reputable sellers who know export documentation like Pacific Armory.
- Avoid prohibited designs (automatic knives, double-edged daggers, sword-canes).
- Ensure accurate labeling — “collectible sword” or “replica katana” is better than “weapon.”
- Keep all receipts and invoices in case customs requests verification.
- Expect to pay taxes; they’re normal, not extra seller fees.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will my sword or knife be confiscated at customs?
Only if it violates local import laws or is declared incorrectly. Decorative and martial arts blades pass inspection in most countries.
Q: Can I legally import a real katana?
Yes — real katanas are allowed in most countries including the US, EU (Germany, Italy, Spain, Poland, etc.), Canada, and Oceania when used for martial arts, collection, or display.
Q: Do I pay taxes or does the seller?
The buyer pays customs duty and VAT upon arrival. Your courier (FedEx, DHL, etc.) will send an invoice before delivery.
Q: Are decorative or stainless-steel swords treated differently?
No — customs still classifies them as edged items, though they often clear faster since they’re not functional.
Q: Can I import multiple swords at once?
Yes, but large orders may be flagged for resale and taxed differently. It’s best to contact customs if importing more than two or three at a time.
7. Tips for International Sword Buyers
- Research your country’s import law before ordering.
- Buy from trusted sellers that provide detailed invoices and tracking.
- Use express shipping for faster customs clearance.
- Always declare the correct value — under-declaring can lead to confiscation.
- Opt for insurance coverage on expensive swords.
- Be patient — customs inspections are routine for bladed items.
Conclusion: Ordering With Confidence
Buying swords and knives internationally is entirely possible — and legal — for enthusiasts, collectors, and martial artists across the US, Canada, Europe, Oceania, South Africa, and Latin America. Every country has slightly different laws, but by declaring your order properly, understanding your region’s import taxes, and purchasing from reputable sources, your blade can arrive safely and without hassle.
Owning a finely crafted sword from overseas is more than a purchase — it’s a connection to craftsmanship and history that spans continents. With this guide, you can order confidently knowing what’s legal, what to expect, and how to ensure your sword clears customs the right way.