My husband and I (both American citizens) have recently moved back to the United States from living abroad for the past 4 years. In that time, we have acquired some household goods and souvenirs. The company that shipped our goods from Italy to the US has said that we have to pay a VAT. I do not understand why we have to pay a VAT on items that are used. The majority of our items are clothes, books and a few paintings. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks

