is customs BEFORE the luggage claim at JFK?

Question

Im trying to remember and cant - do you go through customs before you get your luggage? Thanks

Answer 1

I cannot speak for JFK. However, anytime I have pass through customs at other airports, I had to present my credentials to a customs agent before retrieving my checked luggage. Then you have a secondary check point for random bag search. So, pack your credentials in your carry-on luggage.

Answer 2

First you go through immigration, then you pick up luggage, then go through customs. You must always have your luggage before going through customs because that's what customs is all about! (What are you bringing in).

If you have a connecting flight, you will be able to recheck your luggage on the other side of the customs booth. There are always representatives from the airlines there, and rechecking is very fast.

Answer 3

I don't know specifically about JFK but at O'Hare in Chicago I had to go through customs before I got my Luggage. I just got back from Germany about a week and a half ago.

Answer 4

You always go after you get your luggage. If it was the other way around people would get all kinds of crazy things into the country

Answer 5

Immigration, luggage pickup, customs.

Answer 6

No immigration first then luggage then customs.

Answer 7

You pick up your luggage and get in line at Customs.
International flights use a unique terminal.

Answer 8

2 hours is way more than enough unless you're like in a wheelchair.

Answer 9

you wish!