What is a "contraband" item in CBP terms?

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In CBP terms, contraband refers to goods that are illegal to possess or import, or that are legally restricted and require permits or regulatory compliance. This includes items that must not be brought in at all (like illegal drugs) as well as items that can be brought in only with the proper authorization (such as certain agricultural products and regulated goods). That broader definition is why this option is the best: it covers both completely prohibited items and those that are restricted but can be allowed with the right permits and adherence to rules. An item that is legal but restricted isn’t automatically contraband if you have the proper permit and follow the requirements. Items allowed without limits aren’t contraband, and declaring value thresholds relates to how you declare goods, not whether they are contraband.