I know there have been several threads on this, but I haven't been able to find specific information. So, here's the story; I am expecting some 3 tanned hides, and 3 European (skull) mounts. Has anyone got things like these through Fish and Wildlife, Customs etc. themselves. What steps would one have to go through? I know that many have recommended using a customs broker, but how much "on site" time is actually involved? I would have to travel to the POE, but as it is just a long drive, I would rather do this than pay for airfreight shipping from the POE to my airport.
Thanks, peter.

Peter



I dont know the logistics to clear it yourself, BUT it certainly can be done and has been done successfully by some, there will be guests whom can tell you what to do ...



The questions you need to answer first; are you wanting to do it to save some bucks, OR do you want to do it as a challenge and to prove that you can do it.



This debate has (raged before) and I still stick to my personal views that; provided you have the time patience and the will to do it, then fine, if not then contract a [GOOD AFRICA EXPERIENCED TAXI] and he will do it all for you @ a fair price. Remember he is in the business has the experience & contacts and will serve you well ..



IMHO DONT try to re-invent the wheel, rather pay the Xperts in their field and sit back and read a good hunting book, it will be MUCH better for your soul



Peter

If the shipment is in your name you can clear it yourself so long as there are no Primates or swine in the box, unless they are fully mounted or considered a finished product.

Once you arrive at the shipping agents office they will give you the packet of info supplied by the shipper, taxidermist or Pack and dip company. With the packet you need to go to the Federal F&W office and transfer the info from the packet to the USF&W forms which is very easy. After you have the USF&W permits you go to US customs and they will look over the paperwork stamp it "OK" based on the USF&W forms and approval. Then you drive back to the shipping agents office, pay your bill for shipping. They typically only take cash or credit card no personal checks.

They will then send you to the truck dock to load the crate in your truck. The Teamsters in the warehouse will not open your crate for you or take the empty crate from you. The crate will likely need to be taken away by you and is yours to dispose of. It's that easy! Just call and make sure the Fed F&W will be in the office for you to meet with before you go there.

Thanks JJHACK, just the answer I was hoping for! Now, the "shipping agent". Is he the guy who the (African) taxi ships it to, or is he just the recipient of all stuff shipped into that location? ie. Is the box addressed to me or to the shipping agent? Again, please excuse me if the answer is obvious!
peter.