I cleared my 2010 trophies at DFW yesterday without the aid of a customs broker, it could not have been much easier. The whole process took less than 2 hours from the time I arrived at Delta CArgo until I was driving home (this included trips from one side of DFW to the other). I pre-filed my forms with USFWS (called eDecs and was pretty easy)so it took less than 15 minutes at USFWS and less than 10 at CBP. Two visits were required at Delta, one to get waybills to present to USFWS and CBP and the second to pick up my crates. The majority of the time was spent driving around DFW Airport. Total cost:$50.00 "service fee" at Delta.

I may be moving to Houston soon and my first thought was I could now do this myself.
Still have to arrange getting the hides to Victoria for tanning though.

I agree with bigguy458, it is actually pretty easy to clear your own trophy shipment, at least if you live near enough to a port to drive where they're shipped. I've cleared all of my african shipments over the years, and it's never been a problem, even on CITES animals, as long as you have all your paperwork in order.

One point to keep in mind, if you have any swine, USDA will have to inspect the shipment, and that takes one extra appointment. They have to inspect the shipment while it is still being held in customs bond area.

Except once I have always cleared my own stuff, even cities. The one time I used a broker was when my shipment came in and I was out of town. The broker messed it up and my shipment ended up with storage fees at the holding bay. I think the brokers make it sound difficult for their own benefit. I found it easier doing it myself then throwing in one more middle man that you have to explain things to and get paper work for.

I think the big deal about using brokers to clear shipments is because some folks just do not want to be bothered by the process. All it requires is just paying attention to the details and keeping all the paperwork in order. Some folks would rather pay to have such stuff done for them.

Used a broker on my first trip...large waste of money IMO. Next year I will clear my own trophies even if it requires a long drive to the import city.

One question though, can a family member or friend (i.e. Someone who lives closer) clear trophies for another hunter?

PA Guardian:

Yes someone else can clear your trophy for you, just need to write up a power of attorney giving them the authority to clear your trophy.

I have done this on several shipments for buddies that I have hunted with that don't live as close to the airport as I do.