I'm headed to Botswana for my first hunt ever across the pond. The PH has arranged for a local taxidermist to do the dip/pack service, but I'm still trying to understand the process of getting trophies back home. I am looking to have my taxidermy done here in the US so I'll just be receiving horns and hides. I'm wondering which import companies you all have used and would recommend. What are the advantages of the various companies? Bad experiences? Not sure if this matters, but I live in New Mexico. Thanks in advance.

Coppersmith

If nothing else, call these guys, get your questions answered, get a quote at least.

Then compare if you like. I've used them a few times and was satisfied.

Les

I've only done it once, but I used Hunter's International and would again. Ask for Maria, she'll answer any and all questions you have.

http://www.hunter-international.net/

I don't know where you are in New Mexico, but I would recomment Mike Jankovsky at Artworks Taxidermy in Broomfield, CO, a suburb of Denver. You can find his website by doing a search for "Artworks Taxidermy". There is another Artworks, but look for the one in Colorado. Mike has handled my shipments from Australia and Zimbabwe and done an excellent job on the mounts. Denver is one of the airports where they have customs agents and a Fish and Wildlife Service office close, so he gets everything processed. Contact him before you leave and he will send you tags for the skins, horns, skulls, etc. and shipping instructions. Mike is really good to work with. Enjoy your hunt.

In 2011 and 12 I spent 18 months dealing with a Zambian issue using one of the big names. I called Rosella at Safari Import Specialties and 7 days later she had the issue resolved. Now they are my service provider.

http://www.safarispecialtyimporters.com/

Good hunting.

Thanks for the info. Keep it coming.

I have used a few over the years. Once I found Maria Europa I stayed with her because she was very good and reliable. I was glad when she and her husband stated Hunters International a number of years ago and have used them exclusively ever since. They are very responsive and I recommend them unequivocally.

Ropati,

Does your taxidermist have a preference? I'll use Huffaker as an example. He uses Well Worldwide and has the trophies shipped to Houston, where the tannery is, then the horns forwarded to his shop.

Ask your taxidermist about what he prefers.

FWIW, I have used Lynette Lilly from when she worked with ABX Logistics at DFW, she is now with Well Worldwide in Houston. I have used her to import and export trophies from the USA.

quote:

Originally posted by 7MMNut:
I've only done it once, but I used Hunter's International and would again. Ask for Maria, she'll answer any and all questions you have.

http://www.hunter-international.net/

+1 for Maria and her team.

Rosella at Safari Specialty Importers did a great job for us last year. I also had good luck with Coppersmith a few years back.