Like many other government agencies (and some businesses as well), the Deep State has their own agenda.

Last year I was flying out of Bangor, and the United agent at check-in insisted I have locks on every one of the 4 lock holes on my Pelican rifle case.

Fortunately, I had two TSA locks which would fit.

When I got my rifle in Denver, the two TSA locks (about $12.00 a piece) were missing!

I try and carry hardcopies of both the TSA and the airlines most recent procedures for traveling with firearms and ammo.

BH63

No question there are uninformed or difficult officials on both sides of the pond. A meet and greet service does help a lot in Jo'burg. On this side it can still be a crap shoot.

Flew SAA out of JFK and was told to remove the bolt and keep it separate from the rifle. Other bags were already on the conveyor belt and on their way. So was told to put in my carryon or the rifle wouldn't be on the airplane. On return trip was told to definitely keep it in the rifle and never put in carryon. That last one made sense. But of course you struggle as the customer to help the agents understand.

I'm sure we all have war stories like that. The real key is patience, copies of the airlines policies, copy of TSA's policy, be flexible with extra locks if needed, oh -- and patience!!

Lane,

I think you'll love Gracy's VIP service. I recommend it to every hunter transiting O.R. Tembo. I use the VIP service myself although I've been through that airport several times. It saves a bunch of time and it's always nice to have someone taking care of you. You're on vacation so why not avoid the angst.

Mark

quote:

Originally posted by ledvm:
Good to hear! I am using the VIP service.

You are golden Doc. Between bidvest and Gracy, it will be a breeze!

Contrary to all the posts, I find SAPS much easier to deal with than the import process in Zim. I have been through Harare and Vic Falls, and SAPS is far easier.

Since Debbie now lives in Vic Falls...I wonder why she doesn’t do a VIP entry service there.

For those of you in Dallas, I was at DFW last week getting a couple of 4457's and the CBP Officer noticed my address and informed me that CBP can/will issue 4457's at their office at Love Field. Much closer to my home.

quote:

Originally posted by K Evans:
For those of you in Dallas, I was at DFW last week getting a couple of 4457's and the CBP Officer noticed my address and informed me that CBP can/will issue 4457's at their office at Love Field. Much closer to my home.

Thanks!

Guess I need to figure out exactly where they are at Love Field since I need new/updated 4457s...

Try this phone number...
214-477-4934

quote:

Originally posted by K Evans:
Try this phone number...
214-477-4934

Thank you sir.

quote:

Originally posted by Charles_Helm:

quote:

Originally posted by K Evans:
Try this phone number...
214-477-4934

Thank you sir.

Yes, thank you. I'm traveling with guns out of the country for the 1st time this September. I was wondering if I had to go to Irving for a 4457 or could go somewhere closer, like McKinney

There is an office in Addison...but if I was that far...I would go to Irving office as I have used it many times and it is always quick, courteous, and efficient.

Irving office still closer to NE Texas than Love Field office.

Just for all reading- there is also an office in Oklahoma City. They are very nice and accommodating.

quote:

Originally posted by K Evans:
Try this phone number...
214-477-4934

FYI I called yesterday and arranged to go by today. Very polite and professional. Parking is somewhat limited due to construction.

That’s good to hear. Please report back.

Yeah, parking is limited but for me, it’s a lot easier and quicker. Glad it worked out.

quote:

Originally posted by K Evans:
Try this phone number...
214-477-4934

Yes-

Lemmon @ Lover's Lane
they do ask that you call for an appointment

Sorry, I misread your post and I’m glad it went well.

quote:

Originally posted by Dahav:
Just for all reading- there is also an office in Oklahoma City. They are very nice and accommodating.

Takes all of 5 minutes in OKC.