Shipping your trophy hassle-free
International trophy shipments have become more complicated due to continually changing regulations and logistical challenges.To ensure that the hunter’s valuable and memorable hunting trophies are delivered to their home safely and without complications, as the shipping agent Namibia Safari Services and Supplies requires several documents.
These include the Namibian hunting permit on the hunter’s name, a copy of their passport, their full physical address, a delivery address if it differs from the physical address, the hunter's contact details and the Import Customs Broker, if known.
According to Namibia Safari Services and Supplies, national and International agencies within the trophy import and export industry request specific documentation to ensure the shipment meets current regulations. “Any missing or conflicting forms or information can cause unnecessary and costly delays.”
To avoid complications, here is a rundown of what every hunter must know when shipping trophies home:
• Provide your full legal name as per your passport. Names must match the required documentation.
• Port of entry: For US Clients, select a FWS (Fish and Wildlife) designated port of entry closest to the final delivery (not every international airport has an onsite FWS presence).
• Select a customs broker that is known and has experience in importing hunting trophies. Remember, the trophy hunting industry is a special cargo which is handled differently than normal cargo shipments
• Generally, fees paid for your hunt do not include any post-hunt costs, such as dipping and packing, or taxidermy services and crating/packing.
• Furthermore, all US hunters need their own crate. Keep in mind that multiple hunts are not allowed to be packed together. Exceptions for packing multiple hunts in one crate are for a husband, wife, a parent and minor child.
“Personal hunters, outfitters and hunters following these tips are more likely to receive their trophies without any hassle, surprise charges or delays.”
The company added that should anything come up, hunters should work closely and quickly with their customs broker or shipping agent to resolve the issues. "The longer you wait, the more likely the fees and other charges will add up."