Shipping Completed Trophies from SA

[Nelsonc0]

I went on a great hunt with Wild Wildebeest Safaris last year where we stayed at Boelani Game Farms (the owner of the lodge was the best host ever), and have just been told my trophies are completed, I had all the work done in SA by joeregal.co.za. They include 1 waterbuck, 1 impala, 1 gemsbuck, and 1 warthog shoulder mount, and a blesbuck euro mount. I have a couple questions, first is it improper to ask for pictures before paying for the remainder of the taxidermy work? Second, is there any reason to have a company like Coppersmith for finished trophies, or is it easy to pick them up at port of entry, and do you have to pick it up as soon as it arrives, within hours, or days? Third, any ideas on shipping cost? I am in Ohio, so if I pick them up Chicago is probably the easiest port of entry to drive to, but I am open to suggestions. Here are some pictures of the animals I am excited to be reunited with!

 

[cpr0312]

First off, congrats on the hunt! Secondly, I dont think its impolite to ask to see the taxidermy pics. Some guys on here have cleared their own taxidermy, I however have used Coppersmith 3 times and they do a fine job and there are no headaches for you.

If you are asking about shipping costs from SA or once they are in the US? From SA it can vary based on time of year, size and weight of the crate for sure. In the US once a agent clears them for you, you would be looking at a few hundred bucks ($350-$500 or so)depending on how far away you live. Best of luck

 

[BRICKBURN]

Ask for the pictures. They are your trophies.

 

[CAustin]

Always ask for pictures.

 

[cls]

Definitely ask for pictures and from all sides.

 

[Heeler75]

If Chicago is your closest place, contact D&L Custom Brokers. They are located in Chicago.

If you haven't contracted any shipping, contact Safari Cargo Systems. Pieter Erasmus is a member here. They shipped both of my previous trips and were professional in every way. D&L could probably help with shipping also.

 

[375 Ruger Fan]

Personally, I'd have someone like Coppersmith clear your shipment and then you simply pick it up at their warehouse. The Port of Seattle has a helpful document for first time shippers, which I've attached. I assume the process is the same at any port of entry in the US.

 

[Hogpatrol]

First, Great trophy animals! For a first timer and 90% of anyone else, I'd go with a broker. Doing the importation yourself can be an exercise in self abuse. Dealing with shippers, government agencies and dock workers can raise one's blood pressure cause hair loss , forehead lacerations , mental instability , thoughts of engaging in violent activities , alcohol abuse and ED.

 

[huntinlabs]

Do you have pictures of your completed mounts you could send me? I am leaving in 27 days and I am contemplating on using him for my trophies.