The ones I’ve seen are put in a shipping container and it’s the luck of the draw if it is below deck or on deck. I’ve seen enough shipping containers floating in the Gulf of Mexico to not chance a sea voyage.
I shipped mine by boat and could see no drawbacks. Just make sure that the crates are delivered to your home and that the truck has the capability to put those huge crates on the ground for you. You are less likely to have any shipping damage by boat because the crates are not handled as much. I did exactly as you are doing and had no problems at all once the cartage company used for delivery realized that the contract required a truck with a lift gate. Good luck!
The moisture is one of my bigger concerns. But not as big as the hidden charges once the crate hits the docks.
The initial cost estimate is exactly why I am thinking of going the route. The estimate for boat is $3,400 to a port in Houston. Air freight to Denver is $8,700. This will be a good sized crate. 7 shoulder mounts with back skins, a few full rugs and some small stuff. I am hoping the port charges and such will not eat up the difference.
I am happy to read report where someone is happy with shipping by boat. I have time to figure this out. Our hunt was in August so should have 6 or 7 months to make a decision. Receiving the crate wont be an issue. I am hoping pick the crate up myself once it’s cleared. If I have it delivered by truck, I have a tractor.
First of all it will be many months longer. The main problem is that it seems cheaper at first but there are port fees when it arrives that make it as expensive if not more so. Ive done both ways and am constantly asking for a comparison.
Do you have any advise on who to talk to about the extra charges? Is this a discussion to Have with a receiving agent? I have not lined one up yet.
My taxidermist uses Zingela Forwarders. Don’t know that I would call it a promise but they did quote me both ways as a request.
That could be true. I really hope air fare gets less expensive by the end of next year. I would way rather put it on a plane.
Everett, I went and found your write-up and thanks for writing that. I now remember reading it when you posted it. I plan on picking the crate up in Houston to save on the ground transportation. I am wondering what costs will accumulate from the time the crate hits the dock to when I pick it up.
I used Karoo Taxidermy, it seemed kind of like a bait and switch deal to me.
I’ll have to look back to see for sure, but don’t think ground shipping freight was a big expense. It was loading, unloading, sorting fees, etc.
