Importing flutes from UK to US..

Dionys · Post by **Dionys** » Sun Mar 17, 2002 11:12 pm

I've never had to deal with customs at this level before, so I was wondering if anyone can help with experience, tips or helpful knowledge concerning importing a wood flute with Ivory rings (easily over 100 years old) that happens to teeter right around the $2000 mark.

Does anyone know what kind of papers I will need to prove the ivory is over the 100 required years in age? Do I need to have it be a 'formal entry?' Would it be *much* to my benefit to have it not be a formal entry should the final value/cost be under $2k? Does a company like Parcelforce handle customs entry if the item is not a 'formal entry'?

I know this is slightly off-topic, but I imagine some people have had to deal with this and may have to do so in the future. I thank you for your kindness and help

Dionys

Tony · Post by **Tony** » Mon Mar 18, 2002 4:57 am

Dionys, the only person I know of in the UK who works in ivory (legally, for bagpipe restoration projects) is Davy of Bagpipe works.
http://www.bagpipeworks.com/
His website lists a duties exemption number for bagpipes... but he may have additional information for other musicial instruments with ivory trims. I suggest you send him an e-mail.

selkie · Post by **selkie** » Mon Mar 18, 2002 5:34 pm

We don't do a lot of insurance to the UK. I sent a dony Dixon Flute bu Interational Recordered delivery but had to pay a lot of top to cover it in case of damage. Better still if you caould find somebody to take it or collect it.