UK Import

[Keith_M]

I live in the UK and am looking to import from Japan. Has anyone done this that can share experiences and whats the best approach, eg customs clearance, etc?

[paulb]

Hi Keith,

I think this has been covered many times before but dont know how to direct you to previous posts. So a quixk summary based on previous experience:

 

1. Make sure the item is clearly identified and described by the shipper. i.e. Antique Japanese sword over 100 years old and made by a recognised artisan. If possible have authetication papers to refer to.

it should also have the harmonised tariff code: 9706.00.00.90

2. If possible I would use Fedex to ship. It is marginally more expensive but based on my own and other's experience it is a lot faster and much less traumatic than involving Parcelforce. It can make several weeks difference in the time it takes the piece to arrive.

Regards

Paul

[Keith_M]

Hi Paul

 

Many thanks for that and the hint for Fedex. Much appreciated.

 

Keith

[peter]

HI Kieth,

welcome to the NMB

As Paul said. If you could get the seller to put as much paperwork in as possible in the way of discription of item,

in English of course. When i brought a katana in a few years ago they where going to distroy it due to its paperwork having been issued in 1974 and ( "its shiney and looks new ") maybe a heads up to customs to let them know to expect it that way you may get a name to deal with.

Peter

[Keith_M]

Thanks Peter - good idea.

[Tcat]

All good points re:correct labelling and correct tariff codes! This is very important...

 

I might add that previously being a full time UK resident, whenever having anything sword related of any value (USD 1000+) delivered to me, I used FedEx everytime after having experiencing countless headaches and mistakes due to the fumbling hands of "Parcelforce" or as I like to call them, "Parcelfarce". I have never had any problem, holdups or customs delays when using FedEx. Expensive but worth it.