03-04-2012, 05:35 PM
I think this thread will tie into others on DD, but it was specific enough of a question not to derail other threads, some that at this point have gone beyond their usefulness IMO anyways.
1. Is there someone, or multiple people, on DD that have actually been a direct importer of amphibians/ PDF into the USA??
2. Can they please help us all, understand the process better. Cause I'm tired of hearing armchair experts tell me things online that I can not be certain are even close to the truth.
3. What are the pros/ cons, pitfalls and risks please?
My limited understanding is that there are often:
1. minimums placed upon orders
2. 'filler' animals that are not usually wanted but are required to get 'what you want'.
3. US FW import license. ~100$ to apply if I recall from when I did it in 2009
4. Export fees to pay, Vet inspections, taxes, etc.
5. Overseas shipping paid by the buyer.
6. Customs to contend with. Which requires appointments at ports of entry.
7. Many importers use an agent or broker at the port of entry. They charge a fee of course.
8. USA taxes on value of material brought in.
7. NO live arrival guarantee, so when you send over your 10K, and DOA animals arrive you are SOL.
8. QT and losses post delivery. Ive heard 10-20% is 'average', and I will say I have experienced similar #'s.
9. Importers time and risk of course.
So really, how does it work in the real world? Who has done this with say 100, 200 or 700 for that matter animals and can please outline the process for the regular keepers like me who wonder why we pay 250$ for CB frogs...or God help us, 800$ for CB frogs from some breeders on this forum ?? hock:
Best,
1. Is there someone, or multiple people, on DD that have actually been a direct importer of amphibians/ PDF into the USA??
2. Can they please help us all, understand the process better. Cause I'm tired of hearing armchair experts tell me things online that I can not be certain are even close to the truth.
3. What are the pros/ cons, pitfalls and risks please?
My limited understanding is that there are often:
1. minimums placed upon orders
2. 'filler' animals that are not usually wanted but are required to get 'what you want'.
3. US FW import license. ~100$ to apply if I recall from when I did it in 2009
4. Export fees to pay, Vet inspections, taxes, etc.
5. Overseas shipping paid by the buyer.
6. Customs to contend with. Which requires appointments at ports of entry.
7. Many importers use an agent or broker at the port of entry. They charge a fee of course.
8. USA taxes on value of material brought in.
7. NO live arrival guarantee, so when you send over your 10K, and DOA animals arrive you are SOL.
8. QT and losses post delivery. Ive heard 10-20% is 'average', and I will say I have experienced similar #'s.
9. Importers time and risk of course.
So really, how does it work in the real world? Who has done this with say 100, 200 or 700 for that matter animals and can please outline the process for the regular keepers like me who wonder why we pay 250$ for CB frogs...or God help us, 800$ for CB frogs from some breeders on this forum ?? hock:
Best,