Seriously FRUSTRATED with customs

[BlackDogBob]

So check this out! Sent a package to Europe over 5 weeks ago and got the package back this morning. Apparently there was some issue with the package and it was sent back to us and was literally shredded by customs. They opened all the IMP AND MRE packages and removed pretty much everything. Even the MREs, which originated in the States! We got a box back that contained empty outer packages, spoons and napkins, gum, creamer, and a few drink mixes. No mains, no sides, no sugar, no chocolate, no FSRs, basically, none of the good stuff. All this after paying over $70 for postage.

Very frustrated right now!

[MREHungary]

Very frustrating indeed and an unfortunate situation. This is why I did not contacted you the get some IMPs, as I am "afraid" of the customs :S

I ordered some packages from the US and always used Ebay with GSP (Global Shipping Program) because all customs related stuff is handled with that service. Some say GSP is the worst, but at this date I had no issues *knocking on wood*

[[ex-Member1]]

No logic at all...

[BlackDogBob]

Well, I'm sending out 11 packages this afternoon, 4 of which are going overseas. After that, I will probably restrict my trading to US only. Don't know for sure yet. But to loose $70 in shipping AND the IMPs and MREs is a huge lose to take. The only good part is that I got an awesome ration in exchange.

Oh well, you live and learn.

[elandil]

so sorry to hear that, it sucks.

knock on wood, so far the only issue i've had with customs was the Chinese PLA that was sent with my Philippine mess kit. Customs did open it, it has the tape across the top...I still haven't opened it to see if anythings missing, guess I need to.

[housil]

As upset as you are, consider sending food is usually prohibited by customs. Usually, European customs will "rape" your parcel the first time. I also got a bunch of IMPs and Austrailan ones wheer all entrees etc. where taken out

Your got rejected for some reason. I also got two cases of MREs that got rejected by European customs because they contained 42 g of cheese! Two cases because 42g of cheese!!!!!

US customs is also very strict about bringing food into the US.

But I´m sorry with that lost

[CRO CSO]

i just dont understand why they have return u empty packag!!! they need to return 70$ not empty package!!!!

[steve1989]

I'm really sorry to hear about your lost Rations, Bob.

You know, one time I sent MREheater72 a 22 pound package (from Florida here all the way to Germany) and it got taken by Miami customs.

There were things I never found again in that package - things I hate to even think about.

But it was a lesson learned - I stick to packages under a value of maybe $200 or so now so in case it is lost, I am not out too much $$$. I always declare a low $-value and list the contents as "Vintage Camping Supplies". I also rarely send international packages over 4 pounds.

Have no idea why the laws are so strict.. it's only food!!


Gotta say Bob, it happens to all of us at least once.. sooner or later!

I totally feel your frustration - it's a unique feeling.. the Rations are lost, the person didn't get them, the reasons for it being so strict and unfair. It's a raw deal all-around.



Best of luck in the future for your international shipments. I hope it never happens to ya again - and to anyone else here for that matter!

[gundog4314]

Yeah it's a crap chute. I haven't had anything sent to me violated. I have had a few packages destroyed...one from Chile! Guess they thought I was doing drugs. I usually up my insurance coverage and item value to cover the cost of shipping and contents so if any issues happen, or to at least secure my money back. It kind of back fired with sending a parcel to my friend the Dutch Prepper as they valued the contents at that price and have to pay some exorbitant fee just to get the package. We ended up splitting the cost seeing as he sent me something too.

This is only my theory or opinion, but 95% of customs officials just pass the stuff through. it's those 5% that gotta bust into all the stuff and make a mess. Just is what it is I suppose. here's to knocking on wood that everyone's trades have better fortunes.

Cheers
GD

[BlackDogBob]

i just dont understand why they have return u empty packag!!! they need to return 70$ not empty package!!!!

I completely agree. What's worse is that to send out the new package cost me $91. I guess because I put some extras in.