RCIR shipment in limbo

[Eistee]

Ive had 3 shipments so far that i had to rip open at my local customs office because it didnt go through the initial check.
Its the worst thing an MRE-Hobbyist has to endure, cutting open all rations so they can check for any meat/dairy products.
And if they find them, they get seized, which means that most likely any main and side dish is gonna get confiscated.

But i dont let it go into the way of my hobby, its the packages that come through that make my day.

[Delicious]

I can only say that a can see a difference between sending in a parcel (or courier) and a letter (up to 2 kg/4lbs). The letters are not inspected. I even managed to send Ostrich RCIR to BTemple in Canada

Another factor is how the parcel looks like and how the address label is filled. If you write 'camping supplies' and the parcel looks anonymous - it increases the chance to survive. I wrap my parcels in a black stretch foil - it is also good - sometimes the customs don;t want to open it (because they have to wrap it again)
I had a failure at the beginning - I declared 'food ration' and the only thing what left from RCIR was the tissues.
After this experience I had 100% luck. Now I am trying to send via UPS for the first time - we'll see, but it looks good so far

[lnschnei]

I can only say that a can see a difference between sending in a parcel (or courier) and a letter (up to 2 kg/4lbs). The letters are not inspected. I even managed to send Ostrich RCIR to BTemple in Canada

Another factor is how the parcel looks like and how the address label is filled. If you write 'camping supplies' and the parcel looks anonymous - it increases the chance to survive. I wrap my parcels in a black stretch foil - it is also good - sometimes the customs don;t want to open it (because they have to wrap it again)
I had a failure at the beginning - I declared 'food ration' and the only thing what left from RCIR was the tissues.
After this experience I had 100% luck. Now I am trying to send via UPS for the first time - we'll see, but it looks good so far

I've gotten some MREs from Russia wrapped in a black wrap as well. Other than the crackers getting broken, I've never had a problem...

[paintballer4lfe]

2010-2011 when i bought some EPA's the guy sent 3 of them, Menu 1,2,3 through USPS and it cleared through customs and was delivered but the FDA ripped out all meat products. I remember he labeled it as camping supplies but they still managed to tear it apart and ransack my goods.

He ended up sending the mains/what was removed again in a smaller box with no logo or anything on the box also stating camping supplies and they came through no problem. I just bought a few international rations, Russian, Latvian, Polish, Italian, Chinese and they are all being shipped right now and seem to be doing well so i'm keeping my fingers crossed.

[[ex-Member1]]

I can only say that a can see a difference between sending in a parcel (or courier) and a letter (up to 2 kg/4lbs). The letters are not inspected.

Don't bet on this mate

[Barbeerian]

A Big thank you goes out to each one of you who responded to my plea. I will try and continue with my new found hobby / emergency prep. I can tell you though. after talking to a few Customs officers they also have a problem with the regulations...... Again thanks to all.......

[Delicious]

I can only say that a can see a difference between sending in a parcel (or courier) and a letter (up to 2 kg/4lbs). The letters are not inspected.

Don't bet on this mate

OK, your're right, I were just more lucky...

[Barbeerian]

Just a quick note. This problem has been resolved. I had the package returned to the sender, who in turn sent it through another carrier. It arrived safe and sound. Yippee!!! Thanks to all who responded to my plea for help. It is much appreciated.

[GearReview]

Usually shelf stable "cooked" meats are fine. It would have be unfortunate to lose them. Could have been worse!