Importing from USA

[Mike357]

This was shamelessly ripped from another Forum (thanks thibben on ShootForum.com) but is from 2009. Does anybody know if the procedure remains the same?

A few people have express interest in the process for exporting controlled items from the US. Controlled items being firearms, shotguns, actions, barrels, brass, bullets etc. Previously stocks, triggers etc. were not put into this category but recently things have changed with no consistent ‘verdict’ being given. One thing to consider is that buried in the US arms controls legislation, in amongst missile guidance systems etc. is a section on small arms and it basically says anything ‘that improves the performance’ of a weapon comes under the controls and this could apply to a stock or similar and this is why I feel US manufacturers are more twitchy.

The export process is very simple so long as you follow the rules and use reliable people at both ends. I’ve process quite few for myself and others over the years and have never had any problems. Well a small one recently, the State Department has introduced a $250 fee per export license (NB not item) they then back dated this for a year producing large tax bills for some companies. This resulted in some going out of business and the others adjusting their fees to cover repayment of their back taxes. The only good thing from the State Dept. changes is export permits are being turned round quicker.

OK the process.

You need to find a State Department registered US FFL. This FFL can then access the electronic process. NB a registered FFL has no implied rights to ship anything i.e. just because he’s registered he cannot ship firearms or parts, he still needs a specific permit. A good company that I can recommend is ETSS. ( http://etssincusa.com/ ) professional and good communications. Once you have located the items you want to purchase you have ETSS send the dealer/supplier a copy of their FFL, the supplier then ships the ‘stuff’ to ETSS.

You then send to ETSS an ‘order’ this is a very specific instruction listing all the items (with any serial numbers, values etc.) and an end use statement and the consignee (see later re. this). This has to be ‘right’ and I can fwd a template to anyone interested. Once ETSS have this they can process your export permit. By the time ETSS has received all the kit the permit should be approved. ETSS then FedEx your gear to Stansted (easiest and cheapest route) pre warning your importer with the AWB number.

I have found using a licensed importer is the best way to get things into the UK. I can recommend PBS ( http://www.pbs-int.co.uk/ ) who are section 5 shippers and an RFD and the owner, Gary Costello, is an experienced shooting guy.

PBS then send a man up to pick up the gear, clear customs pay FedEx and bring it back to Gatwick. You then go and pick it up and they enter it onto your license. NB you cannot ‘hand carry’ gear back, it has to be shipped by a carrier, the method is stated on the export permit and ‘hand carry’ is not accepted by State dept. (bugger-it!)

Costs and times:

I’ve just brought in 2 rifles and a ‘box’ of associated gear and from sending my PO to ETSS to picking up the shipment from PBS on Saturday it took 26 days total.

ETSS costs run 15% or 10% of export shipment declared value + $250 state Dept fee and I paid $125 to ship 2 rifles in one pelican case and a significant box of gear.

PBS costs are £200 to clear customs, pay fees and send a gut to pick up the shipment then enter it onto your license. Import duties worked out to £116 per $1000 of declared shipment value.

As you can see the fixed cosst preclude buying something like a standard Rem. 700 but if you wanted something ‘special’ or to put together the parts to have a UK Smith build you something then it becomes worthwhile both in delivery time and cost.

FYI For shotguns all the above applies except you do not need the export permit but you still need to use a registered FFL so just deduct the $250 fee.

[Sandgroper]

Rob posted details in the library section on here.

[Mike357]

Rob posted details in the library section on here.

God, I am so lazy

Rob's post seems to relate more to businesses as it mentions letterheads etc. The one above I think is more for the individual as it covers the regulations when the items arrive at UK Customs.

Seems a ball ache but if there were a few people clubbing together it might be worth it.

[Robin128]

Not economic/practical for small parts.

What I find good is building a relationship with a good supplier like Brownells.

Sometimes they will ask for a signed and completed DSP-83, depending on value of order.

Other times, they cannot export when their supplier is not registered with their State Department. I don't think there is a work around in that instance...their supplier has to be so registered for some types of goods.

Some goods are banned for export...Federal law.

I always advise BERR when I am importing things that may be border line regulated here.

I'm trying to keep this explanantion simple...and admit to being no expert on importing ... see Library, Importing from USA.