Shipping question about arrows from Belgium?

[Bill M]

UPS

I just called UPS International and here are their rules that have been in place for at least ten years according to the CSR.

INTERNATIONAL SHIPMENT RULES!

1. Weapons, particularly projectile weapons are on their proscribed list. Bows. Guns. Air-guns. No spears, swords, combat knives, martial arts weapons. Utility knives are ok. Tools are ok. Anything that was designed to kill, hurt or maim they do not want to ship.

2. Antiques worth over $100. If a loss or damage claim, you MUST have a previous-to-the-loss receipt from and "established gallery," or an appraisal. Emphasis on dated previous to the loss.. I asked, "What if I have good pictures and ask an expert to write a letter of value/appraisal? After the loss. He would be able to offer a very good opinion based on knowledge of similar objects."

Answer, "Entirely at our discretion."

3. Irreplaceable antiques - not covered.

I mentioned that I had received items marked "Art Object." He said that they sometimes open them, but the greater danger was from Customs.

That if they open a package marked "Art Object" and it turns out to be a sword, even an old fine one, Customs often decides "this is a sword" and you run the risk of delays, confiscation, complications depending on the country shipped from and to.

Though you may think your sword is an "art object" Customs applies what I call the "Duck Rule." "If it looks like a duck, walks like a duck, sounds like a duck -- it is a duck" or sword.

The CSR was a real "can-do" guy. He suggested that I contact an archery supply company in Belgium and find out who they use to ship bows and arrows. I love helpful people like him!

Maybe Freddy will chime in here?