The timing of this comment is perfect for me. I'll be visiting the coast of Norway in October, and was hoping to find a few common shells on the shore, or perhaps connect with someone there who might want to trade something common but pretty, for something common but pretty from my collection. I was wondering whether or not I'd have any problems either taking or bringing back a small number of shells in my luggage.  Does anyone have more information on this for me?


---- Thomas Eichhorst <[log in to unmask]> wrote:

=============
I can get or send a small box of shells for about $2 within the states.  That seems pretty cheap.  A friend and I double up on the overseas auction orders, having all of the shells sent to just one of us.  Then they are split and and the one who got the total order sends the correct shells on to the other person.  Saves on overseas costs.  The horror stories about imported shells sometimes being stopped and tagged with a hefty inspection fee are only too true.  Customs doesn't really care about shells, but Fish & Wildlife does.  I had to pay a $25 "inspection" fee for a $10 box of shells a few years ago.   Oh, and you do not have the option of saying, "Keep the shells!"  The bill shows up separately in the mail and comes complete with lots of federal paperwork with typical threats for non-payment.

Tom E


From: Samuel S. Tuttle
Sent: Wednesday, July 25, 2012 5:39 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: [CONCH-L] Auctions


I stopped trading because the postage costs kept climbing.  Except for rare shells, you could buy most of the specimens at a shop for less than the postage around the world.  Also, any shipments from outside the U.S. appear to be at risk from Fish & Wildlife inspectors (or other government agencies), some rumors of a $50.00 permit for each order, the requirement for one to be a dealer, etc..  Some countries are now restricting or prohibiting the export of seashells.

Trading inside the U.S. would still be fun if it weren't for the postage.  Perhaps the local Shell Clubs could promote the activity en masse?

Sam Tuttle
Delaware

www.streetsmartbooks.com
Home of SMALL BUSINESS PRIMER: How to Buy, Sell & Evaluate a Business
[log in to unmask]


(Snip)

 > Whatever happened to trading between collectors? T

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