Shipping Rifle instead of bringing it with you....

[115grfmj]

Does anyone know if shipping a rifle to your destination rather than checking with your baggage is possible(I.E. UPS, or fedex, DHL etc.) I was just trying to think of a way get your rifle to Africa with out the hassle of moving it with you thru airports. I'm just in the beginning of my research in setting up a hunt in the future for Namibia, and Since I can't find direct flights to Windhoek, I'd have to pass thru SA. I've heard SA can be touchy on firearms.

 

[rooihond]

It looks possible but it may not be worth it. I don't see firearms listed as prohibited items for shipping to Namibia. Check Namibian law, I believe that you sign off before shipping in regards to that. Getting it back may also involve some extra steps with an FFL. I believe that your FFL needs to request a permit and get the ducks in order. It was enough to make me decide to hire a rifle and bring a bow. I hope that somebody has an easy solution for you. I may reconsider. Enjoy the planning and good luck!

 

[Diamondhitch]

Check your bags through to destination and you will only see them when you leave home an when you arrive. On your way back do the same and you will have 1 brief pick up at the US port of entry and you will be placed in the special fire arms line at customs which is way faster than the regular line anyway.

I am not sure about the transit through SA as it has been my final destination but their process is no biggie anyway.

 

[rooihond]

I should have mentioned that I have some post hunt travel that caused me to consider shipping the rifle back home. Otherwise, I probably would just check it straight through like suggested.

 

[cptkirk]

I booked a little side trip to Zimbabwe to see Victoria Falls after my hunt in South Africa and was in need of a place to store my rifle during that trip as it hard to cross borders with a gun if you are not hunting. I booked my flights through Lori Spears, AH's recommended travel agent and she said that there is secure storage available at the Joburg airport for about 5 bucks a day. Since my flight back to the states is leaving from Joburg this works great for me.
I believe I read somewhere that the Afton Guesthouse will store firearms for you for free if you spend a night there when coming or going.

 

[rooihond]

I booked a little side trip to Zimbabwe to see Victoria Falls after my hunt in South Africa and was in need of a place to store my rifle during that trip as it hard to cross borders with a gun if you are not hunting. I booked my flights through Lori Spears, AH's recommended travel agent and she said that there is secure storage available at the Joburg airport for about 5 bucks a day. Since my flight back to the states is leaving from Joburg this works great for me.
I believe I read somewhere that the Afton Guesthouse will store firearms for you for free if you spend a night there when coming or going.

I am definitely keeping that in mind for future trips. Lori was a big help in getting my flights together. I see why she is recommended.