Shipping and Customs Guide

Shipping and Customs Guide: What to Expect When Ordering African Hides Internationally

We ship worldwide with full documentation to ensure smooth customs clearance—but international logistics for wildlife products can be nuanced and time-sensitive. Here’s what you need to know about the journey your hide takes from Africa to your doorstep.

Packaging and Documentation

Every hide is:

Carefully packaged to prevent damage during transit.

Accompanied by all required wildlife permits (e.g. CITES, veterinary certificates).

Labeled with detailed product descriptions to avoid customs delays.

We work closely with freight partners who understand the sensitivities of shipping exotic materials and ensure compliance with international regulations.

Customs Clearance Timelines by Region

Delivery times vary depending on your location and the complexity of your country’s import laws. Here's a revised breakdown with more conservative estimates:

Region	Updated Delivery Time	Customs Clearance Notes
South Africa (Domestic)	4–10 business days	Minimal customs involvement.
United States	20–42 business days	CITES permits required; USDA may inspect.
European Union	14–36 business days	Customs may request additional documentation.
Australia & New Zealand	28–56 business days	Strict biosecurity checks; delays possible.
Middle East & Asia	20–50 business days	Varies widely by country; some require pre-approval.

These timelines include both shipping and customs processing. However, delays can occur due to:

• Seasonal backlogs (especially around holidays).
• Random inspections by customs or wildlife authorities.
• Missing or incomplete paperwork submitted by the importer.

What Causes Delays?

Even with full documentation, customs clearance can be unpredictable. Common causes of delay include:

Permit verification: Authorities may cross-check CITES or veterinary documents.

Import restrictions: Some countries have temporary bans or require special licenses.

Courier handoffs: International shipments often pass through multiple carriers, each with their own protocols.

We recommend international buyers:

- Check with local customs offices before ordering.

- Ensure their import licenses (if required) are up to date.

- Respond promptly to any customs queries to avoid extended holds.

🤝 Our Commitment

We’re here to make your experience seamless. Our team:

- Prepares all documentation in advance.

- Monitors shipments and provides updates.

- Assists with customs queries if they arise.

From the moment your hide leaves our facility to the moment it arrives at your door; we’re with you every step of the way.