Dear Sportsman Visiting South Africa with Firearms
(Rifles, Shotguns and Revolvers).
I. U.S.
Customs Registration
To facilitate bringing the firearms
back to the U.S., you should register them with the U.S. Customs office. Offices are
usually located in all major cities check your phone directory or call directory
assistance for the nearest office. It is necessary to take the firearms to this
office to confirm model and serial number. See attached sample of form.
II Transportation of Firearms
Firearms should always be transported
unloaded and locked in a heavy plastic or metal case.
III Insurance
A. If you are a NRA
member you normally have some protection for the firearms
Being transported.
B. Also check with your Homeowner's insurance agent
to see if your policy covers
the loss of
firearms.
C. You can also get additional baggage
insurance-through Custom
Travel.
Application forms will be sent with your tickets.
IV Permits in South Africa
The permit to transport firearms and ammunition in South Africa is
obtained at the airport. This permit is good for 180 days, and it is issued by the police
before you leave the airport Customs area. The procedure is simple: Take your guncase with
the firearms to the Customs Officer in the area marked "Goods to Declare" and
indicate that you need a permit for your firearms. A form will be given to you to
complete, and shortly after that your permit will be issued. The permit is free and the
procedure is simple.
V. Ammunition
A. Do not take shotgun ammunition with you on the trip. is readily
available in South Africa.
It is too heavy,
and is readily available in south africa
B. Rifle ammunition should be packed
in your Rifle Case or inside of a hard case for protection. The
rules change often, so it is always a good idea to call the
airlines before your
trip to ask for
their recommendation.
The above guidelines are
based on my experience traveling to South Africa, However the rules can change at any
time.
Good Hunting!