I had a sale to a Russian that wanted the package delivered to Russia. Other Russians I deal with give me an address outside Russia.

So this is my first package to Russia.

So, I claimed the full value on customs and insured it for full value. I figure if the US government is willing to insure the package, why not.

I posted the package Express Mail, January 8, 2010. The package departed SF by Air January 9th. I was not aware of our fuel efficient aircraft but apparently this package was on a plane that did not land until February 15, 2010. This is around 37 days. After another 9 days for a total of 46 days, the package was delivered. I am still waiting to hear if the contents are still in the package.

Just going by memory, I believe that in the 1850's, I could give the package to a Pony Express rider, and it would be in Missouri in 8 days. From there by train and steamer to Europe is about 30 days, then by train to Moscow another few days.

So, in 2010, the two most powerful nations on earth could almost do what a bunch of uneducated teenage Americans could do 150 years ago.

But, it is a start.

For your amusement.

Called progress....
Seiler

Jim, it could be that it just sat over there from February 15.
They are so back logged,,I mean come on, it takes time to go thru and steal the best stuff!

Years ago I sent my nephew 4 GI Joes and some clothes. He got the package in about a month. The next year when I visited I asked where are the Joes as I only saw one. He said 'what do you mean? you sent me one and one outfit.' Apparently they took what they wanted and had mercy and at least let my nephew get one!

Once your package is there anything can happen to it!

I just sent my son a printer to Toronto from NY,,it took 2 full weeks!. I sent a shoebox size package to Warsaw, got there in one week!!

what happened is, most likely, that the package was hold up with the customs, the recipient has to clear it with them first, and it is not easy to do so when the stuff inside has cutting edges )))). the only reason for the delay was the subject of our hobby)))

quote:

I sent a shoebox size package to Warsaw, got there in one week!!

This is a good opportunity to say that there is nothing to worry sending items to Warsaw :-).

Few Years ago I have bought a Navy dagger in Russia (Rostov on Don) - never recived it :-(.

According to sellers words it was shipped - who knows ??

I shipped a package to the Republic of Belarus 37 days ago and it arrived in good order today.

I'm surprised it got there ... period ..

All the best ..

Mike W.

Jim,
Don't worry about long time of shipping to Russia.
Expedited Parcel or even XpressPost from Canada to US and from US to Canada takes at least two (2) weeks to one (1) month
Now, that's funny or rather tragic.

Yup Jim nearly every shipment is a nail biter!!

Lakeside brings up a very realistic point.

Like most people. I sell my daggers FOB shipping Point. This simply means ownership changes hands at the point of shipment. I am very clear with all buyers that the shipment is their responsibility. Fortunately, I have never lost an item.

But, even with my full disclosure. I sweat every package that goes out, until it is delivered. The fact is, if a package does go missing, a person of good conscience will not make a profit off the unfortunate business trader and some accomodation must be reached.

Interesting hobby for honorable people.

By the way, both blades arrived in Russia with no issues.

On the few occasions that I have shipped something internationally I have just adhered to the C.I.A insurance regulations to insure the item is covered until received. This gives me peace of mind and assurance that I will be compensated if a claim ever becomes necessary.
Jim