What is worth bringing to Colombia?

Escape Artist says on Apr 29, 2009, 12:31:

Also know what I don't bring down will either be sold at garage sale prices or be given away to relatives and friends. Sigh!

EA

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Escape Artist says on Apr 29, 2009, 13:13:

Pb: Thank you for your valuable input. Yawn!

EA

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bufalo says on Apr 29, 2009, 13:45:

When I left the country I only brought books, clothes and camera equipment. If you're going to move to Colombia, just give everything away - feels good to do so.

"If you don't like it - lump it, take it down the road and dump it." - Archie Bunker played by Carroll O'Connor

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Escape Artist says on Apr 29, 2009, 13:52:

Thanks bufalo! I've considered just that but as I'm sure you know we get attached to our things and this is such a huge move for me I think the "comfort factor" of having my things might help lessen the adjustment shock.

EA

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partyanimal says on Apr 29, 2009, 14:12:

Peace =)
(lol sorry had to do the corny joke)

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Escape Artist says on Apr 29, 2009, 15:00:

Sorry Pb I missed the joke. Peace!

EA

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Escape Artist says on Apr 29, 2009, 15:04:

Johnny: Funny you should mention the cheese. I always bring some Tillamook cheddar cheese with me! Thanks for the input on the pots and pans. I enjoy cooking and it is one of my few indulgences in life to use nice cookware. Any other suggestions I may be forgetting?

EA

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Bill Turley (Moderator) (Trustee board) (☼Travelguide writer) says on Apr 29, 2009, 15:17:

Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 29, 2009, 15:17:

Bring your own kitchen cookware, the quality here sucks. Bring you fridge as you will pay much more here for a lesser quality one. Sheets, mattresses here as well. I relocated to Cartagena from California, so my experience is along the coast. Interior locations might be different. Bring any and all of your electronics because you will pay more for less quality. Gas BBQ is a great idea because only low end BBQs are found here. DVD players are a different zone, so if you bring US dvd movies then ok, but the local ones dont play on my us dvd player. I basic brought everything i had and gave away what i did not need or could not use.......made alot of friends that way, too.....

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

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ferran says on Apr 29, 2009, 15:29:

You are right about the $200 per Lb. I take Avianca which I think is a little cheaper, and it beats shipping, takes longer and its a hassle, since I'm moving to Medellin next year, for the last two years I have been doing same, I plan to open a food business, either a restaurant or a Charcuterie, so I take plenty of kitchen equipment, all ready have in Medellin a professional slicer, a small convection oven, an electric deep fryer, and plenty of smaller stuff, cutting boards, stainless steel inserts and bain maries, japanese and german knives, and plenty of catereing equipment and utensils, some of this equipment you find in Colombia is inferior and very expensive, I have accumulated a great deal of equipment by taking things with me on every trip, Oh yes I have amassed a great deal of ingredients and liquor, take Asian ingredients, cheeses and Charcuterie items, last year a brought a whole Serrano Ham, been lucky always get the green light at customs, never been inspected, as far as furniture, its not worth it, I do have my art work, books and CDs, vintage Hi Fi equipment and my collection of vintage guitars which will all make it to Medellin. Have fun and good luck.

All truth goes through three phases. First, it is ridiculed. Second, it is violently opposed. Third, it is accepted as being self evident.

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Escape Artist says on Apr 29, 2009, 15:54:

Thanks ferran and MC. I've been doing the same, bringing bits and pieces down each trip over the past year and a half, but I'm getting down to the wire with selling my house in the U.S. and the reality of living in Colombia is right around the corner. Previously I wasn't aware of the fact I was allowed to bring three extra checked bags on each flight down otherwise I would have started the process over a year ago. I just weighed a bag of my small hand tools and it's 47 lbs so I think I'm good on those. Now I have to weigh my super espresso machine and my blender along with the sheets etc. I think I'll be under the 250 lbs (5 checked bags at 50 lbs each) and I still have the carry on bag along with the one personal item they allow in the cabin. Now I'm waiting for the quote from the moving company about my piano, bed, oven, fridge, gas BBQ and giant roll around tool box a.k.a. pit mule. I'm not looking forward to hearing the price! I think it's going to be exorbitantly high.

EA

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bickerss says on Apr 29, 2009, 15:59:

EA - welcome back (almost). Best travel type investment I made was the kindle (or sony) reading device; I would have bought one ages ago if I knew how handy it would be - especially as the english book range avail in Colombia is quite limited. If you read a fair bit you will make back the money in a reasonable time frame.

Investment Strategy - buying when others are crying!! Offloading when others are gloating!!!

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ferran says on Apr 29, 2009, 16:00:

Most definite I'm bringing on my next trip a foking state of the art gas BBQ, the best money can buy, like with my other equipment I will take it in parts.

All truth goes through three phases. First, it is ridiculed. Second, it is violently opposed. Third, it is accepted as being self evident.

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Escape Artist says on Apr 29, 2009, 16:09:

Thanks bickerrs... Great tip!

Here's something interesting I just discovered. The carry-on suitcase I normally use has an empty weight of 10.5 lbs (seems heavy to me) and the suitcase I use for checked baggage weighs a whopping 14.5 lbs. I also weighed one of the heavy duty cardboard boxes I had made to the limits of the airlines size regulations (62 linear inches) and it only weighs 3.5 lbs empty. Looks like I need to have another box made and that way I can bring another 11 lbs. Four boxes plus my golf bag loaded to the weight limit all totaling 250 lbs for $150 I think is not a bad deal.

EA

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Escape Artist says on Apr 29, 2009, 17:11:

elmo: You da man! Who wudda thunk to a bring chit pusher down to Colombia? With all that chicharron and arepas I'll be consuming I bet I'll have some decent sized mojones. I'm headed to the hardware store right now to buy one. Mil gracias!

BTW, were you aware the word plunger is slang for penis?

EA

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 29, 2009, 17:17:

EA...where are you shipping your piano etc from?

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 29, 2009, 17:28:

,,,

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

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Escape Artist says on Apr 29, 2009, 17:33:

Northern California, why? Depending upon the price my stuff may go by air or by sea. I'm waiting for the quote to come in that at that time I'll make the decision air or sea.

I've thought about arranging everything myself and working with a freight forwarder but frankly I've got so much to deal with now I don't really want any extra chit on my plate.

EA

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www.calirentals.net (☼Travelguide writer) says on Apr 29, 2009, 17:37:

Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 29, 2009, 17:38:

i am shipping another 40' container out of Oakland to Cartagena once i get my tax return money...i wont be using all of the 40' however..(the choice is 20' or 40' and i have more than 20' of furniture) ....shoot me an PM and maybe we can work something out.....if not, no biggie....but my stuff is located in San Jose....

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

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goin_south says on Apr 29, 2009, 17:40:

Bring a bottle of Chocolate Tequila Rose for your girl and yourself.
I don't think they have that in Colombia.
She'll love it.
She'll love it so much, .. .better bring two.

nothin I say is to be takn for my words, but rather for the words of Sailor Jerry.

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Escape Artist says on Apr 29, 2009, 17:46:

Thanks ab! Already have my mountain bike in Medellin (I brought it down on my last visit). I just packed my Rowenta iron and I'm having a fold down ironing board built into my laundry room (but still great advice thank you!) My down pillows are definitely coming down with me (no pun intended) and as mentioned above my nice sheets are on the list too! Thanks again for the advice. BTW I've called Raphael at J.J. Logistics for a week straight and they have yet to return my phone call.

EA

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Escape Artist says on Apr 29, 2009, 17:51:

MC: You've Got Mail!

EA

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Tinto (Moderator) (Trustee board) says on Apr 29, 2009, 17:52:

If you're a member of an airline's frequent flier club with 'basic' Elite status or buy/upgrade to First Class, you may get two checked bags at 70 pounds each and a heavier allowance and/or a lesser price on the extra checked bags. Those things change all the time, but it's worth checking into.

I wanted access to health care, housing and education, but, no, I get potholes, trash and silicone tits instead. -Desi.

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Escape Artist says on Apr 29, 2009, 17:53:

Gotta love that Egyptian cotton! 600 thread count or higher are the only sheets that will ever touch my nalgas blanca!

EA

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Escape Artist says on Apr 29, 2009, 17:59:

Thanks Tinto but the upgrade to First Class would not be cost effective when it comes to 40 extra pounds and I'm not an Elite member so I'll have to deal with coach and the limitations put on that class. Thanks for the input and if you can think of anything else I should bring down please don't hesitate to chime in again.

EA

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Escape Artist says on Apr 29, 2009, 18:01:

elmo: Do you have a "Tuesday Morning" store by you? That's the best place to buy your sheets. They get overstocked and closeout items at a fraction of the cost as the big box stores like Macy's

http://www.tuesdaymorning.com/indexCatalogOff.asp

EA

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 29, 2009, 18:05:

thats a great idea, Tinto...thanks

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 29, 2009, 18:10:

EA...sent you a reply....

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

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Escape Artist says on Apr 29, 2009, 18:30:

elmo: At the Tuesday Morning store I paid $49.99 a set for Cal King and Queen size 600 thread count Egyptian cotton sheets.

EA

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 29, 2009, 18:41:

all you can get here is about 300 ct.....and remember, mattress sizes here and the sheets are not the same size as US ones......if you bring a US mattress bring all the additional shit too.....besides, its a hell of alot cheaper, better quality, and there are more brands to choose from...

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

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Escape Artist says on Apr 29, 2009, 18:54:

Ain't fokin' witcha elmo, I just tossed the receipt but did double check it before I wrote the above comment. I've also paid $79.99 for other sets of 600 count sheets but the best price I found was for $49.99. I've bought so many sets of fokin' sheets in the last year or so the lady at the store thinks I'm running a small hotel. With a couple of houses along with several vacation rental condos I've spent a small fortune at that freakin' store.

EA

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La_Huella says on Apr 29, 2009, 19:48:

Very little worth bringing here. If you know where to look you can find pretty much anything here. I can't vouch for expensive sheets, power tools or the like because I don´t buy those things. I did bring down some of my esoteric kitchen stuff like the expensive chef´'s knife, because it was light anyways.

I would NOT bring a bicycle down here, you'd have to be nuts to do that. Bicycles here cost less than half what they do in the US.

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Escape Artist says on Apr 29, 2009, 19:58:

La Huella; Thanks for the input! I too brought my Henckel knife set and a lot of my smaller kitchen gadgets on a previous trip so I'm good to go there. I respectfully disagree with you when it comes to a bicycle, at least the type of bicycle I'm interested in riding. I have a high end mountain bike which would cost almost 40% more in Medellin than what I paid for it in the U.S. That being said I'm sure one can find a run of the mill heavy steel frame bike for a great price but that's not my cup of tea. My brakes alone cost more than an inexpensive steel bike would cost in Medellin (I know this because I went to the Bike House on Ave Poblado and checked out what they had and their prices) . Anyhow too late, my bike is already in Medellin waiting for my return. Thanks again for your advice!

EA

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fill says on Apr 29, 2009, 20:10:

Miguel_Clavo I sent you a PM. I could share your container if you are interested. Thanks

fill

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span_colombia says on Apr 29, 2009, 20:44:

Books is a good suggestion. Bring lots of English books. Also, if you´re an outdoors person, it might be good to stock up on discounted quality stuff like fleeces, outdoor clothes, etc. from places like REI or cheaper online sites. Clothes in general are pretty expensive here.

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Escape Artist says on Apr 29, 2009, 20:51:

Score! I just discovered my weight allowance for my golf bag is 70 lbs not 50 lbs as I thought. 20 additional pounds... Now I have room for more kitchen stuff like acrylic cutting boards and maybe my crock pot. Thanks johnny for the heads up on the cutting boards.

EA

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billyb says on Apr 29, 2009, 20:55:

I'd watch out for Clavo if i were you guys, he's capable of selling 100 feet worth of space in a 40 foot container ;)

"All I want to know is where I'm going to die, so I never go there" Unkown (at least to me) wise man.

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billyb says on Apr 29, 2009, 20:57:

Escape, bring good pillows, books.

"All I want to know is where I'm going to die, so I never go there" Unkown (at least to me) wise man.

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Escape Artist says on Apr 29, 2009, 21:14:

johnny: No, I just picked the handle, Escape Artist, because when I was younger I loved magic, illusions and especially the people who could escape from just about anything. I dabbled a bit with magic etc. but never went anywhere with it other than a few tricks.

EA

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Escape Artist says on Apr 29, 2009, 21:17:

Thanks billyb the pillows are on the list.

EA

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La_Huella says on Apr 29, 2009, 22:35:

There is a Sealy pillow that Costco carries that I ALWAYS bring back a couple of from the US. Havent found a replacement for it yet, plus it helps pad my bag and protect whatever else is in there from the morons who load and unload it from the plane.

Havent found my wooden comb yet but havent had ANY time to look, been slammed lately. I'm sure it´s there.

Bicycles, maybe they are more expensive in MDE they are real cheap here in BOG, even the real high end models.

Those acrylic chopping boards, did you look downtown for them? I know there's a couple blocks where it's all kitchen stuff and real cheap. I'm thinking like the teens off of Cra 13 maybe?

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Escape Artist says on Apr 29, 2009, 22:49:

LaHuella: Curious what would this bike sell for in Bogota? BTW this bike has a carbon frame.

http://www.specialized.com/us/en/bc/SBCExperience.jsp?eid=95

EA

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capitan_centella says on Apr 30, 2009, 00:25:

money.

;-)

"When you open your eyes, you turn around with the world, But it can change, if you only close it, and see a dream to yourself." Me.

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www.calirentals.net (☼Travelguide writer) says on Apr 30, 2009, 05:50:

kenblanquito says on Apr 30, 2009, 07:42:

Take into consideration that the majority of electrical appliances and kitchen equipment are made in China and the quality is rubbish. Anything imported from Europe or the US is heavily taxed and then marked up which make them very expensive.
Any good stainless steel stuff, bring with you as the Chinese seem to make the worst steel on the planet.
Hifi stuff here generally sucks and anything half-decent will be imported-depends if you like decent sound quality or not. European and North American music CD's are very expensive now, so if you are a fanatic bring them with you.
I agree about the limited amount of books in English.
Personally, after living here for 6 months before making the move permanent, I decided to just ship everything from the UK and fill the container. As a result, 220 Volts electricity is installed in each property as I move around as it worked out cheaper to do that than buy new stuff here of inferior quality that would last 5 minutes. One day, I hope that another Brit immigrant may benefit from my obsessive behaviour. Also hidden within my domestic possessions were kilos of cheese (Colombians are not good at making real cheese, they think they would not like it), cases of English beer, tea, asian herbs and spices and black peppercorns among other items hard to find here.

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 30, 2009, 07:42:

memory foam doesnt work in Ctg...it sucks up moisture and retains heat......both in ample supply in Ctg.....=)..like a big sponge, after a while you would have a colombian version of a waterbed...jjjajajaa

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

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Papi de Alejo says on Apr 30, 2009, 07:49:

Great thread EA. I have been traveling back and forth every four months or so and have just begun to start thinking in terms of what I should carry and leave in Colombia. I thought about sending a small box (30 lbs.) ahead of me this trip but found that it would cost me $2.75 per pound but the airline would charge me $25 for an extra bag with 50 pounds. So in my case, I can carry 20 extra pounds for $75 dollars less.

Thanks to all for their suggestions. They are most helpful.

Live simply... Love generously... Care deeply... Speak kindly...

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Escape Artist says on Apr 30, 2009, 09:01:

So here are a few of the things I've learned about what to bring on the plane as opposed to shipping it via air cargo...

1. The suitcase itself weighs a lot so if you have the option of replacing it with a cardboard box (secure it with a lot of packing tape and then wind some cord/twine/ around it for ease of carrying) you'll gain anywhere from 6 to 12 lbs depending upon the weight of your suitcase (Your numbers may vary).

2. A bike box will cost you around $75-$100 USD to ship and it has NO WEIGHT limit! (Secure as stated above) On my last trip I loaded the bike box with about 75 lbs of my sports related stuff along with my mountain bike. NOTE: You can even get away without putting an actual bike in the box (they don't inspect it or x-ray it at the counter, they may x-ray or inspect it in the back but at that point those people have no idea if you paid for bringing a bike or paid for bringing odd sized cargo). The deal here is you can gain at least 25 to 30 lbs along with the larger size as opposed to the normal box weight limitation of 50 lbs and the size limit of 62 linear inches.

3. Bring your nice 600 thread count Egyptian cotton beds linens, plenty of books or a Kindle, cheese, nice cookware (if you enjoy cooking), stereo equipment, oh and did I say CHEESE?

4. Golf clubs in a golf travel bag stuffed with extra goodies up to 70 lbs!!!

5. Up to 5 checked boxes/suitcases (2 free and 3 extras at $100 each. NOTE: A golf bag replaces on of your two free checked bags) with a
50 lb limit unless you use a bike box and then pack it to where you think it won't be excessively heavy to lift and move around (I found this weight to be 75 lbs.)

6. Conclusion: 5 checked items loaded with up to 295 lbs (this includes 3 suit cases/boxes at 50 lbs each, a golf bag at 70 lbs and a bike box at 75 lbs) along with a carry-on bag/box and personal item (day back pack) up to 40lbs (I always push this limit to about 60 lbs). So if my math skills are up to par I have 355 lbs of stuff at $300 USD for the 3 extra items (2 boxes and bike box) that's less than $.85 per pound. Okay so take away all the items you would normally be able to bring for free (2 checked items and your carry-on and personal item) that's still $2.00 per pound, or less if you pack a bike box, which is not a bad air cargo rate and your items are right there with you without the hassle of dealing with shipping and receiving the air cargo items.

NOTE: I'm flying American Airlines to Medellin and all airline baggage rules/limitations are NOT the same so check with your airline. Pay the guys at the airport a few bucks to carry your crap it will be well worth the money.

And one final comment: DON'T FORGET TO BRING CHEESE! ;-)

EA

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bickerss says on Apr 30, 2009, 09:07:

Check out this service as well - may not be the most ecenomically viable however some may find t useful.

http://www.seatguru.com/articles/luggage_shipping_services.php

Investment Strategy - buying when others are crying!! Offloading when others are gloating!!!

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 30, 2009, 09:30:

Cheese in Europe is that good? i have never tried it.....=)

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

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billyb says on Apr 30, 2009, 09:52:

Johhny, obviously you've never tried cheez whiz.

"All I want to know is where I'm going to die, so I never go there" Unkown (at least to me) wise man.

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 30, 2009, 10:16:

cheez whiz comes in a pressurized canister which you turn upside down to place the cheeze (or whatever it is?) on the crackers.....i think it has a shelf-life of about 2 milleniums......=)

billyb, FYI there are 4 40' sides to the container for the length, so techically i should be able to sell 400 feet of space with a 40' container, right???? =P

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

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Escape Artist says on Apr 30, 2009, 10:27:

bickerrs: Thanks for the link but they are WAY too expensive!! The prices quoted on the site were for coast to coast in the U.S. so I investigated further. It turns out they use the big shippers like FedEx, UPS and DHL so I got a quote from DHL to ship the same items I'm bringing on the plane with me on my next trip and they, DHL, charge $2961 USD for the items I'm bringing (and that didn't include the 60 lbs I take as carry-on). Thanks but NO THANKS DHL!

EA

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billyb says on Apr 30, 2009, 11:03:

Johnny, you are right, most of the cheese produced stateside is an abomination. Luckily here in the Bay Area we have a lot of small artisan cheese producers.

"All I want to know is where I'm going to die, so I never go there" Unkown (at least to me) wise man.

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billyb says on Apr 30, 2009, 11:06:

Where do you think the yellow hues come from?

"All I want to know is where I'm going to die, so I never go there" Unkown (at least to me) wise man.

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Escape Artist says on Apr 30, 2009, 11:09:

why are you guys jacking my thread? Hmmmm Oh well... have fun!

EA

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 30, 2009, 11:15:

its a real bitch for the cheeze whiz sniffers too!!!!!...jajajaj

EA...call me agian i missed your call...

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

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billyb says on Apr 30, 2009, 11:18:

Sorry Escape, blame it on johnny and his cheese fetish.

"All I want to know is where I'm going to die, so I never go there" Unkown (at least to me) wise man.

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 30, 2009, 11:26:

like Simon says, billyb is one of those pain in the ass colombianos....jajajaja

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

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Escape Artist says on Apr 30, 2009, 11:27:

Okay bad boys billy and johnny go the the corner of the room and face the wall for 15 minutes! ;-)

EA

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billyb says on Apr 30, 2009, 11:30:

"It was billy, he hijacked the pereira/cali thread too"

jaja, that was simple simon, who didn't like it that desi and I both said it rained there a lot.

"All I want to know is where I'm going to die, so I never go there" Unkown (at least to me) wise man.

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webmanco says on Apr 30, 2009, 11:37:

Rule #13
Threads over 50 comments long must be diverted so they become about Finland, Elmo's fishing or Cheese.


Threads over 50 comments long must be diverted so they become about Finland, Elmo's and Elsapo bashing on cachacos and rolos

No hay extremo cierto o verdadero, porque los extremos opacan, enruedan, (lavan cerebros) verdades. Yotas

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Desideria (Moderator) (Trustee board) says on Apr 30, 2009, 11:54:

:(

A fronte praecipitium a tergo lupi

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Escape Artist says on Apr 30, 2009, 12:00:

johnny: my bad! I'll go back and read the rules again because it appears I missed the ones you pointed out above.

See what you've done? Now you've got desi poking around in my thread, and she's NOT happy!

EA

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Desideria (Moderator) (Trustee board) says on Apr 30, 2009, 12:08:

I only comment on Finland if somebody else does it first,

A fronte praecipitium a tergo lupi

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 30, 2009, 13:35:

Escape Artist...looks like i am the EA today..you called when i went to get my haircut...got a hot date tonight.....jajajja...i will be in the office for the next two and a half hours....or send me a number in the US or Colombia i can call you at....

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

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billyb says on Apr 30, 2009, 13:46:

"got a hot date tonight.....jajajja"

What's his name?

"All I want to know is where I'm going to die, so I never go there" Unkown (at least to me) wise man.

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 30, 2009, 14:29:

celoso, 'mano????....i have two of my sons friends from Dallas here for a heart surgery convention at the Hilton...both are doctors in that field....one is a Colombian doctor who is more american than colombian...jajaja....i hope he doesnt turn out to be like billyb...a real pain in the ass colombiano....you know the type, right???

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

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pablo says on Apr 30, 2009, 16:29:

Escape Artist,

Good thread! It seems like you have a very good handle on what to bring with you. There isn't too much more I would suggest you bring except a few items. I would suggest bringing a 3-4" high density memory foam topper for your mattress. Also, certain food items are either unavailable in Colombia or very expensive. Some examples off the top of my head are pistachios, almonds, walnuts, Romano cheese, sun dried tomatoes in olive oil, solid albacore tuna, chocolate covered Bing cherries (other good quality chocolate) all available at Costco at decent prices.

It sounds like you like to cook and do some entertaining. I'd also bring down a quality wine cork remover, the kind that grab the exterior rim and with wrist movement the corkscrew enters then extracts the cork. Cheap at Costco, expensive here. I brought in a few nice pocketknives and a Leatherman utility knife. They make great gifts as well as being useful to carry on you. I'd also recommend checking in a small stun gun hidden in some inconspicuous place with the batteries in another piece of luggage that is CHECKED in (not carry on). One unit that is very small and is the size of an old beeper packing a HUGE wallop is the "Small Fry". (http://www.betterhomesecurity.com/_Small_Fry_900,000_Volt_Mini_Stun_Gu...) It won't help against a dude packing a gun but might help in other situations. (Remove the stick on ID labels.)

As you know, anything electronic will be more expensive because of the import taxes therefore I'd bring a nice camera, iPod, unlocked SIM cell phone, rechargeable batteries and charger, Cuisinart food processor, Vitamix blender, etc.

For the health conscious I'd bring fluoride free toothpaste and aluminum free underarm deodorant. Bring some Real Salt, (sea salt) as it is fluoride free. The table salt here has added fluoride. I would also bring a two or three stage water filter system with extra charcoal filters. If space isn't a concern a good RO system. Include an assortment of large bottles of vitamins too. Don't forget protein whey powder for your smoothies.

Some nice plastic wrap and perhaps some ziplock baggies.

Que mas?

ʇı dןǝɥ ʇou ןןıʍ sıɥʇ ǝʞıן ɹǝʇndɯoɔ ɹnoʎ ƃuıpןoɥ

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pedro (☼Travelguide writer) says on Apr 30, 2009, 17:09:

pablo says on Apr 30, 2009, 17:12:

pedro says, "Protein whey powder can be bought here in Colombia at any tienda naturista."

Si, claro pero mucho mas costoso, cierto?

Another item I would bring down is a quality folding "professional style" massage table and some massage oils. If you enjoy candles they are expensive in Colombia.

ʇı dןǝɥ ʇou ןןıʍ sıɥʇ ǝʞıן ɹǝʇndɯoɔ ɹnoʎ ƃuıpןoɥ

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Escape Artist says on Apr 30, 2009, 17:17:

Señor pablo: Thanks for the kudos and I would also like to thank all of the people who have contributed to not only this post but to pbh in general for making it worth my time to read the past threads. I've learned a lot in doing so and was entertained a bit along the way. I've actually spent a total of ten months in Medellin since June of '07 so I'm not a total newbie but I won't turn down the opportunity to learn more.

The mattress I'm having shipped down is a pillow top so I don't think I'll need to bring a "memory foam topper". I hear you when it comes to certain food items. I know I can bring CHEESE, chocolates and canned or bottled items but can one bring raw or roasted nuts in to Colombia?

Yes, I do like to cook and entertain. I plan on having small groups of friends over every Sunday for dinner. A friend of mine in Medellin was doing that for a short while but he got too busy so it kinda petered out and I'd like to rekindle that when I get settled there. Already have a couple of wine openers there but the "Rabbit corkscrew" you mentioned is not on my priority list. It's a very nice tool but I use a good quality corkscrew, the kind you find at nice restaurants and bars, because they are much faster than messing with the Rabbit and a lot less bulky. I have a Leatherman but I use it here a lot and keep it in my vehicle for emergency's and such. As for something to carry on me, I plan on that being my Sig Sauer P229 .40 S&W. ;-)

I'm bringing both of my iPods and a couple of digital cameras along with my antique Canon A-1 35 mm. Blender is already packed and my cell phone is in Medellin waiting for me to return. I have a new Cuisinart food processor along with a new 5 qt Kitchen Aid stand mixer but they will have to follow on a later trip because they're in my winter house. Not sure why I would need batteries and a charger, I'll have to think about that one. The massage tables will have to wait as they too are in my other house. Good call on the candles but unfortunately I'm getting close to my weight limit now so I'll have to wait and see.

In the mean time thanks for your constructive input and if you think of anything else feel free to fire away!

EA

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 30, 2009, 17:19:

How do you plan on bringing your Sig here?

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

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Escape Artist says on Apr 30, 2009, 17:21:

There are ways... legally.

EA

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pablo says on Apr 30, 2009, 17:24:

Escape Artist says, "I plan on that being my Sig Sauer P229 .40 S&W."

Purchased in Colombia I presume? Could you fill us in on how difficult it was obtaining a license and the process involved?

How about a Vonage router to make and receive calls from the States.

You could use those rechargeable batteries for remotes, flashlights (MiniMags), camera flash, etc.

I've never been questioned about nuts each and every time I visit. Speaking of nuts, bring some almond butter, better for you than peanut butter, and it isn't available in COL.

ʇı dןǝɥ ʇou ןןıʍ sıɥʇ ǝʞıן ɹǝʇndɯoɔ ɹnoʎ ƃuıpןoɥ

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Escape Artist says on Apr 30, 2009, 17:31:

To be honest I haven't done all my homework on importing my guns but from what I read here you can legally import a firearm in to Colombia. My plan is to move there first and then start the process with INDUMIL and bring my guns on a future trip.

If anyone has SOLID information about the importation of firearms please don't hesitate to chime in.

EA

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Escape Artist says on Apr 30, 2009, 17:44:

Hmmm.. That might be a tough on gloid, I have a MacBook Pro (it's a laptop).

EA

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La_Huella says on Apr 30, 2009, 17:44:

English keyboard is a good idea.

I dunno exactly how much that bike would sell for, but I'll ask next time I'm at the bike shop. I'm actually looking at buying a cheap bike here and shipping it up to NYC for June. It's just so much cheaper to get around on a bike there. I regret selling my bike up there before I moved, I shoulda just stored it. For the $130 I got for it, I ended up wasting so much time on slow ass subways and buses and walking (sometimes faster than the bus there).

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 30, 2009, 17:47:

Good luck with your legal means...i have done extensive research on it, and unless you have a military contact who ingores the laws, next to impossible. Then you will need even more luck finding 40 cal ammo if you get it here.....

yup, i also would like to hear from how others have actually done it, and are not repeating shit heard from others.......

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

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billyb says on Apr 30, 2009, 17:49:

I think gator knows the ins and outs of gun permits in Cols.

"All I want to know is where I'm going to die, so I never go there" Unkown (at least to me) wise man.

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 30, 2009, 17:52:

yup, he knows the regulations, but gun permits are not the same as importation of firearms.....different animal...there was one guy here who claimed he had gone through the process years ago, i believe...cant remember his name, but i would know it if i heard it....i think he lives in Panama now.....was also real knowledgeable in real estate.....

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

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Escape Artist says on Apr 30, 2009, 18:04:

La_Huella: The frame for my bike was almost $3000 so me thinks we are talking about completely different beast here!

EA

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billyb says on Apr 30, 2009, 18:05:

A while back when I was living in Cali, we, 3 sisters and I (whole nother story) formed a company were we used to bring in hunters from the US south, and they were allowed to bring in their shotguns, but had to buy the ammo from Indumil. Of course those permits were only for a very limited time frame.

"All I want to know is where I'm going to die, so I never go there" Unkown (at least to me) wise man.

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Escape Artist says on Apr 30, 2009, 18:06:

Well... with regards to the importation of firearms, if it can be done I'll get it done. My contacts in Colombia are pretty high up the food chain (almost as high as you can get).

EA

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 30, 2009, 18:21:

sporting rifles are easy to bring in, there is an import limit of 1 per family when relocating. Handguns are a separate category....i dont even thinkg INDUMIL carries 40 cal...only 45 and 9mm

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

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ujay says on Apr 30, 2009, 18:38:

a suit case full of money.....

http://www.jukelightning.com

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ujay says on Apr 30, 2009, 18:49:

i had 2 IGUANAS in the garden ,i like them ,you don't need shoot them ,they cant harm you ,hardly every bite ,they just try hit you with the tail,
but if you roast them they are nice with ginger .....

http://www.jukelightning.com

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jinksmiester says on Apr 30, 2009, 18:53:

Bring a potatoe masher...seem impossible to find in colombia.Id bring a bunch of pachaged stir fry mixes..also difficult to find...perhaps some cherry whiskey as the ladys seem to like it

A man is not old until regret takes the place of dreams

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ujay says on Apr 30, 2009, 18:56:

potato masher are every where ,stir fry you find most places ,look in the packets normally in where all the soups are.

http://www.jukelightning.com

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Escape Artist says on Apr 30, 2009, 19:05:

For iguanas we use a Benjamin 392 ACP https://www.airgunsofarizona.com/BenjaminACP.htm and to keep the vultures from crappin' the pool we use a slingshot.

And for the rats we use Furadan (Carbofuran) but you have to be careful with it and be sure the raccoons, opossums and stray cats don't get eat it. Nasty stuff!

EA

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Escape Artist says on Apr 30, 2009, 19:18:

And one other item I forgot to mention... Fennel seed! I love good Italian sausage and I couldn't find any in Medellin so I'm going to make my own. Spaghetti just isn't spaghetti without good Italian sausage. ;-)

EA

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dwmte7 says on May 1, 2009, 05:26:

escape artist....i don't want to weigh down this already weighty thread.....neither have i read through it. if you'ld like to pm me en re the above i'd be glad to share some prudent thoughts on a subject which experience has given me more information than any man could want or need. i've shipped our household and shop back and forth to colombia three times and am full aware of what can be bought, what's worth leaving at home and what the issues you'll face moving your belongings to colombia.

douglas

patriarch

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jusjoseph (☼Travelguide writer) says on May 1, 2009, 20:36:

goin_south says on May 1, 2009, 21:31:

who needs 'fine or coarse' ground pepper??? when in the presence of una colombianita muy pemienta? jaj

nothin I say is to be takn for my words, but rather for the words of Sailor Jerry.

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Miguel_Clavo says on May 1, 2009, 23:55:

"I say bring the U.S. taxpayer's money to the fair country of Colombia to evenly and fairly distribute to its poor, disenfranchised, uneducated, ignorant, ugly, beggardly, homeless, bastardly, shoes-covered-in-dung, masses. "

i do that every time i buy billyb a beer............who would have known??????????

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

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billyb says on May 2, 2009, 00:11:

Hey, if you want to hang out with us poor, uneducated, ignorant, disenfranchised, but chick magnet Colombians, you has to pays the piper.

"All I want to know is where I'm going to die, so I never go there" Unkown (at least to me) wise man.

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Miguel_Clavo says on May 2, 2009, 08:06:

jajaj..you left out this part though:

"ugly, beggardly, homeless, bastardly, shoes-covered-in-dung"....seems UClown knows you pretty well....were you two tight at some point in time????? Hmmmmmm............

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

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Robert Jorge says on May 3, 2009, 20:03:

Yep, you can bring in ONE "sporting" firearm into Colombia if you are moving. But, handguns - especially semis, are NOT considered sporting.

"You can not take the barrio out of the girl you really can't." Oneforamillion

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Lisa Zee says on May 3, 2009, 22:35:

Great info here, I will save this thread for when I am ready for the big move. I always wonder how much is it going to cost to bring my many, very heavy photo albums.
How about bringing spices? do we have in Colombia cayenne, turmeric, all the Indian spices?

Vive la vida y deja vivir!.

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Escape Artist says on May 4, 2009, 10:15:

I forgot something! I don't recall if there are quality plastics in Medellin, specifically Tupperware® types of sealable containers for food left overs. Does anyone know it this type of stuff is available and if so how is the quality?

EA

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Robert Jorge says on May 4, 2009, 12:27:

Escape, bring your own plastic containers. Hardly any weight. They are available in Colombia - though I never saw anybody use them where I was. I imagine they are relatively costly to buy over there.

"You can not take the barrio out of the girl you really can't." Oneforamillion

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kenblanquito says on May 4, 2009, 18:44:

Talking of plastic containers, I too would bring your own which are guaranteed to be of food quality, like Tupperware.
The plastics used for food here may not comply with EC or North American standards which may mean that certain chemicals may leach out of the plastic and into the foodstuff, particularly when either placed in a fridge or used for microwaving/defrosting. Plastics can contain carcinogens. Good advice Robert Jorge.

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Robert Jorge says on May 5, 2009, 00:13:

Bring a good shower head and a few toilet seats also. Sounds funny, but I am serious. If you end up not needing them, you will be able to sell them VERY easily.

"You can not take the barrio out of the girl you really can't." Oneforamillion

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Miguel_Clavo says on May 5, 2009, 09:47:

You can buy Tupperware brand products for food storage in Home Centers...i have bought several of them, a little pricier than the US...they even have Ziploc brand storage and freezer bags....

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

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La_Huella says on May 5, 2009, 10:11:

EA, that's what I said, I really have no interest in such a high end item so I don't have any first hand information. It might well be more expensive here, or it could be at half the price. But most people who ride bikes don't ride $6000 USD bikes, especially not here. The average bike here costs around 200k pesos and could be had in the US for about twice the price. I just want to make sure people know that bicycles ON AVERAGE are actually a lot cheaper here, as are parts and labor.

I would also strongly recommend AGAINST anybody taking a bike THAT expensive out on a regular basis here.

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Miguel_Clavo says on May 5, 2009, 11:43:

My Specialized bike runs around $1500, and i ride that thing all over Ctg, even Torrices, the barrio LH says is overrun by machinegun toting gangs...its one of the barrios closest to mine.....i guess they fear specialized bikes or something...the krypton of the gangs in Torrices?.....

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

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Tinto (Moderator) (Trustee board) says on May 5, 2009, 11:50:

Please buy GLAD brand bags and food containers made by the Clorox Company, not that crappy ZIPLOC stuff from S.C. Johnson & Company.

I thought my bleach investment (Clorox stock) was going to be a winner after Hurricane Katrina (wrong); then after natural gas, chemical and plastic prices came down (wrong again); and then after Swine Flu (wrong once more!). Every night I pray for a disaster of Biblical proportions where the world needs trucks, trains and ships full of disinfecting bleach but it just ain't happenin'.

;-)

-Dr. Doom

I wanted access to health care, housing and education, but, no, I get potholes, trash and silicone tits instead. -Desi.

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Escape Artist says on May 5, 2009, 12:10:

Thanks for all the feed back. I forgot about pepper and a pepper mill!

I'll buy some Rubbermaid plastic containers and bring them down. They have a set at Costco that's pretty complete and priced right!

La Huella: Thanks for the comments on the bike, I appreciate your input. I would say it appears if anyone wants a heavy steel framed bike without spending too much plata then it might be best for them to buy locally. As I've mentioned previously I'm an avid mountain biker so that is not an option for me. My bike is already in Medellin with no plans for it to return to the states anytime soon. As far as a $6000 USD bike, my bike didn't quite cost that much but yes, it was expensive. And believe it or not I have seen and been riding with guys/gals on equally expensive bikes in Medellin. There are people with money who can afford quality bikes and they're not afraid of riding it in public for fear of them being bike jacked.

Thanks MC for the heads up on the Zip Locks! (Sorry Tinto, I'm a Zip Lock guy from way back, and oh did I mention in my much younger days one of my first loves was a girl with the last name of Johnson) ;-)

EA

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Escape Artist says on May 5, 2009, 12:15:

Okay now I have another question....

Does anyone have any SOLID information on the availability of Argon, Carbon Dioxide tanks? I plan on bringing my MIG welder down on a future trip and would like to use the gas as opposed to flux-cored wire, it's so much cleaner than all the splatter you get with flux-cored wire.

And one more question about the availability of Nitrogen tanks, are they available? I use air tools when I'm at the race track and rather than bring a big compressor I use Nitrogen for the air tools along with using it in my tires.

Thanks in advance for your help!

EA

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Escape Artist says on May 5, 2009, 12:29:

RJ: Sorry I missed your comment until now... No worries about a shower head for me as I'm already having a nice one from the Hansgrohe line installed in my place. And as far as the toilet seats are concerned I've got it covered (no pun intended) there also since along with the all fixtures I'm having installed in my new place I've also changed all the toilets to a nice Kohler crapper.

EA

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poco says on May 5, 2009, 16:49:

Quote: Thanks Tinto but the upgrade to First Class would not be cost effective when it comes to 40 extra pounds and I'm not an Elite member so I'll have to deal with coach and the limitations put on that class.
====================================
Then,, you probably won't get three extra bags. There are excess baggage embargos. I'd call the airline to make sure.

Then again, maybe you wouldn't be bothered if the check in clerk said,, sorry we won't accept three extra bags,, AT ANY PRICE,, so,, I'd suppose you could leave them for a friend to pickup. I'd bet a cab driver could take them back to your house,, oh,, maybe you won't have a house?

The best deal is the 20 lb overweight for 50 bucks. You might discover ONLY two check in bags are allowed if you're flying a normal economy class.

Funny,,, folks now say "stuff is more expensive", "less quality",, tickles me to hear this because folks keep insisting Colombia is cheap,, well,, beer,, eating out, women,, not much else, maybe housing but the nicer areas of the cities can't be purchased for "peanuts".

Live in an estrato 4 and electricity will cost more.



PS: Furniture,, of all the things mentioned,, I'd say Furniture is on the BOTTOM of the list,, especially if you're paying much to ship. Furniture is NOT very expensive in Colombia.

Colombian Chickens are crowing about the new President of the U.S. who will assure that From each according to their ability to each according to their need.

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Escape Artist says on May 5, 2009, 16:56:

Thanks for the info. poco but know I've spoken with the airline, American Airlines, several times and, yes, I am allowed three extra checked bags up to 50#'s not exceeding 2 linear inches for $100 USD each. This is an international flight, as opposed to a domestic flight, and as of this writing those are the policies of the airline I'm flying.

The $50 extra bucks for the 20#'s over weight bags isn't a great deal but it's not over the top either.

Here's the best deal:

"Checked baggage weighing over 70lbs/32 kgs but not more than 100 lbs/45 kgs will be charged at the rate of $100 per piece."

The big stuff is going through a freight forwarder so at this time I'm not too concerned about that.

EA

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Escape Artist says on May 5, 2009, 17:00:

azuman: You can get "American" style mustard at Pomona. A bit pricey but it is available. I'm not positive but I think it was Coleman's mustard. I realize it's not French's but it will do in a pinch especially when you are going through mustard withdrawals.

EA

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Escape Artist says on May 5, 2009, 17:07:

I'm a "French's" mustard guy myself so I know the feeling!

EA

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Escape Artist says on May 5, 2009, 17:24:

As of this writing I have about 2500 lbs of stuff, new fridge, oven/range, built-in microwave, Weber gas grill along with my used items, washer/dryer, king size mattress, piano (crated) and what is known as a pit mule for all of my tools and welder (which follows on a future trip) that is going through a freight forwarder in Miami and on my next flight down I will have five checked bags and a carry-on with a personal item all totaling about 335 lbs.

EA

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Escape Artist says on May 5, 2009, 17:27:

I'M WORKING ON IT!

EA

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La_Huella says on May 5, 2009, 17:47:

Wow, I wouldn't have wanted to ride a $1500 bike in NYC where it's a lot less likely to get ripped off than here.

There is a district where they sell all that stuff in Bogota, on the edge of downtown. I'll ask some people in the conjunto, maybe the todero would know about the welding thing.

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Escape Artist says on May 5, 2009, 17:49:

Thanks La_Huella! I'll wait to hear back from you.

EA

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iphone says on May 6, 2009, 23:24:

condoms lots of condoms..............hahahahahahha

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Robert Jorge says on May 7, 2009, 01:24:

I never had a need for them, but I heard the Colombian condoms are severely poor quality. Just what I heard - never bought nor used one. So assuming what I heard is even a fraction of the truth, I have to say iphone has good advice - unless you are like me and have no need for such things.

"You can not take the barrio out of the girl you really can't." Oneforamillion

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La_Huella says on May 7, 2009, 09:26:

Some are fine, some are like putting a lead jacket on Junior :P

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Escape Artist says on May 7, 2009, 09:43:

CORRECTION! It wasn't Coleman's mustard at Pomona, it was McCormick's.

EA

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Escape Artist says on May 7, 2009, 17:29:

I thought this was useful information and wanted to share it with those reading this thread so I copied and pasted it here from another thread I started:

Escape Artist says on May 7, 2009, 13:22 (today): flag

BTW, I am learning a ton about shipping personal items down to Colombia and one thing I have yet to read here on pbh is the fact they, the freight forwarders, use two types of weight calculations

Example: One weight is the "Gross Weight" of an object and the other is its "Volume Weight". What this means is you may have something big like a king size mattress which has a "Gross Weight" of only 100 lbs but it has a "Volume Weight" of 525 lbs and that, the "volume Weight", is what they use to calculate your shipping charges.

Here is how the "Volume Weight" calculation is done for anyone wishing to figure it out themselves:

Height X Width X Length (in inches) = Cubic Inches. Then divide the cubic inches by 156 and the end result is your "Volume Weight". Formula: H X W X L = cu in / 156 = "Volume Weight"

Moral of the story is if it is big, but not heavy in "Gross Weight", it might behoove you to leave it and buy it in Colombia. That is of course if you can part with it and hopefully find something comparable in Colombia.

EA

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pablo says on May 19, 2009, 15:29:

poco says, "Then,, you probably won't get three extra bags. There are excess baggage embargos. I'd call the airline to make sure."

A friend of mine came to Colombia on Continental and they do NOT allow extra bags because they have an excess bag embargo (their rule). He had six extra boxes that needed to come down so he hired a freight forwarder out of Atlanta called Express Air Freight and paid $650 to get it to Bogota. Once there it needed to clear customs and close to four weeks later they are still jacking him around. First they claimed that the vitamins (unopened and sealed) were of a commercial quantity even though it was stated they were for personal use (six month supply). Then they changed their classification to personal use but then objected to used blankets, towels and clothes which needed a special import license! He was also requested a copy of the customs form that was given out on the airplane (that is turned in upon arrival), every page of his passport that had a stamp, the airway bill, deposit of around 900.000 COP into their account, power of attorney and now another person is informing him that he was originally working with the wrong person with INTRAMAR in Bogota and that the vitamins and all food will be confiscated. It is not known whether the remainder of the shipment will be released or if those thieving SOBs will steal those items as well. What an inept bunch of bozos!

Escape Artist, I hope that your shipment doesn't have the same hassles as my friend did.

ʇı dןǝɥ ʇou ןןıʍ sıɥʇ ǝʞıן ɹǝʇndɯoɔ ɹnoʎ ƃuıpןoɥ

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Escape Artist says on May 22, 2009, 09:27:

NEWS FLASH!

American Airlines (the airline I'm traveling on) has instituted baggage restrictions from June 6th thru August. NO BOXES! I'm screwed! I had custom boxes made and I packed weighed and repacked and weighed again and now I can't bring them. This is a BAD thing! Looks like J.J. Logistics will be getting more of my business.

So... Moral of the story is, when speaking with the airline reps be sure to tell them your travel dates (I did) and be prepared for them to change their information at any given moment. I was told today be the aa.com rep they must not have posted the baggage restrictions when I called and inquired about their baggage rules two weeks ago.

EA

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Escape Artist says on May 23, 2009, 17:38:

I'm still bringing everything I had originally planned. As it turns out the cost will be about the same as bringing it aboard as checked baggage, actually a bit cheaper. I am shipping the boxes via a R&L Carriers to J.J. Logistics in Miami and from there Rafael will put them on an airplane as unaccompanied baggage. The only real difference is the boxes will not arrive on the sam flight and I will have to make an extra trip up to the airport in Rionegro.

I just bought my stainless cookware set along with a set of plastic containers (Rubbermaid) and a few cutting boards. I also just ordered the refrigerator, gas oven/range, matching microwave and a Weber natural gas grill and had them drop shipped to J.J. Logistics. The packing company is coming on Tuesday to pick up my piano, washer/dryer and bed and will be building a custom crate for the piano and special boxes with pallets attached for the other items. I think I'm finally done! It's been a long process but I must say I've learned a lot and if anyone needs advice feel free to pm me.

Oh yeah one more thing... I'm having the blowout Memorial weekend moving sale and so far so good. Even though most everyone coming are cheap bastards I seem to be getting better than normal garage sale prices. Sold my four year old patio set for $375 USD not bad for something I paid just over $500 USD for.

EA

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pablo says on May 29, 2009, 21:27:

EA,

Does the box restriction also include the bicycle box? When are you making your trip? I hope that you please give us an update after your shipment arrives as I'd be curious what sort of hassles you will encounter such as taxes/customs, prohibited items, hidden charges, damages and theft.

If Medellin is anything like Bogota I would advise that you bring with you either in checked or carry on luggage all your vitamins. Bogota customs will confiscate all of them if they think the quantity is more than what they deem personal use. Maybe Medellin has less restrictions.

Based on what many have reported about shipping large amounts of goods into Colombia I think that you will find this little exercise to be a real pain in the arse. Hopefully you'll be the exception.

ʇı dןǝɥ ʇou ןןıʍ sıɥʇ ǝʞıן ɹǝʇndɯoɔ ɹnoʎ ƃuıpןoɥ

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Escape Artist says on Sep 17, 2009, 10:00:

Update...

I brought everything described in the thread above, with the exception of the new appliances, with no problems. Dian inspected my things and asked me if I had anything "new" and I explained the only thing new in this shipment was a set of stainless cookware. I was not charged for it even after they looked at the box and its contents. They never even looked at the cntents of a huge wooden crate which contained my piano.

The other new items I am bringing down are still in a warehouse in Miami waiting for a couple of addtional items and then I will haver them shipped down via air cargo as I did all of my household possesions. I will update again once that happens and let everyone know what fees etc. they charge me for the new appliances etc.

EA

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