Taking business samples to Germany?

[Soterik]

I've started a small company and want to show some of the samples at a show in Germany. The show is in about 10 days, so trying to find a broker on both ends doesn't appear to be something I really have the time to do..

Any thoughts?

I was thinking of fedex'ing them as gifts to a friend in Germany who is going to join me at the show. I can always send them back, or bring them back easily (I've checked the US customs laws on returning residents, and it's $800 worth).

I've tried to find info on walking through customs with them in my carry-on, but nothing I've read looks very encouraging, and I'd prefer to not have to give them up to customs. I'd also rather not mutilate anything, as this might detract from the samples.

So, I'm thinking Fedex "as gifts".

????

thanks,
Eric

BTW, yes it's for Essen, and it's vintage longhood items.

[9dreizig]

If you have paperwork that shows "samples not for sale" with declared value you should have no problem. I would carry them with me on board. I've been in and out of Germany many times with no problems

[red-beard]

No need to caryy them on-board, as customs is after bag pickup. Declare the items as business samples, not for sale, to be returned to USA. Have a commercial invoice stating all of this.