Importing from the US from Badger Graphic

[Paul Greeves]

Hi. I have just sold a Sinar Norma 10x8 and I am looking to purchase a lighter, more portable replacement from the US. Does anyone have any experience of Badger Graphic and are they a good company to deal with? Also, I live in the UK and wondered I anyone else had imported a camera from the US before and whether it was a trouble free experience and how much duty and tax they were required to pay. Thanks.

[Rick Moore]

Jeff is as good and honest a dealer as you could ever hope to find.

[Ron Marshall]

I have dealt with them many times; they are the best.

[evan clarke]

Ditto, he is top notch..

[Paul Greeves]

Thanks guys. You do have to be careful who you are dealing with. Their prices seem very good, compared to what I would need to pay in the UK. I didn't know whether it was too good to be true.

[Ron Marshall]

If you don't mind my asking, what are you planning to replace the Norma with?

Hi. I have just sold a Sinar Norma 10x8 and I am looking to purchase a lighter, more portable replacement from the US. Does anyone have any experience of Badger Graphic and are they a good company to deal with? Also, I live in the UK and wondered I anyone else had imported a camera from the US before and whether it was a trouble free experience and how much duty and tax they were required to pay. Thanks.

[Paul Greeves]

I was thinking of a Canham JMC810. I did briefly own a wooden Canham, which developed a fault and the retailer wouldn't obtain a replacement for me and has refunded my money.

One of the joins on the Canham had come unstuck and the wood split as a result. I had the camera for just three weeks. Hens, my decision to try the all metal camera.

[Joanna Carter]

I live in the UK and wondered I anyone else had imported a camera from the US before and whether it was a trouble free experience and how much duty and tax they were required to pay.

The usual duty on photographic gear is around 6.5%. Then you will have to pay 15% VAT on the goods plus the shipping. Although there can (sometimes) be an advantage in getting stuff shipped by USPS/Parcel Force rather than the more well known couriers;
if you can guess what I mean

[Paul Greeves]

Thanks Joanna.

I'll have to do my sums. It looks like the camera will come via USPS, so I my escape the duty. Do you know how the duty is paid? Do customs contact me and ask for payment before releasing the goods?

[Joanna Carter]

It looks like the camera will come via USPS, so I my escape the duty.

I didn't say that

Do you know how the duty is paid? Do customs contact me and ask for payment before releasing the goods?

You will usually be left a notice stating that you need to pay the duty before it can be delivered or picked up; or they may collect it on delivery.