A trophy shipment is only as good as its paperwork. We administer every permit and document your consignment needs — South African export permits, CITES, USFWS, EU TRACES — so it clears customs without costly delays.
The paperwork behind every trophy shipment
International trophy shipping is governed by layered regulations: South African export permits on the way out, CITES documentation for regulated species, and the import requirements of your home country on the way in. Missing or mismatched paperwork is the single most common cause of impounded shipments and storage penalties. Our permits team administers the full set for every consignment, coordinating with the issuing authorities so each document is in place before your cargo moves.
The majority of our consignments are USA-bound, and the requirements are specific: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service declaration (Form 3-177), CITES export permits for listed species, and clearance through a USFWS-designated port. We prepare the documentation, work with experienced clearing agents on the U.S. side, and keep you informed at every step — it's the route we know best.
Europe and the rest of the world
EU-bound trophies move under TRACES health certification alongside CITES requirements; other destinations each have their own rules. Wherever you are, we confirm your country's import requirements before the shipment leaves South Africa, so there are no surprises at the border.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a CITES permit for my hunting trophy?
Only for species listed under CITES (for example elephant, leopard, hippo and certain antelope). We confirm whether your species require CITES documentation and administer the permits if so.
What is USFWS Form 3-177?
It is the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service declaration required when importing wildlife products — including hunting trophies — into the United States. We prepare it as part of every USA-bound shipment.
What are the requirements for importing hunting trophies into the USA?
USA-bound trophies need a USFWS Form 3-177 declaration, CITES export permits for listed species, and clearance through a designated port. Most of our shipments go to the USA, so this process is our daily work.
How long do trophy permits take?
It varies by species and destination — CITES permits in particular can take time. We start the permit process early so documentation never delays your shipment.
Ready to ship?
Tell us what you're shipping and where it's going — a specialist will come back to you with a tailored plan and an itemised quote.
