Hello everyone,
This is a long message
I am seeking advice about sending a DJI drone to the Hong Kong service center for repairs, as there isn’t an official DJI repair center in South Africa. The customs procedure has got me confused. Here’s my situation: 1. The Crash: The drone just out of warranty, rented from a gear house, had a severe crash and is currently non-functional. Local third-party repair services have assessed it as uneconomical to repair over here in South Africa I assume due to labour and lack of expertise. 2. Service Center Details: Based on recommendations from many of my associates, I’ve decided to send the drone to DJI’s service center in Hong Kong. DJI Support has issued me a service number for this. 3. Ownership: The drone is owned by the rental gear house. They have provided me with: • Their original invoice from a local reseller, proving that it is a legitimate import and duties protocal had been followed and paid. • I understand I will need a letter from them authorizing me to act on their behalf. 4. Drone Status and Value Declaration: • The drone is used and non-functional. • I plan to declare its value in its current state and clearly label it as “Non functional - Temporary Repair and Return” to avoid excessive import duties. I would not declare the original purchase value, as this does not reflect its current condition and market price seeing as MV3P kits are starting to come down and the kit was purchased as combo and I wont be sending all the components just the drone. 5. Return to South Africa: I am aware that I will be liable for import duties and VAT on the costs of repairs or replacements carried out. i am just worried I will have to pay for the whole import again if I declare current value.
My Questions: 1. Has anyone shipped a damaged drone to Hong Kong for repairs recently from across the globe? Was it viable in terms of costs? 2. Is it correct to declare the current value of the drone (as non-working) instead of its original purchase value? 3. Are there any specific steps to ensure customs in China and South Africa do not charge excessive duties? 4. Are there any potential pitfalls I should be aware of when handling this process?
This is my last attmept to get the rental houses drone repaired. Any advice or shared experiences would be greatly appreciated!
Thank you!
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lvl.1
Administrator
