I'm sorry to say that, for us in the shipping business, US customs are a nightmare. Since many years wine can't be shipped to USA if addressed to private individuals; import companies need a special license to do it too. In addition, as from December 2003, as a protection against bio-terrorism, all foodstuff going into USA needs a sort of prior notice sent to US Customs/FDA, even if addressed to private persons as above. This operation is performed by shipping companies at some cost. Of course there are still the usual restrictions about meat products and spirits. All those rules are meant for shipments only and not for things you carry with you. Bye

Paolo Trieste, Italy