[Nhcoll-l] FedEx & natural history specimens [SEC=OFFICIAL]

[Graham, Alastair (NCMI, Hobart)]

OFFICIAL


G'day

I have recently had a parcel returned to me by FedEx.  Their reason being dead preserved natural history specimens are a prohibited item in their freight network.  This is according to their SRG Prohibited items list.

I have used FedEx for over 12 years for loan shipments.  I have asked FedEx what has changed.  Apparently FedEx in Australia is using an AI system to check consignment documents and the system read 'fish' in my documents lodged with the parcel and flagged my parcel as prohibited in their network.

I have spoken to and emailed FedEx a number of times.  I have explained that:

*       The specimens are preserved according to standard natural history museum procedures.  The fish were originally fixed in 10% formalin.  Then transferred to 70% ethanol for long-term storage.
*       For transport, they have been wrapped in muslin cloth moistened with only a small quantity of 70% ethanol and sealed inside three plastic bags with absorbent material.  The specimens and their packing comply with Special Provision A180 of the IATA regulations on the air transport of Dangerous Goods.
*       I use Harmonized System Tariff code 9705.00.00 (or 9705.29.00.00 or 9705.29.00.90, depending on which code is accepted by the freight company's systems and the receiving country) on the documentation.
*       The description of the contents I use is "Preserved marine fish specimens for scientific study only.  Not restricted under Special Provision A180 of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations.  Non-hazardous, not for human consumption.  No commercial value.  Please refer to the attached documents for additional details."

Additionally, I have explained that the specimens are not perishable.  Thus, they do not require refrigeration or other environmental control.  I have also said that natural history museums everywhere send their specimens as per the above.

I am still waiting for an explanation from FedEx.  However, I am absolutely certain there is a misunderstanding by FedEx.  Unless, something has changed and FedEx will no longer accept natural history specimens.

Have you encountered the same problem with FedEx?

Cheers

Al

Alastair (Al) Graham
Fish Collection Manager
Australian National Fish Collection
National Research Collections Australia
CSIRO National Collections and Marine Infrastructure

P: +61 3 6232 5351 | M: +61 (0) 419 756 411 | F: +61 3 6232 5000
alastair.graham at csiro.au<mailto:alastair.graham at csiro.au> | www.csiro.au<http://www.csiro.au/>

Address: 3 Castray Esplanade, Hobart Tas 7000, Australia
Post: GPO Box 1538, Hobart Tas 7001, Australia




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