Total costs shipping Europe to U.S. (and back)

[pecha72]

Looking to ship my DL650 across the Atlantic to be picked up in the east coast of US mid-September 2009. Already got some quotes by ship to New York, or somewhere in Maryland (probably Annapolis) or Jacksonville, Florida, and I would think that they add up to somewhere around 550-750 USD, including everything at the departure end (Finland).


If you´ve transported your bike by sea between anywhere in Europe and the States, does that sound reasonable to you? There also seems to be a ro-ro option from somewhere in Central Europe or UK, but the prices seem to be somewhat higher.


And what about the receiving end, can anyone give any estimated figures, about how much it is likely to cost me to get it from the port in the US (I know it can vary from one port to another)? I´m planning to handle the unpacking and customs myself, if possible.


Also planning to return after just 6 weeks (goddamn work wont allow to stay longer!!) so then I´ll have to ship the thing back. Not sure, but this might take place from the west coast.


This same bike was shipped from Sydney to Helsinki by ship for under 700 USD, which I think was a good price, but picking it up at the port, even though it didnt overstay there at all, was almost 300 USD!


Also if you´ve had some positive experiences with certain freight companies or agents, and still have their contact info, that would be greatly appreciated! I already searched the shipping pages, and got a couple of possibly useful addresses from there.