Shipping a bike disassembled?

[JoeHilo]

Recently I purchased a DRZ400s for a around the world trip. During initial preparations, I disassembled the bike to repack all bearings. While working on the bike, it occurred to me that I might be able to ship the bike in 3 components. Each package would be listed as motorcycle parts. Only the frame, engine and gas tank would need ‘hazard material’ status. I figured each package would weigh less than the 175 pound limit once stated by Emery Express.

People here in Hawaii once used this method to ship motorcycles from the mainland.

My question is this; has anybody ever shipped a motorcycle dissembled, and in separate packages? If so, what is the status with customs? Does a shipping package labeled as ‘motorcycle parts’ equal to the same cost of importing a completed motorcycle? Would shipping the packages to a friend in your destination be difficult? When putting the bike together, are there problems with legality of riding that bike if it has not been cleared by customs?

My problem areas for shipping are; the United States to S.E. Asia to India. Maybe this might be a solution?

Any input would be greatly appreciated.