It’s happening

So far, so good. It’s all mine and paid for so now I’m just waiting for it to be shipped and arrive at Marseille.

I’m looking to clear it through customs myself without using an agent as there’s no duty to pay, just 20% VAT which I’ve already settled. I intend to pick it up from the port on a flatbed vehicle recovery trailer towed by my Kia as the crate only weighs about a tonne, so similar in weight to a car.

I’m assuming there will be loading facilities at the dock eg a large forklift, and the only information I don’t have is whether this will be free or chargeable. I’ve sent two enquiries to the port authorities using their contact form but have received no reply, so no surprises there then, as this is France.

Does anyone know? If not I’ll probably have to give them a call.

It’s a better machine than the original one I ordered which was never delivered and for which I was reimbursed. As shown in the video below, it has a hydraulic ‘thumb’ (behind the bucket which is used for picking things up such as logs and rocks) whereas the other machine had a very basic mechanical one. It also has its hydraulic lines enclosed in its beam which makes them less likely to be damaged.

I intend to build a ‘garage’ for it before it arrives. It’ll just be a temporary structure with a wooden frame and tarp walls and roof covering but I don’t want it to be standing out in the weather in the open when it’s not being used. I’m very excited and can’t wait to get my hands on it. 😀