Advice on bringing computers/electronics into SE Asia
 

Thinking of bringing some computer equipment (a new monitor and a Netbook specifically) with me when I volunteer with the PLF next month in Cambodia.

I've had to deal with some pretty interesting custom situations in other countries but have never traveled with anything into SE Asia before like this, so curious to get the experience of others who have done this.

I would assume I can pass the Netbook off as my own if its unpackaged and in my carry-on. But the monitor would be a bit more complicated since it needs to be somewhat boxed to transport.

Just interested in getting advice on what to expect, how to declare and anything else you think that's worth knowing.

Thanks in advance!

notebook no problem, but yes the monitor may incur a tariff

Not advisable Billy if it's an old CRT type monitor. If it's an LCD type monitor you can probably get away with it packed in your suitcase.

If it's a new monitor then consider buying it locally or in Thailand.

Pook, it would be a new computer monitor--MIGHT be able to fit it in my luggage packed in clothes. But maybe you and I can chat offline about purchasing one in BKK. I'll have 2 days to do it and maybe you can give me some suggestions?

For your reference Billy: http://www.tohome.com/catalog.aspx?catalog_id=685

Note that there are even cheaper models here and there are a lot of second hand monitors for sale as well.

I would agree with hanuman that you should wait and purchase it in Thailand.

My recollection is that arriving luggage is not subject to x-ray at airports in Cambodia, so IMO your only issue will be getting the box past the prying eyes of the Customs officials and hoping they don’t choose to pick you out and examine your bags. To improve your odds, I would put the box inside something like a Sportsac or duffle bag so that it is not immediately identifiable as a PC monitor. Load it onto your baggage cart with your other bags (preferably at the bottom or in the middle). Then just wheel it out past Customs.

They are not really looking for tourists to be sneaking in dutiable items, they are looking for returning locals trying to do so. So don’t give them any real reason to look at you.

Your other option is to simply declare the item. You can find information on doing this, and on tariff rates at http://www.customs.gov.kh/clearanceforpassengers.html, http://www.customs.gov.kh/dutyrateimports.html and http://www.customs.gov.kh/. The tariffs appear to be fairly high. If the items are worth more the US$300 it seems that a more complicated procedure may apply and this may take longer to complete the formalities to clear the items.

Personally, having brought more than my share of PCs, ipads and other electronics to friends and colleagues in India, I would suggest you just put the stuff in your bags and smile at the Customs man as you walk past.

Luggage in Thailand is not subject to x-ray, but you are not leaving the items there in any event and can show your onward tickets. (You might also try that in Cambodia if questioned, tell them you bought the item in Thailand and are bringing it back to the US; they may then ask you to register it to make sure you bring it out with you.)

I would be wary of putting a monitor packed only with clothes into a suitcase being checked onto an airline. It could break in transit. If it is still in the box OK, but clothes alone may not protect it sufficiently.

Billy, are you still planning to do this? I have two flat screen monitors that I was thinking of taking to Siem Reap, but I've been meaning to ask Lori if they can use them.

Mine are both used, so I can pack them in my bags. If they don't survive it would be sad, but not a huge loss.

When are you going? I was thinking of going around the 15th or so, but not sure if Lori can use my (limited) talents then.

I just (coincidentally) emailed you about this Lucy. Let's talk...

Billy, no email arrived. Can you check if it is still clinging to the inside of your computer?

;-)

if you're coming straight to cambodia, put whatever you want into your suitcase. No one checks. Not ever.

lori, I'm in town tomorrow. Me and Happy Pizza. Same place, same same. Lingha Bar?

Luckily, you don't have to hide your "happy" in your suitcase, as you can get it legally on your pizza.

Have fun, dogster!

Check your Facebook, lucy. ;)

@ dogster-- crap I think I missed it. U still here?

yup, arrived today. Here for a week, at least. No Happy. lol.

i shall stalk your alley very soon, like tomorrow. keep an eye out.

I'll be hanging around, looking for Happy and the other six dwarves. You can always buzz Hotel Be Angkor. It's not as if there are many guests... they'll probably know who I am.