Boat Gear in Transit through France

[Catopia]

We have a new Lagoon 450 coming out of the factory in France in October. Shortly thereafter we will be sailing her to the Caribbean. We want to send a few crates of gear to the boat but have been told duties and VAT will apply. The Boat is US flagged. Does anyone have experience with boat gear 'in transit' going into France?

[SabreKai]

I'd say get in touch with a good sized freight forwarder and ask them about it. They should know what is required to bring ship's stores to a flagged vessel. Assuming of course a yacht qualifies. I'm not sure it does. You are a private yacht, not a commercial vessel.

You could also call the French consulate and ask them for assistance.

[DeepFrz]

I'm surprised that the people at Lagoon don't know the answer to this.

[stillbuilding]

I do not think it important whether boat is commercial or leisure. More the point is whether or not the boat is 'in transit'. Not sure about boat that has never been out of France.