So, you bagged a moose in Canada and now you’re staring at a giant rack of antlers (or maybe the whole head) wondering: How on earth do I get this thing home? Don’t worry—you’re not the first person to wrestle with moose logistics. Here’s a practical (and slightly absurd) guide to help you out.
Step 1: Get the Paperwork
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You’ll need an export permit from Canadian Fish & Wildlife. Your outfitter may provide it, but if not, contact the local office (or the CITES office in Whitehorse).
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Keep a copy of your hunting license and gun permit handy. Border officers may ask to see them.
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Some hunters also recommend taking a photo of your moose to prove ownership.
Step 2: Choose Your Taxidermy Option
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Rug / Mount / Skull: A taxidermist can prepare the moose head in the form you want (rug, shoulder mount, European mount, etc.) and handle packaging.
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Full Head Shipment: Possible, but expect weight, size, and smell issues. Most people go the taxidermy route first.
Step 3: Packing the Moose
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For antlers and mounts, use a custom-built crate or oversized box. Reinforce with foam or blankets to prevent breakage.
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UPS and FedEx can technically ship moose parts, but you’ll want to check maximum dimensions and freight services. USPS usually won’t handle something that large.
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Airlines may let you check antlers as oversized baggage, but you’ll need to call ahead. Imagine explaining that at the counter.
Step 4: Crossing the Border
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Present your paperwork (export permit, hunting license, taxidermy receipt).
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Declare the moose head honestly—don’t try to sneak it through, unless you want an awkward conversation about contraband ungulates.
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Pay any applicable duties, fees, or inspection charges. Reports vary from $40 to several hundred dollars.
Step 5: Delivery & Customs Surprises
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Be prepared for delays if customs wants to inspect.
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Sometimes border officers just wave it through with a “Have a nice day,” but don’t count on it.
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If you’re shipping commercially, budget extra for freight forwarding, brokerage, and handling fees.
Pro Tips
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Call ahead to your carrier (UPS/FedEx/freight company) and ask specifically about “animal trophies” to avoid surprises.
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Don’t cheap out on the crate. A broken antler in transit is heartbreaking.
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Plan for cost. Between taxidermy, permits, and shipping, your moose souvenir could easily run into four figures.
Final Word
Shipping a moose head isn’t as simple as slapping a label on it and dropping it in the mail. It takes permits, patience, and usually a taxidermist. But with the right prep, your Canadian hunting trophy can make it safely to your US home—antlers intact.
