Bargaining for your carnet
 

I received a 75% discount on my Iranian carnet after a week of begging, pleading and sweet talking. The initial cost was about US12K (if my bike was two years newer it would have cost double this!) - I eventually paid about US$3K. It seems there is some flexibility for auto clubs to reduce the price if they think you are a good risk. Proving to be of good character with a responsible position in a respected company all helps (and any other platitudes you can lay on yourself - "I have fathered seven fine sons"). Eventually the office manager called the organisation manager in Dubai for the ok to drop the price. I suspect this might be possible in many other countries where there is less stress on objective, transparent bureaucracy.

cheers
Brett

[This message has been edited by BrettUAE (edited 27 March 2006).]

I can confirm the same experience from Sharjah Automobile Club so at least in the UAE there is some flexibility.