Hi guys,

Hate to start a new thread on Carnets, but think I've read most of the posts/stickies/pages on HUBB, as well as googled to exhaustion, and still feeling uncertain. I am an AUS citizen, living in AUS for now, own a UK registered bike presently stored in UK, planning to overland from UK back to AUS next year.

1. My understanding is that my practical option for a Carnet in my circumstances is through RAC, under Insurance Indemnity. I infer that this has become the only increasingly expensive option because a lot of vehicles don't end up being re-imported to the UK. But what do I do if I definitely do not intend to re-import to the UK, rather, permanently import my bike in AUS, or if this proves too expensive, have it disposed in AUS? I do not wish to worsen the Carnet attainability situation for everyone, but I don't believe I will be able to practically overland back to AUS without one. Am I wrong in going for a Carnet, knowing I won't be re-importing?

2. I tend to be an Honest Abe, but should I be so forthright when completing the RAC carnet application form? Where it asks if the vehicle will be permanently exported, do I answer yes? Will this effect my eligibility for a carnet through RAC?

3. Just to clarify, if I permanently import the bike to AUS do I get back my 50% of the Indemnity and deposit from discharging the carnet after I have paid the Customs and Duties taxes/fees here in AUS?

4. Alternatively, if I get it disposed in AUS do I get back my 50% of the Indemnity and deposit? What would this require? A letter/certificate of disposal/destruction from a workshop/wrecker, and/or the carnet Certificate of Location signed off by customs/police/transport authority? Does this have to be completed by customs/police/transport authority at my port of entry in AUS, or any authority in AUS?

5. Do I still have to pay Customs and Duties taxes/fees here in AUS if I dispose the bike?

6. Any idea if I can still keep the bike's fuel tank if I go the disposal route? Odd question, I know, but I've got a whole bunch of stickers all over the tank from my travels, so I'd love to hold onto it as a keepsake.

Thanks in advance,
Kenny