How can I tell if an item can be shipped to Hong Kong at this moment?

[chi-6947]

I bought a vintage camera and had it shipped to Hong Kong, and there was no sign or warning that it could not be shipped overseas when the order was made. Everything seemed fine until it reached the international shipping hub. The seller and I received a message that the camera cannot be shipped internationally, possibly due to "import restrictions or eligibility requirements". The seller got to keep the sale and I got a refund, which I am thankful for. However, it is also a vintage camera that no one knows where it will end up, which I feel kinda sad about. My question is, now I have found another similar item, but is there any way I can tell/check if it can be shipped internationally? I would love to have that camera, but I also don't wanna risk it going nowhere ever after. Thanks.

[eastlaneave · Accepted solution]

@chi-6947 

It sounds like the camera was shipped eBay International Shipping. Because they refund the buyer and seller, then they keep the camera and sell it. I don't know who or how they sell those items. But they aren't trashed.

However, I believe that all cameras are prohibited to be shipped to China (apparently including Hong Kong).

This would be a Chinese regulation, (or less likely if the US has prohibited the export of that type of item to China) 

Hong Kong rules for USPS are here: https://pe.usps.com/text/imm/fh_024.htm

China is here https://pe.usps.com/text/imm/ce_009.htm

The last item under prohibited items is: Wrist-watches, cameras, television sets, radio sets, tape records, bicycles, sewing machines, and ventilators.

So I think even if your item reached Hong Kong customs, it would be seized there.

I know that's frustrating.