Brazil - LCD TVs to Brazil

Has anyone attempted to take 32" LCD TVs to Brazil as checked baggage? Did you get hit with oversize charges? Did they arrive safely?

Has anyone attempted to take 32" LCD TVs to Brazil as checked baggage? Did you get hit with oversize charges? Did they arrive safely?

You see this at the GRU baggage claim all the time! TVs, blu ray dvd players, etc. Original packaging seems to work best.

Yes.

A 27 flatscreen to Fortaleza, via Sampa. Multi-region 110-240 PAL M model. Please bear in mind that there are 3 electrical current zones in Brasil: 110, 157, and 220-240. A Costco set may not work in Fortaleza, and a Kaufhof set may not work in Rio.

The original shipping case and padding did not look like it would handle the long flight. I took the flatscreen out, and repackaged it. We used spray can foam insulation by covering and sealing the flatscreen with plastic, and then spraying the foam over it. The foam was then covered again in plastic wrap.

The package then fit inside a Rimowa Silver Integral aluminum case. I placed copies of the guide on top of the tv with a sign stating " FRAGIL " before closing the case, assuming it would be opened and examined ( It was ). The remotes (2), cordage, and original invoice and guide went in my hand carry. I then checked the case and held my breath.

POINT ONE: No excess baggage charges, as it was essentially checked baggage.

Note that I have property and Permanent Residency in Brasil. I was also aware the Customs in Brasil is very professional these days, having most electrical appliances costs by model on computer file. This is why you take your invoice copy and keep it honest at all times.

Upon arrival I was asked if I had anything to declare, and figuring that the case contents had already been scanned ( they had ), I declared the actual contents. ALL our cases then went on the conveyor and through the inspectors' x-ray. We were prepared.

The agent looked back at me with raised eyebrows as the machine clearly showed a large flatscreen. " Is this yours ? " I was asked. " Sim Senhor. Propetario " I replied and nodded, pulling out my RNE card.

The agent examined my card, smiled, and welcomed me to Brasil. The case then flew up on a domestic flight, and the flatscreen was undamaged. It continues to work fine. No charge.

POINT TWO: We took the responsibility of packaging the flatscreen. It worked fine.
POINT THREE: There is a limit on items brought to Brasil before duty is required. Around 500 CHF, more or less the same as USD.

One TV carried is quite straight forward. 2 flatscreens, 10 IPAD 2's, and 20 IPhone 4's dangeling from your cargo pockets, on a tourist visa is not very smart. Unless you like the idea of having all your items confiscated, and being the guest of the Brasilian Federal Justice system before being sent home persona non grata. It has happened. Most unwise.

I hope this is helpful. Oh yes, I started breathing again in Fortaleza.

Wow, I guess there is more to it which I should look out for. On my trips (non-resident), I check them in and walk them right out at customs. They take a glance and I'm off. Usually only have 1 item so would fall/near the limit.

Yeah, having 3 macbooks and 5 ipads will certainly not be a good idea!

Thanks for the good information! I am repackaging the TVs so they will withstand the trip. The TVs will be used in the south (110v/127v area). They are not PAL-M but we will be using them with external HDTV receivers, so that is not a problem. The cost of the TVs is around $300 each, so that is well under the $500 per person duty-free limit ($1000 combined) of taking merchandise into Brazil. Plus, my wife is Brazilian and she will have no problem talking with customs if there is any question. I like the spray foam idea.

Be sure of the total dimensions of the box. We took a 27 inch LCD TV as checked luggage. No problem. Your risk, of course. Whether Customs stops you is another question. Have the bill to show it's under $500 (?) value so you don't have to pay duty. As noted, unless the TV is dual voltage you need to be careful of the voltage ofyour destination. And, of course, there's the broadcast system. Costco does not sell PAL-M TVs. We use ours only for satellite TV. Check with your airline in advance to make sure they will accept it. We once ran into a problem with Delta's rule to not take computer and computer screens in checked luggage (we finally put he new PC in our carry-on bag, then when we got to the gate, all large carry-on bgs were put in the checked baggage hold since it was a commuter jet--- exacly where we were at first told the computer couldn't go).

Everything is going digital, so PAL-M compatibility really doesn't matter anymore. All DVD players, etc. are NTSC (not PAL-M.) The only other difference is the type of HD tuner. The US uses ATSC, Brazil uses ISDB. As long as you use an external tuner or digital cable/satellite box, that doesn't matter either. HDMI is the same both places.

Everything is going digital, so PAL-M compatibility really doesn't matter anymore. All DVD players, etc. are NTSC (not PAL-M.) The only other difference is the type of HD tuner. The US uses ATSC, Brazil uses ISDB. As long as you use an external tuner or digital cable/satellite box, that doesn't matter either. HDMI is the same both places.

"Going digital" (as in "está chegando") or IS digital now? Last time we shopped for Blu-Ray players in Brazil, were told some were multi-system and some not. Both the type of TV and type of tape need to be considered. If it's all irrelevant now, that's good news.

"Going digital" (as in "está chegando") or IS digital now? Last time we shopped for Blu-Ray players in Brazil, were told some were multi-system and some not. Both the type of TV and type of tape need to be considered. If it's all irrelevant now, that's good news.

I think the salespeople don't know what they're talking about. From what I've found, the US and Brazil are in the same BluRay region (Region A) so players/discs should be interchangeable. Both countries use the same 1080/60 HD video standard. The only thing you will run into is having the standard DVD playing capability locked to Region 1 or Region 4 respectively, in which case you would want to make sure there is a region unlock code or firmware hack for whichever model you buy.

As far as "multi-system" goes, the only reason you would need a multi-system player is if you want to watch PAL DVDs from Argentina, England or somewhere like that. Brazil DVDs are all recorded in NTSC.

From what I've found, the US and Brazil are in the same BluRay region (Region A) so players/discs should be interchangeable. Both countries use the same 1080/60 HD video standard.

I've read the same thing although I haven't tested it. My BluRay player is in a US laptop. For the DVDs, have a US player and a Brazilian player. Both work fine with the NTSC TV. In a primarily 110v/127v area, but we can also get 220V when needed.

As noted above, a multi-region TV or DVD player is primarily of benefit to the visitor or resident from Europe. Since DVD's are now in the discussion, some helpful information:

DVD:

The technology is evolving and changing. 2001 one could barely find a Flatscreen Plasma for under R$ 15,000 (sometimes much more) from the best stores in Brasil. My wife and I know as we looked in Sampa for weeks. All assembled somewhere out of the country. No LCD, or LED available. DVD players were similarly limited.

Today, Manaus is the electronics assembly point for major electronics domestically. FOXCOMM (Apple ) is starting there. Your IPAD 3 or 4 may be born in Manaus someday.

As stated above, Standard DVD (SD DVD ) in Brasil is a different region than in North America or Europe. Thus if you purchase a SD DVD in Brasil, it may not play in North America, and vice-versa. Until recently, standard definition DVD was the constant in Brasil.

We have a number of multi-region players for guests primarily from Europe. All SD DVD players.

BlueRay, a relatively new recording/playing standard in Brasil, should allow both Brasil and North American BR discs to play on the same player. Much more expensive, but currently the hot item to have.

Solution:
A new laptop, with a BR DVD player can be a simple, quick solution for the traveller. I tried this in May with my wife's Sony Vaio, which is equipped with a BR DVD. It worked very well. Unless you are taking a player as a gift for your relatives or friends, in which case an LCD and a BR DVD player would make you the unquestioned Diplomat for this Year in Brasil.

However, consider the current state of technology. We are actually getting rid of most of our players next year.
Reason ?
1. There is already more than enough " content " available on cable in Brasil, with the exception of a rather disappointing, dubbed, old-school library from Netflix.
2. Same with SAT TV.
3. Movies downloaded onto flashdrives, or memory cards work very well, take up miniscule space, and leave with the guest. My 40g LaCie flashdrive in the shape of a house key, holds many, many of my favourite films- Fernandel to Fellini. Other than a connecting cable to the flatscreen, there is nothing to maintain. Some new flatscreens come with a USB slot.

However this brings up the point of enjoying beautiful Brasil, and to us, this is not acheived sitting 24x7 in front of a screen. My distingushed theory on The Mechanics of Flatscreen Physiology is the larger the screen, the larger the butt, and gut.

So take and install your flatscreen, and then immediately get out and meet people, go to concerts, take fotos, walk, swim, sun, have fun, and recreate. Va embora !

The original shipping case and padding did not look like it would handle the long flight. I took the flatscreen out, and repackaged it. We used spray can foam insulation by covering and sealing the flatscreen with plastic, and then spraying the foam over it. The foam was then covered again in plastic wrap.


Thanks for sharing the packing technique..... ^ :cool:

My pleasure.

Please remember that the foam insulation expands, so try it out first as a test patch. I would suggest to do it also in a cold area.

We did this again with a Bang & Olufsen Beosound 1. Despite the looks, the front alu. grille (which also serves as an antennae) is a well made but fragile affair to protect on a Trans-Atlantic flight. It continues to work there today as a stereo, laptop and MP3 amplifier, and Home Theatre sound system, despite it's age.

That unit, 4 additional coloured grilles, Beo 4 remotes, and other items all travelled again to Brasil in the same Rimowa Silver Integral case. It was also x-rayed by Alfandega (Customs) with no tax fees, as it is for personal use by a legal resident.

Just ensure that it is described that way, if asked by an Inspector.

One point that needs to be made is not to travel with an empty alu or polycarbonate case as checked bags. It can actually be stuck or fall in the airport conveyor system, due to the light weight. The Rimowa Silver Integral case therefore returns home full of ballast, also as a service to those loading the aircraft hold area. Ballast usually consisting of well-wrapped Yipioca bottles and Santa Clara Coffee beans as padding.

I decided to use the original box to save money, but I am fortifying it. First of all, I went to Home Depot and found a sheet of unbreakable recycled plastic wall paneling that is really thin, yet flexible and totally puncture-proof. I then cut pieces to line the inside of the cardboard box and glued them to the cardboard with spray adhesive. Next, I glued some additional cardboard to the bottom of the box. I then put the TV back in the box and cut styrofoam sheets to provide 1 1/4" of protection at the back and the front and side, in addition to the existing styrofoam supports on the bottom and top. I then taped all the box edges/seams, and I am going to use spray adhesive to glue additional pieces of cardboard on all sides. Then I will use several black plastic box straps to secure the two TV boxes together, and will shrink-wrap them on top of that. The two screens will be facing each other which will protect them from outside damage. The final package will be about 77 inches and will weigh about 58-59 pounds which will only require one oversize luggage fee. I think I'll be more worried about them getting stolen by baggage handlers than getting damaged.

Good Morning.

Sounds pretty well packaged.

Unlike the thief with the stolen IPAD, your TV would be pretty hard for someone to hide it down the front of his trousers.

I have carried nearly everything into Brazil through GIG with never once a problem. I always encase the original packaging with some form of cheap luggage surrounding and use expanding foam insulation. I have never had even a question. A 50" plasma Samsung TV I did declare but was just waved through.
The immigration and customs processes are totally independent and you almost never show a passport to Customs.

Only by bringing in many bags and lots of TV's is their a potential problem from what I have seen. I am guessing about that because neither Mrs jb nor I have ever been stopped.

I once brought a large hanging lamp in at GIG in its original packaging and was asked what was in the box when going through the green line. Responded exactly what it shows on the label, a lamp, then was waived through.

Swissaire, thanks for your very interesting posts, particularly on DVDs.

I couldn't agree more that there is more than enough "content" available on cable in Brazil, and that the Netflix library is more than a little deficient, as is, of course, Blockbuster's on-line offerings.

Along these very lines, what I am trying to do is to actually substitute my Standard DVD player here - I live in Brazil - with a Standard DVR that would enable me to record programming for viewing at a more convenient time. Like many on this board, I am a NET cable subscriber, which despite having innumerable junk movie channels has just three of interest: Telecine Cult and TCM, which, I find together offer interesting "classic" movies every week; and Canal Brasil, which is fantastic and offers varied programming including vintage Brazil films. I would like to view on a locally purchased LG plasma that I purchased about five years ago, attached to my Yamaha receiver.

Here in Rio most of the eletronic shops do not carry DVR's and are therefore not very knowledgeable or helpful. I would be willing to buy from a reliable local online site as long as the models would be compatible with NET. I would be storing most content on disks but am sure that it would pay to have one with some minimum amount of storage space on a HDD. I guess I would also need to know that a certain typle of cable is compatible between the device and the plasma/receiver, right. As you can see, I am not all much technology-proficient but any guidance you could provide would be greatly appreciated.

Sorry, in the last post I should have mentioned that if I can't find a decent local Standard DVR player, I will have to bring one in my carry-on on my next trip to NYC.

As stated in this thread, I recognize that all standard DVD players, both in Brazil and in the USA are NTSC, and they both have the same HDMI connectors. I also recognize that the player should be unlocked as Brazil DVDs are Region 4 coded, while the USA is Region 1. Is there anything else that would need to be compatible in order for a USA Standard DVR to work here and record Brazil cable?

As stated I certainly don't rule out buying a decent one here so any recommendations for a Brazil Standard DVR to work here, and if so, any preferred models and /or reputable sites for purchase would be appreciated. That is because, believe it or not, none of the major electronics chains in Rio actually carry.

Boa Noite Marcos !

I wish I were in Rio right now. It is very cold and beginning to snow outside here.

Your DVD plan:

As I understand, you have a new LG Plasma ( excelente-parabens ! ) and find a suitable SD DVD player that will work with your plasma screen in Rio, yes ?

That I believe would be a muiti-region DVD player, which today is done automatically rather than switching back and forth between regional code selections. Having logged more than a few foot miles in the past with my wife, also looking for one in Rio, Sampa, and Fortaleza, I agree that it is best that you bring one with you from outside Brasil.

In Europe and in North America and Asia, these units (SD DVD player) are usually found at specialty electronic stores, or online.

Now to enhance your entertainment possibilities, you are also interested in recording programming by cable. An interesting question propostion arises here, as to the ability to do both with the same machine.

I have seen one machine in the past (a Panasonic) that allowed that, and there were many complicated steps to get to the recording functon to work properly. I will do some checking for you on the latest machines that may now be available, if you like. Other FT members here my have good suggestions to offer you.

Are you travelling to North America or Europe to make your purchase ? That would be helpful information.

On the subject of HD recorders I am only familar with using a Bang & Olufsen model, a somewhat expensive option. That brings us to a somewhat easier option of having:
1.) Two machines ( an HD recorder and a muti-region SD DVD player ). It would be more easy to find two that are HDMI, than an all-in-one machine as desired.

A simple and better suggestion:

Our computer does all this for us here, and more. It is a Gateway Home Theatre PC, model SX 2800 series, and at one-third the size of a PC, it appears to be normal a VCR player when resting on it's side.

It records programming, and burns or converts back to DVD (using programs like AVS 4 and Nero). It also serves as a prime computer for streaming, surfing, music ( meda player, media centre or B&O beoplayer ), internet radio ( 17,000 staions using Beoplayer ), DVD stereo sound, and allows PC work in a more comfortable living room environment. 8 HDMI slots. for example, I can pull up most radio stations in Brasil with a push of a button, and pipe the music in through the speakers anywhere in the house.

I use a Logitech Edge BT keyboard, and gyroscopic mouse with Media Centre to control it from 3-5 M away from the screen. No need to be hardwired.

Given the price considerations, a 1T HD version is comparable to a muti-region DVD player alone. That is a lot of music and video to store and enjoy, and would provide you with more capabilities for the future. The Gateway SX computers are sold at most electronic stores anywhere.

Aguardo seus comentarios !

Muito obrigado mesmo Swissaire!

To do your well thought out post justice, I will re-read it a few more times and do some more research on the possibilities you outline so as to place in focus exactly what I want to do. Since I won't be traveling to NYC for a few more months I will try and first pound the pavement here as you did a few years back with your search for a SD-DVD. After that I may well revert with further questions if you don't mind. But your post has already detailed possibilities.

Then I will share what I eventually do here so that others can see what worked, or didn't work, for me as I think this seemingly very simple task - complicated once again by the good old custo brasil - is of general interest for those wanting to set up a home theater system here.

Bom Dia !

Sounds like you have a good plan. I would rather pound the pavement with Havaiianas in Rio, than icy, wet dress shoes in NYC , anyday.

I should also mention a rather important point regarding the HTPC. Using the Gateway SX model with WIndows 7 OS, all region DVD's play in the DVD drive, without the need for a multi-region DVD player. HD DVDs from Brasil, and North America play just as good as our local region DVD's do with this PC.

This eliminates the need for a single DVD player. You just use the HTPC for DVDs. This feature of this computer was not the case before using XP as the OS. If you decide to go this route, then consider the future and make sure that your PC DVD drive burns BR and double-layer DVD's.