I speak with true authority on the topic....getting
anything other than a standard suitcase and personal effects through customs, is a logistical nightmare.... and I don't care how much money you got or whether you're Alan Johnson, the Sheik, George Bush, Barack Obama, Bob Frey or Jennifer Anniston!!!
Chris - I assume you are referring to shipping AJ's teams to Qatar to race. I have some experience in international shipping and the customs issue is usually the receiving country looking for a way to generate revenue.
Al-Anabi and Shiekh Al Thani have been transporting Pro Mod cars back and forth with little apparent problems. The Pro Mod cars will now stay in Qatar for the 2009 season and Al-Anabi teams will reportedly have new cars to race in the US next year. I seriously doubt that Qatar custom officials will question what His Highness is shipping into his country on a cargo plane that he (or another Sheikh or Prince) probably owns. JMHO