Remote contractor finished their 8 month project and moved to Japan for personal reasons.They still have our MacBook Pro and external monitor.

Tried to arrange return shipping but international electronics shipping is apparently a nightmare. FedEx wants $400 and said there’s “high probability” it gets stuck in customs.

Local shipping companies in Japan require business licenses and import/export documentation we don’t have.

The equipment is worth maybe $2000 used but recovery costs are approaching $800. Starting to think we should just write it off and buy new equipment.

How do other small businesses handle internationaI equipment recovery?This seems like a common problem but I can’t find good solutions anywhere.

Considering adding equipment deposit clauses to future contracts but that seems like it would scare away good contractors.