A few years ago, a friend from Canada purchased a beautiful Fischer
Ampico upright in the United States.  The ivory keys were in perfect
condition, however we were both aware of the horror stories of
border crossings, and incidents of ivory piano keys being removed
or destroyed.  We both researched rules and regulations, but could
not find a way out.

Sadly, before the piano was transported, we replaced the ivory with
synthetic material to avoid any conflicts at the border.  My friend
retained all of the paper work for the new key top replacements and
was well prepared.

The day the piano was transported to Canada, the border agent asked
what was being transported.  My friend answered, "An old piano."

Without examining the piano, the agent said, "Go ahead." ...

Bruce Clark