The restrictions on RF transmitters can be simply understandable, but not every warranty claim necessitates the need to put the radio in cross-border transit. This shipping block affects things like a replacement battery cover / back panel. There's apparently no way for Nokia USA reps to override the governing shipping restriction to allow for device parts to flow north from the warehouse.

Escalating matters to the Nokia USA call centre supervisor / manager actually made things worse to my surprise. This person was much more skilled and versed in reiterating policy and protocol than the front line staff (who actually suggested that I try eBay for parts)! I was quite stubbornly told that Nokia doesn't have to honour the warranty for any device that is not purchased directly from Nokia!

Nonetheless they did agree to ship to a US address of my choice. Then I was given a line about how UPS will not release the package to anyone but the warranty claimant. So I called back to get some indication on the the shipping status. Apparently tracking numbers are sent to the email address of the specific Nokia rep who processes the claim. My 5-7 day delivery period will soon be up... hopefully the royal run-around will end on a positive.