Domestic art shipments require careful planning and execution in terms of logistics. However, when you are in need of sending artwork overseas, this process goes far beyond logistics. It requires more extensive risk management and organization with customs law, cross-border insurance, and handover protocols in mind. Here is a professional guide to arranging an international shipment.
Shipment Planning Starts Earlier Than You Think
You might be surprised to learn that sending artwork overseas should be planned in advance, as early as possible. It is vitally important to schedule all tasks without time pressure, especially if you have to deliver art for a precisely timed art fair or exhibition.
At this stage, you need to assess the artwork’s profile and determine its surface sensitivity and structural stability. Fragility, age, weight, dimensions, and the art object’s medium are important for further packing and insurance procedures. The destination environment should also be evaluated in terms of climate and humidity, so that your packing solutions match the destination-specific risk factors. A vital dimension of international shipping planning is the analysis of customs reliability, political climate, and other criteria that may cause unexpected delays.
Conservation-Grade Packing and Custom Crating Are a Must
International art deliveries never rely on standard packing solutions. Your art object should be packaged with a custom-tailored strategy, archival-grade materials, and an experienced team of art handlers. Experts will create a condition report before packing so that you have comprehensive, photo-documented proof of the artwork’s initial condition.
Museum-grade packaging usually includes acid-free, archival-quality wrapping paper, art plastic, foam inserts, kraft bubble, cardboard, and a custom art crate that perfectly fits your artwork. Mixed-media art and items that contain organic materials should be treated with extra care at the packing stage because they quickly degrade in the wrong environmental conditions.
Documentation and Customs Procedures for Sending Artwork Overseas
A full documentation package accompanying the artwork during cross-border delivery is your sound investment in a smooth shipping process. Customs officers can easily block its entry if some documents are wrongly formulated or missing, so make sure you have all the needed papers in advance.
Insurance Arrangements for International Shipments
Insurance is at the heart of art safety. It also protects the owner’s financial interests and codifies the liability for any damage incurred during transportation. In other words, international insurance is a must for cross-border art shipping.
Once you gather all these tips into a single international shipping preparation pipeline, you’re sure to enjoy peace of mind and keep all aspects under control.