It’s no secret that shipping paintings overseas can be more challenging than shipping domestically and requires more preparation. How to avoid getting lost in all the customs regulations, taxes, packaging requirements, and documentation? Read this blog post to get you started.
What to Do First When Shipping Paintings Overseas?
It takes careful planning and attention to detail to prepare for shipping paintings overseas. Here’s a step-by-step guide from the Fine Art Shippers team to help you get started.
1. Research border country regulations
Customs regulations can vary from country to country due to differences in import restrictions and cultural heritage protection laws. It’s important to understand these nuances for both your country and the destination country. There may also be additional taxes and duties that can surprise you, so it’s always better to be prepared in advance.
2. Prepare all necessary documents
A basic set of documents usually includes a customs clearance document, an export invoice, and sometimes a certificate of authenticity or provenance. However, this list may vary depending on the country of destination. That’s why it’s easier to contact a local customs specialist to help you with the customs paperwork.
3. Purchase comprehensive shipping insurance
It’s a good idea to purchase art shipping insurance, especially for valuable paintings, even if the risk of damage or loss is really low. Insurance policies may have exclusions or limitations, so it’s important to review them carefully to understand what is and is not covered. They may also have specific requirements for how the artwork should be packed and shipped, which must be followed to receive full coverage in the event of damage.
4. Properly pack the paintings
When shipping paintings overseas, professionals usually recommend using custom wooden crates. They can protect your painting from rough handling and fluctuations in humidity and temperature much better than soft packing. At Fine Art Shippers, we can build a sturdy wooden crate for international shipping either at our warehouse in Brooklyn, NY, or at your location.
5. Choose a trustworthy carrier
International shipping companies such as FedEx or UPS have recognizable brand images and reasonable prices, but when it comes to shipping paintings overseas, it’s better to choose a reliable shipping carrier with experience in handling delicate and valuable items. Many of them also offer efficient insurance and customs clearance services.
By carefully planning and following these five steps, you can increase the chances of successful and safe overseas shipments of your precious paintings.