Everyone who needs to ship art internationally knows that this task may turn into an unexpected challenge if some aspects are neglected. In this blog post, we’ve compiled the best tips and recommendations from art shipping experts that we’ve been sharing with you over this year. Use this cheat sheet to plan your next overseas shipment and ensure everything goes smoothly.
Ways to Ship Art Internationally Without Hassle: Your 2024 Guide
As its name suggests, international shipment involves transferring works of art overseas. As such freight moves across the borders, both the sender and the recipient should meet many regulatory requirements in their respective jurisdictions so that the freight isn’t blocked at customs. Besides, overseas shipments usually involve many touchpoints where the works of art change many hands; thus, taking care of art’s safety is key. Here are the most important recommendations to maximize the chance of successful and risk-free transportation.
- Documentation. Your art freight should have all accompanying documentation, from proof of value to insurance policy and photo/video proof of its original condition before shipping. Otherwise, the damage incurred during transportation won’t be eligible for coverage, or the accepting party may refuse the order.
- Insurance. It’s essential to purchase a comprehensive insurance policy for art freight traveling across borders. This step will help you protect your financial interests and sleep well at night, knowing that the insurance company bears full responsibility for your property’s intactness.
- Packaging. Never ignore professional, acid-free, and multi-layer packaging when sending art overseas. In most cases, you will need to use custom wooden crates so that the insurance provider gives the green light for shipping. Small and unstretched works, like art prints, however, can be transported in sturdy cardboard tubes. Whatever you choose, make sure you use only non-adhesive, professional-level materials that won’t stick to the artwork’s surface and damage it.
- Logistics planning. It always makes sense to invest time and effort into planning the transportation route so that your artwork changes as few hands as possible and stays under the thorough control of the shipper. The shorter the transportation route, the better for your property’s safety.
Are you unsure that you’ll be able to ship art internationally without external help? In this case, Fine Art Shippers is ready to provide professional assistance at every stage of the process, from shipping procedures to documentation. Entrust this task to experts and enjoy peace of mind while we’re dealing with your art freight.