This article was very generously contributed by artist Simon Kirk from his own blog here. Shipping oversize artwork is a daunting task that many artists face, and can be terrifying first time around! Simon shares his experiences and advice (don’t be surprised if, like me, you find yourself printing this one out to put on your studio wall!)
‘Santo Coba’ was completed recently, and sold quickly to a buyer overseas. It is from a new larger series of work I have started. The dimensions are 60 x 40 inches, it is on half inch board with a sturdy 2 x 1 inch frame on the back. It weighs close to 20kg.
My immediate problem was to find a courier. Most general couriers only take packages up to 1.5 metres – mine was 1.6 metres. Other couriers I found would only transport packages of this size and weight from business to business. I eventually found ParcelHero – www.parcelhero.com The process was standard and straightforward, so far so good! (The artwork was collected on time and delivered safely and within the promised timescale. I’ll be using ParcelHero again.)
The other problem was safely transporting the work. I decided the only feasible option was to make a custom box. I am sure this was also the most cost effective way too, both in terms of packaging but also insurance. Major couriers do not officially accept artwork for shipping, due to mechanical handling and sorting, ‘multiple trans-shipment points’ on and off of vehicles etc etc. Anecdotal evidence from artists across the internet suggests to me that making a claim would be extremely difficult, so durable solid packing is to avoid any unnecessary damage. This blog post also serves as some proof the artwork has been packed properly and securely.
This PDF on damages and claims is extremely useful: CLAIMS FOR DAMAGED WORK: Artist Checklist
This is also a very handy guide: Exporting Your Products – First Learn The Terminology
(These are intended to reduce or remove altogether uncertainties arising from different interpretation of the rules in different countries. As such they are regularly incorporated into sales contract worldwide.)
Remember to clarify who is paying “CIF” before shipping (Cost, Insurance and Freight to Named Port of Destination).
Usually the seller will pay cost, insurance and freight to named port of destination and the buyer pays the import duty to release the parcel into the country (this is a percentage of the afore mentioned CIF expenses).
Check the duty charges here:
www.dutycalculator.com
