How does international shipping and customs clearance work?

For any works purchased through Artsy Auctions , the buyer is the listed Importer of Record (IOR). An IOR is the individual or the entity in the delivery country who is ensuring that the goods are following the laws and regulations of the importing country. An IOR is typically the owner/purchaser of the goods, or may be a customs broker acting with authorization from the purchaser. 

Once the work is collected, please note that the importer of record (IOR) is responsible for completing any legally required documents for import and any import duties and taxes accessed by customs. The shipping agent or courier will reach out to you directly for any paperwork that needs to be completed prior to the final delivery. 

A Power of Attorney (POA) may be required for import. A POA allows a shipping agent or broker to act on your behalf to clear a work through customs. The shipping carrier will contact you directly should a POA be necessary for import.

Customs clearance is a necessary procedure to import your goods internationally. Customs officials oversee each incoming or outgoing shipment to make sure it is in line with the country’s regulations. Applicable duties and taxes will be determined by customs at the border. The work will be released by customs for final delivery after taxes and duties are paid. 

To clear customs, you may be required to provide personal information such as your SSN, EIN, IRN, TIN, or EORI (dependent on the destination country). The shipping carrier will contact you directly for the required information.

For US import questions, you can reference the Customs & Border Protection website here

For UK import questions, you can reference the UK Government website here

For EU import questions, you can reference the European Commission website here

For HK import questions, you can reference the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department website here

For other destination countries, please refer to your local country’s custom website for more details.

( Import Duties and taxes are not included in the ARTSY invoice or the shipping costs. Import duties and taxes are assessed by customs at the port of entry. ARTSY will not collect payment for customs duties nor be held responsible for any delays due to customs clearance. For more information, please reach out to your local customs broker)