Shipping and Returns FAQs

This guide answers shipping questions for works purchased through Buy Now and Make Offer and Artsy Auctions

How much is shipping for works available for Buy Now or Make Offer?

For works available for Buy Now or Make Offer, shipping fees will be listed above the checkout buttons on the right side of the artwork page. The shipping fee will be automatically added to your order or offer during checkout.

Will I need to sign for my package upon delivery?

Your tracking number will generally indicate whether a signature is required to receive a shipment. If you’re worried about a shipment, we recommend shipping to a location where someone can receive your work, like an office building.

How will shipping work? How much will it cost?

Most of our sellers are able to assist with organizing shipping, as they’re experts at packing and shipping their works. The seller can provide a price quote and lead time. 

When asking for a quote, keep in mind that your location, the size of the work, and packing materials will all contribute to the final cost. We recommend requesting a shipment with tracking and insurance for all shipments in the rare case that something goes wrong. If the artwork is being shipped internationally, we also recommend asking whether customs fees are included to avoid any surprises down the road.

I won a lot at auction. How does shipping work?

If you win, we’ll connect you with the seller so you can arrange shipping directly. Generally, buyers will choose between a common carrier (like FedEx) and a specialist fine art shipper. Shipping costs will be your responsibility.

You don’t ship to my country. What should I do?

If a gallery doesn’t have a shipping fee listed for your location, get in touch with our team at [email protected]. We’ll get a quote for you.

Can I return a work?

If you’re messaging a gallery directly, ask about the return policy before buying. Since shipping art can be a delicate process, each gallery has its own process for returns.

For final sale purchases, make sure you do your research in advance. In particular, we recommend asking about the artwork’s condition and getting high-resolution images of the work in different lighting to get the best sense of color, texture, and feel.

Works purchased via inquiry are not eligible for returns through Artsy. Returns would need to be organized with the gallery directly on works purchased with an inquiry. 

Where can I check the status of my order?

You will receive an email from [email protected] whenever there is an update to your order. The shipping confirmation email will include tracking information so that you may follow along with your shipment. 

You can review the current status of your order under the Order History tab located under the Account icon in the top right corner of www.artsy.net. 

Can I cancel or return a work I ordered if I change my mind?

In most cases, Buy Now and Make Offer sales are final. However, in the rare case that the artwork was not accurately described prior to purchase or if it was damaged when shipped by the gallery, please contact us at [email protected].

For more details, read our Buyer Protection.

Can I pick up the work in person?

Some works are available for local pickup. If this is possible, you’ll see an “Arrange for pickup” option on the shipping page of checkout. You can check the work’s location on the artwork page above the checkout button or under the artwork title during checkout.

If you opt to pick up your work, our team will contact you once your order is confirmed to coordinate timing and logistics.

My offer was declined, but I’m still interested in the work. What should I do?

If your offer is declined, we’ll tell you why in the email.

If the gallery found your offer too low, reopen negotiations by clicking “Make offer” again, or buy it outright by clicking the “Buy now” button (if available). Offers within 10% of the asking price have the best chance of being accepted.

If the work is no longer available or the gallery can’t ship to your location, contact our team at [email protected]. We’ll help you find a similar work.