Best Practices: Shipping Internationally with ARTA

Shipping high-value goods internationally is complicated: there are multiple service providers involved, and every country has their own import and export requirements in addition to duties and taxes that must be paid.

ARTA is proud to make shipping internationally as easy as possible for our clients. Our team has decades of experience in international logistics. We have shipped to over 55 countries and we are proud to utilize that expertise on behalf of our clients. We find the most cost-effective rates and assist with all documentation.

So how exactly does an international shipment work once you book with ARTA? What information is needed so that there are no delays in the process? We’ve created a checklist as well as pro tips to ensure your booking is quick and efficient.

Information needed for export:

1) Contact details for collection  

You’ll want to have the address, and contact’s name, phone number and email at the ready.

Pro tip: It’s even better when you can supply additional details about the building’s accessibility, such as how the entrance is set up or elevator details, whether the building needs a Certificate of Insurance, and the building management’s contact. (We will eventually need this info for delivery too!)

2) A commercial invoice or proforma invoice

Pro tip: This invoice details the work’s origin, destination, value, and materials. 

3) Crate information

Pro tip: All goods shipping internationally require crating, and those crates must meet certain specifications. The crate must have skids, an ISPM-15 stamp (which shows that the wood is heat treated, and must be less than 116” tall and 130” long in order to fit on a plane). 

 

Information needed for Import:

Imports add a level of complexity, as every country requires varying information.

1) Power of Attorney

Pro tip: In the U.S., you need to have a power of attorney filled out with a valid U.S.-based EIN / Tax ID number or SSN number. An ARTA representative will send the power of attorney to the client to fill out and sign. If you do not have a U.S.-based tax ID number, don’t worry! The ARTA team can help you find other options.

2) Contact information for whomever is paying local duties and taxes

Pro tip: The shipper requires this information; and a delay of receipt could hold up customs clearance and airport collection. To ensure your pieces don’t get stuck sitting at the airport, an ARTA representative will serve as your liaison, gathering this information to share with the shipper and expediting payment.

3) Contact details for delivery

Again, you’ll want to have the contact’s name, email, and phone number confirmed at the onset.

Pro tip: As for collection, It’s even better when you can supply additional details about the building’s accessibility, such as how the entrance is set up or elevator details, whether the building needs a Certificate of Insurance, and the building management’s contact.

And you should always know…shipping internationally isn’t black and white.

Certain countries will require additional documentation for import / export, depending on their customs laws and the commodity that you are shipping. It is always best to consult with your ARTA representative so that all necessary information is in order. Your ARTA rep is also there to discuss and questions or concerns you may have.

 

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About ARTA

We provide end-to-end logistics solutions for merchants and marketplaces worldwide.

We’re continuously evolving our e-commerce infrastructure for the global collectibles industry through automated transaction, fulfillment, and post-purchase technology.

ARTA’s software provides instant shipping and handling quotes for any item type, regardless of size, material, or price point. Our API automates shipping and fulfillment for high-value items, providing a frictionless purchasing experience for our clients’ buyers.