Shipping & Insurance
Shipping and Insurance Policy
Shipping and Insurance Policy
- How shipping works
Once a purchase is made via our website, we coordinate collection with the relevant artist and delivery with buyers.
If you are having your artwork framed, we coordinate shipment to a framing hub. We then arrange a second courier once the artwork is framed and ready to ship from there.
- Where we ship to
We provide shipping to many countries all over the world.
Each Service Tier offers varying levels of international coverage.
Service Tiers and geographical regions.
- Standard* and Priority* supports shipments from the US, EU, and other International Parcel Hubs to everywhere in the world.
- White Glove supports shipments- list of countries is available on request.
*Standard and Priority availability is dependent on origin location.
We provide instant quotes for shipments originating from various locations(in the absence of this, please contact us with your shipping address and the artwork you would like to purchase for a shipping quote) and for services to or from countries that are not supported , please get in touch with our team at [email protected]. We’ll get a quote for you.
- Shipping quotes and times
We provide customised, instantaneous shipping quotes at Checkout once you enter your shipping address (Alternatively use the ENQUIRE ABOUT THIS ARTWORK button). Buyers may be required to pay additional shipping fees or taxes for any changes in delivery address after payment.
Shipping quotes are subject to change and Iterarte shall not be liable for any errors or omissions related to such information provided to us or our shipping providers.
Unlike most products, the cost of shipping artwork and delivery lead time vary significantly depending on the distance it is being shipped, the specifics of the artwork itself (including size) and the type of shipping service offered.
Shipping costs will also include the cost of packing materials and/or any additional shipping costs to framers, where applicable. Shipping (and insurance fees (where applicable)) are automatically added to orders.
All our artworks are sent via a tracked and signed for service. Once payment has been received, we will despatch the artwork as soon as possible and usually within 7 days.
Once the work has been shipped, you will receive an email with tracking information, so that you can stay informed about your package’s progress. We recommend consulting the tracking website for the most up-to-date delivery timeline.
- Shipping options
We enable you to select the type of shipping you’d like on a per-artwork basis because the cost of shipping art varies depending on the characteristics of each specific artwork and on the distance it must travel.
We work with seasoned experts in art shipping to offer three levels of shipping at the best rates possible for fine art:
- Standard: Delivers to your door in 5-7 business days once packaged and shipped via a common carrier, pending customs clearance and depending on destination and prompt payment of applicable duties and taxes.
- Priority: Delivers to your door in 3-5 business days once packaged and shipped via a common carrier, pending customs clearance and depending on destination and prompt payment of applicable duties and taxes.
- White Glove*: Room-of-choice delivery handled via trained technicians with specialised packaging and climate-controlled transportation. Recommended for high-value works or to countries where our other services do not operate. Delivery timing variable.
*White Glove Shipping is a high-touch option handled by experts who exclusively specialise in fine art shipping. White Glove provides a bespoke service and, therefore, may not be able to reach all our artists and gallery partners within 5 business days. We advise customers to anticipate longer lead times if they select this option.
While we try to provide all three options for all works offered on our website, in some cases, not all of them will be available. This may occur if a common carrier or art shipper does not deliver to your location, or if a work is too large, heavy, or complicated to be shipped by a common carrier.
Please note that we do not offer local pickup (i.e the ability to directly pick orders up from sellers).
- Bespoke shipping
Certain artwork ordered via our website will require bespoke shipping, which will be calculated on a case-by-case basis.
This will be the case for:
- high-value work
- large orders containing more than 1 separate art works.
- artwork from certain locations:
- list of countries available on request
- countries not covered by Arta’s insurance which would require bespoke quotes.
- very large artwork
- 3D artwork.
Where this applies, email us at [email protected] with the details of the artwork you are interested in purchasing and your shipping address. We will then send you shipping options via email.
Once a shipping option is agreed, we will update your account and Orders page, so the artwork and the (agreed) bespoke shipping cost are displayed in full before you proceed to payment.
- Packaging and crating
All our artworks are packaged securely in appropriate packaging. This can vary depending on the type of artwork you have purchased.
Iterarte uses tailored packaging materials and methods based on the means of transport used and the object(s) dimensions, material(s), value(s) and whether the object has been deemed fragile.
Prints and Artworks on Paper
Prints and original artworks on paper are typically packaged and shipped in one of two ways:
- Rolled inside a heavy-duty art tube – artwork is rolled with a sheet of acid-free paper to protect it.
- Flat-packed – artwork is shipped flat, sandwiched between two pieces of cardboard or thin MDF board, normally protected with additional sheets of acid-free paper.
Unstretched Canvases
Unstretched canvases are usually shipped rolled in a heavy-duty art tube. This keeps shipping costs low, particularly when shipping internationally. If you’d like your canvas to arrive with you ready to hang, we can also arrange for it to be stretched.
If an artwork is stretched or framed it will need to be packed in an art crate. We could also ship large works unstretched / unframed rolled in a tube unless you select an option for us to have an artwork stretched and crated. The cost of the art crate or tube varies depending on the individual dimensions of each artwork and will be included in the total cost of shipping at Checkout.
Stretched Canvases and Framed Works
Bulkier artworks, such as stretched canvases and framed artworks, are typically shipped in either a heavy-duty cardboard box or a wooden crate, depending on their destination. Before being placed in either, cardboard corners are placed on the artwork and then wrapped in layers of padding for additional protection in transit.
Delivery
Most of our artworks are shipped directly to you from the artist. If you’re having your artwork framed by us, the iterarte or the artist will ship it to our framing hub. We’ll then arrange a courier once the artwork is framed and ready to ship from there.
As noted in section 3 above, our estimated delivery times are usually between 3-7 working days for unframed orders. However, this timeframe may be extended to 10-14 working days for framed orders. This can vary depending on where in the world the artist is based and where your delivery address is. If you’re working towards a specific deadline, let us know when you place your order and we’ll do our best to deliver on time.
- Damages in transit and shipping insurance
Iterarte and its partners are not responsible for losses or damages that happen in transit. Using the correct equipment and materials can significantly help to protect your items from external damages. Custom fit crates for example can reduce movement within the box during transit, reducing the risk of markings and damage to your art. However, it does not eliminate the risk of damage in its entirety.
Please note that the below insurance and shipping policies at sections 7-10 are stated on the basis of Arta’s policies for the same. For more detail, please visit Arta | Insurance, Arta | Standards and Arta | Terms.
In circumstances where bespoke shipments are made to / from destinations not covered by Arta’s insurance cover, we will be working with other third-party insurance providers. Suitable insurance quotes will be displayed to Buyers at Checkout.
Transit Insurance
In order to add an additional level of security, we include transit insurance on your artwork. Transit insurance is an “all risks” policy built for the transportation of unique and high value objects moved with Iterarte.
An “all risks” policy covers restoration and repair, not just claims for total loss, intending to preserve these one of a kind items. Transit insurance covers the object from the moment Iterarte takes possession through delivery, including any on site services.
Transit insurance does not include coverage for duties and taxes paid to customs. Arta may also decline or cancel insurance based on their terms, conditions, and exclusions which you can access on their website: Arta | Insurance.
In circumstances where bespoke shipments are made to / from destinations not covered by Arta’s insurance cover, we will be working with other third-party insurance providers.
If the use of transit insurance is declined by the buyer, Iterarte’s liability for loss, damage, or non-delivery of objects arranged to be shipped by Arta is limited as described in Arta’s Terms & Conditions to $0.60 per pound, subject to a maximum of $50 per occurrence. (In case where third party insurance is used, liability for loss, damage, or non-delivery of objects will be subject to their terms accordingly).
1.1 Condition inspections
Insurance does not cover pre-existing conditions omitted from object descriptions or objects delivered not as described. Arta can cancel insurance on behalf of the buyer at collection if the object is damaged or unstable and is likely to worsen in transit.
- “Unstable” objects are material or structural conditions that prevent the object from being moved without deterioration.
- All “unstable” and damaged objects will be inspected at collection and/or delivery, photographed and/or noted on shipment documents (such as a Bill of Lading or Proof of Delivery).
- This service may require unpacking and handling objects at either location. Documentation will be immediately provided to the Client.
- Arta will include options for next steps. Shipments will be held pending approval or cancellation.
- Costs for these services are included in shipping costs.
1.2 Lost shipments
Transit insurance can also cover total loss in the event of non-delivery. Loss or non-delivery needs to be reported within seven (7) days of scheduled delivery. Lost shipment investigations can then take at least 30 days to resolve.
Customers are responsible for cooperating with Iterarte, its shippers and/or the applicable insurer’s claims investigation, including but not limited to: surveying the objects after delivery, speaking with facility staff, and confirming with other individuals on site. Iterarte can request proof of these efforts as part of our investigation.
1.3 Filing an insurance claim
Claims should be reported as soon as possible, and in any event, within seven (7) days of delivery. Claims submitted after this time are subject to review. Claims can take 4 to 8 weeks to resolve. During this time there will be investigation, documentation, possibly restoration or disposal, payout processing and potentially a site visit to evaluate the condition of the object.
When submitting a claim, include:
- a description of the issue;
- 3-5 clear in-focus images of the entire object and the condition;
- 2-3 images of the packaging (interior and exterior) – original packing material must be saved to support any required investigation of the claim for loss or damage until Iterarte has coordinated repair, appraisal or disposal; and
- tracking number
Iterarte will submit such documentation to the insurance provider and communicate to the buyer any decision made by the insurance provider. If the insurance provider accepts the claim, we will collect and remit to the buyer any funds due. Please note that Iterarte and/or the insurer reserve the right to decline a claim based on the terms, conditions, and exclusions. To read more, visit Arta | Insurance.
Iterarte is not responsible for negotiating with the insurance provider on the buyer’s behalf, and the buyer accepts that all decisions made by the insurance provider, as communicated to them by Iterarte, are final and binding and cannot be appealed, challenged, or reversed. If you would prefer not to sign for your delivery, you can remove the signature requirement. Please note that if you choose to remove this, Iterate and Arta cannot be held responsible for any loss or damage that may occur once your order has been delivered.
If a total loss is determined, we may request the person in possession of the object(s) to fully destroy the damaged object upon Iterarte’s instruction/specifications and provide the image as proof. Alternatively, Iterarte may schedule transportation to move the object(s) for restoration or disposal.
- Tracking your order
If you choose to have your artwork shipped by a standard carrier, you will receive a tracking number as soon as it’s available. Your tracking number will generally indicate whether a signature is required to receive a shipment. If you are worried about a shipment, we recommend shipping to a location where someone can receive your work, like an office building.
If you choose to have your artwork shipped by a White Glove service, there are no standard tracking numbers, but we will update you when your work has been shipped and when it has been delivered. These updates will also be available on the Orders page of your account. In addition, you should also expect to hear from the art shipper directly either by phone or email, so they can schedule a specific delivery date.
- Taxes and duties
For artworks being shipped internationally, you may need to pay customs and/or import fees in order for the work to be released for delivery. The buyer is responsible for these fees and refusal to pay is not grounds for return.
Customs duties and import fees are not included at Checkout, as they are set by the artwork’s destination country and are charged directly by the country’s customs office. Iterarte is unable to advise on specific custom fees as, in most cases, either the customs office or the courier will be in touch with you if any fees are due. We’ll keep an eye on your tracking too, so we’re able to help with customs if needed and to confirm the value of the work as declared. Iterarte will not collect payment for customs duties nor be held responsible for any delays due to customs clearance.
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). Customs duties and import fees vary from country to country. We’ve included customs details on our most popular delivery destinations below. For other countries, or for more information, you can contact your local customs department directly to find out details specific to your delivery country.
- 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
- When submitting a claim, include:
- a description of the issue;
- 3-5 clear in-focus images of the entire object and the condition;
- 2-3 images of the packaging (interior and exterior) – original packing material must be saved to support any required investigation of the claim for loss or damage until Iterarte has coordinated repair, appraisal or disposal; and
- tracking number
Iterarte will submit such documentation to the insurance provider and communicate to the buyer any decision made by the insurance provider. If the insurance provider accepts the claim, we will collect and remit to the buyer any funds due. Please note that Iterarte and/or the insurer reserve the right to decline a claim based on the terms, conditions, and exclusions. To read more, visit Arta | Insurance.
Iterarte is not responsible for negotiating with the insurance provider on the buyer’s behalf, and the buyer accepts that all decisions made by the insurance provider, as communicated to them by Iterarte, are final and binding and cannot be appealed, challenged, or reversed. If you would prefer not to sign for your delivery, you can remove the signature requirement. Please note that if you choose to remove this, Iterate and Arta cannot be held responsible for any loss or damage that may occur once your order has been delivered.
If a total loss is determined, we may request the person in possession of the object(s) to fully destroy the damaged object upon Iterarte’s instruction/specifications and provide the image as proof. Alternatively, Iterarte may schedule transportation to move the object(s) for restoration or disposal.
- Tracking your order
If you choose to have your artwork shipped by a standard carrier, you will receive a tracking number as soon as it’s available. Your tracking number will generally indicate whether a signature is required to receive a shipment. If you are worried about a shipment, we recommend shipping to a location where someone can receive your work, like an office building.
If you choose to have your artwork shipped by a White Glove service, there are no standard tracking numbers, but we will update you when your work has been shipped and when it has been delivered. These updates will also be available on the Orders page of your account. In addition, you should also expect to hear from the art shipper directly either by phone or email, so they can schedule a specific delivery date.
- Taxes and duties
For artworks being shipped internationally, you may need to pay customs and/or import fees in order for the work to be released for delivery. The buyer is responsible for these fees and refusal to pay is not grounds for return.
Customs duties and import fees are not included at Checkout, as they are set by the artwork’s destination country and are charged directly by the country’s customs office. Iterarte is unable to advise on specific custom fees as, in most cases, either the customs office or the courier will be in touch with you if any fees are due. We’ll keep an eye on your tracking too, so we’re able to help with customs if needed and to confirm the value of the work as declared. Iterarte will not collect payment for customs duties nor be held responsible for any delays due to customs clearance.
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). Customs duties and import fees vary from country to country. We’ve included customs details on our most popular delivery destinations below. For other countries, or for more information, you can contact your local customs department directly to find out details specific to your delivery country.
- 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