Expert Customs Solutions for Importing and Exporting Art

We operate our own Customs Warehouse facility and a Temporary Admission (TA) Account, which can significantly benefit our clients by delaying the payment of Import VAT. Our capabilities also include:

• Customs Warehousing: Ideal for artworks that require temporary storage before re-export, offering a duty-suspension arrangement.
• Inward Processing Relief (IPR) for Art Imports: Perfect for art pieces that need restoration or repair, allowing suspension of duties during the process.
• Galleries and Museums Relief: Special provisions for items that enhance our cultural heritage, ensuring they receive the care and consideration they deserve.

Our Central London facility provides swift customs clearance for Road imports and exports, saving our clients valuable time and fees. Whether managing import duties for art exports or providing secure customs clearance for valuable art, our team is equipped to handle all aspects of international art shipping/logistics.

We offer customised advice on various aspects of art customs, including VAT calculations, commodity codes, and customs procedure codes. Our expertise in art customs import/export assistance ensures that your artworks move across borders seamlessly and without unexpected costs or legal challenges.

With Constantine, you can trust that your international exhibitions and valuable art transports are in safe hands. We facilitate the art shipping process and provide strategic insights into Temporary Admission for art pieces, Inward Processing Relief for art imports, and comprehensive management of all related paperwork and regulations.

Let Constantine be your trusted partner in navigating the complexities of art customs import/export. Contact us for more information and to discuss how we can assist with your specific needs.

1. What customs support do you provide for importing and exporting art?
We manage the end-to-end customs process for artworks, including documentation, clearance planning, and practical support for international exhibitions and cross-border moves, with a team that works closely with UK and EU customs contacts.

2. What does AEO status mean for clients?
AEO (Authorised Economic Operator) is a recognised customs accreditation linked to strong security and compliant procedures. In practice, it can help reduce disruption at the border because AEO holders may be treated as lower risk and can receive priority treatment for customs controls.

3. Can you help reduce cashflow pressure on import VAT for artworks?
Yes. We operate our own Customs Warehouse facility and a Temporary Admission (TA) account, which can help delay paying import VAT depending on the route and intent of the move.

4. What is Temporary Admission, and when is it useful for art?
Temporary Admission is designed for goods coming into the UK for a limited period before being re-exported, such as exhibition loans. In many cases, it allows goods to remain in the UK for up to 24 months without paying import duty or VAT (subject to the authorisation and conditions).

5. What if an artwork is imported for conservation, restoration, or repair?
That’s where Inward Processing Relief (IPR) can be relevant. If authorised, inward processing can suspend customs duty and import VAT on goods imported for processing or repair, provided they are then re-exported under the rules of the procedure.