Insurance for Shipping Artwork

Shipping artwork is a delicate process that demands careful handling and thoughtful preparation, but one of the most important aspects is often overlooked: insurance for shipping artwork. Whether you’re a gallery owner, an artist shipping a piece to a collector, or a museum moving a valuable exhibit, protecting your artwork during transit should be a top priority. The potential risks of damage, theft, or loss are high, and without the proper insurance, you could face significant financial setbacks.

Why Do You Need Insurance for Shipping Artwork?

Shipping artwork can be a nerve-wracking experience and is probably best left to a professional art shipping company, especially when transporting valuable pieces. Even with careful packing, the risk of accidents or damage during transit is always present. There are several reasons why insurance is essential when shipping artwork:

• Theft: High-value artwork can be a target for theft, particularly if it’s a rare or famous piece. Without proper insurance, recovering the full value of the artwork could be impossible.

• Damage: Accidents during transit, such as mishandling, unattended vehicles, or even inadequate packaging, can lead to physical damage. This can be devastating, especially for unique or irreplaceable artworks.

• Loss: Artwork may be misplaced or lost by shipping carriers. Without insurance, you’ll be left without compensation for the value of your lost items.

• Protection for High-Value Artworks: Many artworks are one-of-a-kind, and their value may not be easily replaceable. Insurance ensures that if something happens, you’re covered for the replacement or restoration costs.

What Does Art in Transit Insurance Usually Cover?

If you’re shipping artwork with significant value, it’s crucial to invest in specialised art insurance. These policies are designed specifically for artworks, considering the unique risks associated with their transportation. Some key features of specialised art insurance include:

• All risk: This includes coverage for a variety of unforeseen events, such as accidental damage, theft, or natural disasters.

• Agreed Value: You can have a pre-agreed value for your artwork, so in the event of damage or loss, you’ll receive compensation based on that value, not its market price at the time of the incident. Anthony Wakefield & Company do not usually grant this unless they have an independent valuation from an expert.

• Worldwide Coverage: Many policies offer worldwide coverage, but this does not apply to sanctioned countries, such as Russia and North Korea.

Transit2insure.com is a good place to start if you are looking for art shipping insurance. Transit2insure offers transit insurance for individuals/companies that are commercial enterprises involved in either the antiques trade, fine arts, watchmaking or watch/clock repairs.

If you are a non-commercial client, speak to Anthony Wakefield & Company about their Fine Art and Collectibles insurance policies. With over 40 years of experience in Fine Art and Antiques insurance, you are in safe hands.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Artwork Shipping Insurance

Not all insurance policies are created equal, so it’s essential to evaluate the following factors when selecting a policy:

1.Value of the Artwork

The value of the artwork you are shipping should be the primary factor in determining the amount of insurance you need. If your artwork is worth thousands or even millions of pounds, you’ll need a policy that covers the full replacement value. It’s important to assess your artwork’s current market value, as this will guide your insurance decision. A professional valuation is advisable.

2. Type of Artwork

The medium of the artwork—whether it’s a painting, sculpture, or photograph—can impact the shipping and insurance policy. Different types of artwork may require special handling, packaging, and coverage:

• Paintings and Prints: Often delicate and sensitive to temperature and humidity changes.
• Sculptures: Heavy, awkwardly shaped, and often require specialised packaging and handling.
• Photography: Vulnerable to creases or exposure to moisture.

Some insurance policies will cover these specific requirements, and you may need to work closely with your insurer to ensure that all these nuances are considered.

3. Destination

The destination plays a role in how your artwork will be handled and the type of coverage required. International shipments are riskier than domestic ones, and some countries have higher rates of theft or political instability. Worldwide coverage is ideal for shipping artwork abroad.

4. Shipping Method

Whether you’re using air freight, sea freight, or ground transportation, the shipping method will influence the insurance policy. Air freight, for instance, tends to be faster but can expose artwork to turbulence, whereas sea freight involves longer transit times and may expose the artwork to extreme weather conditions.

5. Exclusions and Deductibles

Before purchasing insurance, be sure to read the fine print. Some policies might exclude certain types of damage or have high deductibles (an amount of money that you are responsible for paying toward an insured loss). Make sure the exclusions are clear and that the deductible is manageable for you.

Tips for Minimising Risk When Shipping Artwork

In addition to obtaining the right insurance, there are several steps you can take to minimise the risk of damage, loss, or theft during shipping:

1. Proper Packing

Proper packing is one of the most effective ways to protect your artwork during transit. Use acid-free materials, custom crating, and professional-grade bubble wrap to cushion the artwork. Ensure the box or crate is sturdy and fits snugly around the piece to prevent movement.

2. Use a Trusted Shipping Carrier

Choosing the right shipping carrier is essential. Look for a carrier with experience handling fine art, and consider opting for white-glove shipping services that specialise in fragile items. These services often include extra layers of protection, such as climate-controlled environments and careful handling by experienced professionals.

3. Track the Shipment

Make use of tracking services to monitor your shipment in real-time. This ensures that you know exactly where your artwork is during the journey and can take immediate action if there are any delays or issues.

4. Document the Condition

Before shipping your artwork, take detailed photographs of the piece from multiple angles. This can serve as proof of the item’s condition before it’s shipped, which is critical for submitting an insurance claim in the event of damage.

Conclusion: Insurance for Shipping Artwork Is Essential

Shipping artwork requires careful planning and attention to detail. The right insurance policy ensures that your pieces are protected from the unexpected—whether it’s damage, theft, or loss—giving you the peace of mind to focus on the transaction itself. When selecting your insurance, consider factors like the artwork’s value, destination, and shipping method, and always opt for specialised artwork insurance if your pieces are valuable or delicate.

By investing in the appropriate coverage, you’re not just protecting your investment—you’re also ensuring that your art will safely arrive at its destination, ready to be admired for years to come. Contact Anthony Wakefield & Company to discuss what art shipping insurance is right for your situation, or visit Transit2insure.com if you are a commercial enterprise.