How to Import Antiques

Antiques come in many sizes and shapes, and the cost of shipping will vary, too.

Antiques come in many shapes and sizes, from chandeliers to rugs, paintings, vases, furniture and architectural elements like fireplaces. They also come from different places in the world. No matter what country they are located in, you can still get them by importing them. All steps of importation must be followed, though, in order to legally import the antiques and not be fined for unpaid customs fees.

Instructions

1. Appraise the antiques that you are importing. You will need this value in order to assess the customs fees for the antiques and the amount of insurance you will need.

2. Contact the dealer or individual you are purchasing the antiques from and tell him the value that you have assessed for the antiques. He will declare this on the customs form that will be attached to your package in the shipping process. Also tell him you want the package to be insured for the appraised value so you will be compensated if the antiques are damaged in transit. This insurance is through the shipping company.

3. Pay the shipping fees, insurance fees and customs charges to the dealer, who will then pay them in the country that you are importing them from. The dealer or individual selling them will inform you of these charges after going to the shipping company and getting an estimate. Once the fees are paid, the antiques will ship to you.

4. Open the clear envelope that is stuck to the package, once you receive it. Inside will be a United States customs form with a bill assessed from the appraised value of the antiques. There also will be instructions for paying these fees online.

5. Pay the customs fees. Then you are free to enjoy your new imported antiques.

References

• HM Revenue & Customs: Imported Antiques