Understanding Customs Costs When Ordering Art Internationally

When you order artwork from my studio here in the UK, the price you see on my website is before any import taxes, VAT, or customs duties that may be charged when your parcel arrives in your country.

This guide will help you understand what to expect so there are no surprises.

How It Works

I don’t charge UK VAT on orders shipped outside the UK (exports are “zero-rated”).
Your country’s customs office may charge you import VAT (or GST/sales tax) and, in some cases, customs duty.

These charges are usually collected by the delivery courier (e.g. DHL, UPS, FedEx, Royal Mail/Parcelforce) before they release your parcel.
The amount depends on your country’s tax rate, the value of the artwork, and any shipping costs and can sometimes mean it takes a bit longer to arrive.

EU Countries (France, Germany, Spain, etc.)

VAT is charged on all imported goods, no matter the value.
The standard VAT rate varies by country (between 17% and 27%). For example:

Germany: 19%

France: 20%

Italy: 22%

Spain: 21%

Sweden: 25%

Hungary: 27%

Ireland: 23%

Denmark: 25%

Netherlands: 21%

Switzerland 8.1%

Japan: 10%

Customs duty (tariff): Usually not applied to original artworks if they meet “rules of origin.”

If duty does apply, it’s only charged if the parcel is worth more than €150

Thresholds

In the EU, VAT is charged on all imports, no matter the value.

Customs duty may apply above €150 for many goods — BUT original artworks are exempt, so this does not affect paintings.

 

Example

 

If you buy a painting for £500 + £50 shipping:

France → VAT 20% = £110 added.

Germany → VAT 19% = £104.50 added.

No customs duty in either case.

 

Original artworks are generally duty-free worldwide, but import VAT/GST almost always applies.

Couriers may also add a small clearance fee (around £10–£20).

For exact costs, please check with your local customs office.

United States

The USA does not have VAT. Instead, it charges customs duties plus state sales tax.
Until recently, goods worth under USD 800 were exempt from duty.

From 29 August 2025, all shipments are now assessed for customs duty.
Most artworks fall into low-duty categories, but charges vary depending on classification.
State sales tax (around 2.9% to 7%) may also apply, depending on where you live.

Canada

ST (5%)applies to most imports.
Thresholds:

Goods under CAD 20 may avoid customs duty.
Goods under CAD 40 may avoid GST.
Above these amounts, GST and sometimes provincial sales tax (PST/HST) are collected by the courier.

Australia & New Zealand

Australia: 10% GST applies on most imports, regardless of value.
New Zealand: 15% GST on most imports. Both countries collect GST at customs or through the courier before delivery.

UK (for comparison if you’re ordering into the UK)

Orders under £135: no customs duty, but VAT is collected at point of sale.
Orders over £135: customs duty may apply plus VAT (20%).
Gifts over £39 are subject to VAT.

What This Means for You

1. Expect to pay your local VAT or GST (usually 17–27% in the EU, 5–15% in other countries).
2. Check the de minimis threshold — some countries waive duty or VAT under certain values.
3. Your courier will contact you when the parcel arrives, and you’ll need to pay the charges before delivery.
4. Original artworks often qualify for reduced or no customs duty, but import VAT/sales tax still applies.

Final Note

Every country has its own rules, and these can change. The information above is based on the most up-to-date guidance (as of late 2025), but please check with your local customs authority if you want the exact figure before ordering.

I want my collectors to have a smooth experience — so if you ever have questions about shipping costs, just contact me and I’ll be happy to help.

Best wishes,

Rebecca