For order-related inquiries, you can directly communicate with buyers through our secure
support ticket system. This system allows you to manage conversations, track progress, and
ensure timely responses to your buyers’ questions.

By utilising the support ticket system, you can:

• Maintain clear communication records for each order.
• Track the resolution process for any buyer inquiries.
• Offer a professional and secure communication channel.

Please note: Due to security and privacy reasons, direct contact details for buyers are not
available on the platform. All buyer communication must be facilitated through the support
ticket system.

Commissioned Offers: For commissioned artwork offers, a separate real-time chat feature
is available through the sales dashboard. This chat allows you to clarify details with the
buyer before initiating the project and will automatically create a new support ticket for
further communication.

The cost of international shipping can vary widely based on several factors:

• Shipping Carrier: Different carriers like USPS, FedEx, UPS, and DHL have
  varying rates.
• Package Size and Weight: Larger and heavier packages cost more to ship.
• Destination Country: The cost can differ depending on the distance and the
  destination country’s shipping infrastructure.
• Shipping Speed: Faster shipping options (express or overnight) are more
  expensive than standard or economy shipping.
• Customs and Duties: Additional costs may apply for customs duties, taxes,
  and fees imposed by the destination country.
• Insurance and Tracking: Adding insurance and tracking services can
  increase the overall cost.
• Shipping Method: Options such as air freight, sea freight, and courier
  services have different pricing structures.
• To get an accurate estimate, it’s best to use the shipping calculator tools
  provided on the carriers’ websites by entering the details of your shipment.

While not mandatory, we recommend insuring shipments for:

• High-value items
• Fragile or sensitive artwork
• Long-distance or international shipments
• Items with a high risk of damage or loss

By insuring your shipments, you can ensure a smooth and secure transaction for both you
and the buyer.

To provide tracking information to buyers:

• Obtain tracking number: Get the tracking number from your shipping carrier (e.g.
  USPS, UPS, FedEx).
• Update order status: Log in to your account and update the order status to “Shipped”.
• Enter tracking number and Courier Company: Enter the tracking number in the “Tracking Information” field.
• Notify buyer: The buyer will receive an automated email with the tracking information.

Calculating shipping costs involves several factors that carriers consider. Here’s a
step-by-step guide to help you estimate the shipping costs for your artwork:

1. Determine Package Dimensions and Weight:

• Measure the length, width, and height of the package.
• Weigh the package using a scale.

2. Choose the Shipping Carrier:

• Decide which carrier you will use (e.g., USPS, UPS, FedEx, DHL).

3. Select the Shipping Service:

• Choose the type of service (e.g., standard, express, overnight) based on your delivery
  timeline and budget.

4. Input Destination Details:

• Enter the recipient’s address, including the country, state/province, and postal code.

5. Use Online Shipping Calculators:

• Most carriers have online tools to calculate shipping costs.

6. Consider Additional Costs:

• Insurance: Add the cost of insuring your artwork for its full value.
• Tracking: Include any fees for tracking services if not already included.
• Signature Confirmation: Some carriers offer this for an additional fee.
• Customs Duties and Taxes: For international shipments, consider potential
  customs duties and taxes that may apply upon arrival.

7. Compare Costs:

• Check and compare rates from different carriers to find the most cost-effective option
  for your needs.

8. Consider Packaging Costs:

• Factor in the cost of packaging materials if not provided by the carrier.

9. Account for Handling Fees:

• If applicable, include any handling fees you charge for packaging and preparing the
  shipment.

By following these steps and utilising online shipping calculators, you can accurately
estimate the shipping costs for your artwork and make informed decisions about which
shipping options best meet your needs

Properly packaging artworks for shipping is crucial to ensure they arrive safely at their
destination. Follow these steps to package your artwork securely:
Materials Needed:

1. Acid-free paper or glassine
   Corner protectors (cardboard or foam
2. Bubble wrap
3. Packing tape
4. Cardboard sheets or foam boards
5. Sturdy shipping box or crate
6. Packing peanuts or foam padding
7. “Fragile” labels or stickers

Steps:
1. Clean and Prepare the Workspace

• Ensure your workspace is clean and free of any sharp objects or debris that could
  damage the artwork.

2. Protect the Artwork Surface

• Place the artwork face down on a clean, flat surface.
• Cover the front of the artwork with a layer of acid-free paper or glassine to protect it
  from dust and scratches.

3. Add Corner Protectors

• Attach corner protectors to all four corners of the artwork to prevent damage during
  handling and transit.

4. Wrap the Artwork

• Wrap the entire artwork with bubble wrap. Ensure it is completely covered, with extra
  padding around the corners.
• Secure the bubble wrap with packing tape, ensuring it is tight but not overly
  compressed.

5. Add Additional Protection

• Sandwich the bubble-wrapped artwork between two pieces of cardboard or foam board.
  This provides extra protection against bending or impacts.
• Secure the cardboard or foam boards together with packing tape.

6. Prepare the Shipping Box or Crate

• Choose a shipping box or crate that is slightly larger than the artwork to allow space for
  padding.
• Line the bottom of the box with a layer of packing peanuts or foam padding.

7. Place the Artwork in the Box

• Place the protected artwork in the center of the box.
• Fill any remaining space around the artwork with packing peanuts or foam padding to
  prevent movement during shipping.

8. Seal the Box

• Close the box and seal all edges with packing tape. Ensure the box is securely closed to
  prevent it from opening during transit.

9. Label the Package

• Label the package with the recipient’s address and your return address.
• Attach “Fragile” labels or stickers on all sides of the box to alert handlers to take extra
  care.

10. Insure the Shipment

• Consider insuring the shipment for the value of the artwork to protect against loss or
  damage during transit.

Tips:

If shipping internationally, check customs regulations and ensure all necessary
paperwork is completed.

• Use a reliable courier service that specializes in handling artworks.
• Keep track of the shipment with tracking information provided by the courier.
• Seek help for large/delicate pieces: If you’re unsure about packing a particularly large or delicate piece, consult a professional shipper or framer.

By following these steps, you can help ensure that your artwork is well-protected and
arrives safely at its destination.

Handling international shipping for your artwork involves several steps to ensure
that your package arrives safely and complies with all necessary regulations. Here’s
a detailed guide:

1.  Research International Shipping Regulations:

•  Familiarise yourself with the import regulations of the destination country,
  including restrictions on certain materials and items.
• Check for any specific documentation required for importing artwork.

2. Select a Reliable Shipping Carrier:

• Choose a carrier experienced in international shipping, such as DHL, FedEx,
  UPS, or USPS.
• Consider factors such as delivery times, tracking capabilities, and insurance
  options.

3. Properly Package Your Artwork:

• Use high-quality packaging materials to protect your artwork during transit.
• Wrap the artwork in protective materials such as glassine paper or bubble wrap.
• Use sturdy boxes and consider double-boxing for added protection.
• Include corner protectors to safeguard edges.

4. Prepare Documentation:

• Customs Declaration Form: Accurately complete the required customs
  declaration forms, specifying the contents and value of the package.
• Commercial Invoice: Include a commercial invoice that details the
  contents, value, and purpose of the shipment.
• Certificate of Authenticity: For valuable or original artwork, include a
  certificate of authenticity if applicable.
• Import Licences: Check if the destination country requires any import
  licences or special permits for artwork.

5. Calculate Shipping Costs and Duties:

• Use the carrier’s online shipping calculator to estimate shipping costs based on the
  package’s dimensions, weight, and destination.
• Research and estimate potential customs duties and taxes that the recipient may need
  to pay upon arrival.

6. Purchase Insurance:

• Insure your artwork for its full value to protect against loss or damage during transit.
• Check with the carrier for insurance options and coverage limits.

7. Label the Package Clearly

• Include the recipient’s full address, including country, postal code, and contact number.
• Attach all necessary shipping labels and customs documentation securely to the
  package.

8. Select Tracking and Delivery Confirmation:

• Choose a shipping service that includes tracking and delivery confirmation to monitor
  the shipment’s progress and ensure it reaches its destination.

9. Inform the Recipient:

• Provide the recipient with the tracking number and an estimated delivery date.
• Inform them about any potential customs duties or taxes they may need to pay upon
  receipt.

10. Keep Records:

• Maintain copies of all shipping and customs documentation.
• Keep a record of the tracking number and any communication with the recipient and
  carrier.

By following these steps, you can manage international shipping effectively, ensuring that
your artwork is delivered safely and in compliance with all relevant regulations.

When shipping your artwork, you have the flexibility to choose a courier company that best meets your needs for safe and reliable delivery. While Art.Africa recommends considering reputable options like DHL, FedEx, UPS, TNT, and Aramex for their global reach and reliability, using these specific companies is not mandatory.

However, if you opt for a courier service not listed above, please ensure they provide item tracking to ensure the secure transit and delivery of your artwork. This tracking capability is a requirement to ensure that shipments are traceable and accountable throughout the shipping process.

Setting up shipping for your artwork involves several steps to ensure it arrives
safely and efficiently at its destination. Here’s a comprehensive guide:

1. Choose Shipping Carriers:
   -Research and select reliable shipping carriers (e.g., FedEx, UPS, DHL,
   USPS).
   – Compare rates, delivery times, and services offered by each carrier.
2. Packaging Materials:
   – Obtain high-quality packaging materials, including sturdy boxes, bubble
   wrap, packing peanuts, corner protectors, and tape.- Consider using custom or reinforced boxes for larger or fragile pieces.
3.  Packaging Your Artwork:
   – Protect the artwork with a layer of glassine paper or acid-free tissue paper.
   – Wrap the artwork in bubble wrap for cushioning.
   – Use corner protectors to safeguard edges and corners.
   – Place the wrapped artwork in a sturdy box with sufficient padding to prevent
   movement during transit.
   – Double-boxing (placing the box inside a larger box with additional padding) can
   provide extra protection for fragile items.
4. Shipping Labels and Documentation:
   – Print and attach the shipping label securely to the package.
   – Include a return address and contact information.