As the buyer, you are responsible for verifying that you’re allowed to import an object, as well as for the duties and taxes payable when importing the object. Therefore, you must check if there are any specific rules applicable to the import of an object into your country. This concerns import bans and licences, as well as rules on customs duties, VAT, excise duties and clearance charges.

Goods like textiles, consumer durables, handicrafts and electronics are generally allowed to be imported and exported by all countries, although some countries limit the number of goods of certain categories that may be imported (e.g. for textiles). However, certain types of machinery and equipment, even if it is sold as a collectable, may require an import licence.

Always check with your local customs authorities if in doubt.

Weapons

Import of weapons is always covered by specific licences, so please ensure you are able to import objects sold in the weapons auctions into your country.

Negative List

Most countries maintain a negative list of objects prohibited from import and export, such as protected species or objects of protected cultural heritage. These should be available on your government's website.

This is particularly relevant for objects in the archaeology, antiques, taxidermy and Asian art categories.

Alcohol

There may be additional national import/export regulations for alcohol, which are relevant for objects in our wine, whisky and rum & spirits auctions.

Shipping delays

Orders that go through customs tend to take longer. If it’s 5 days after the estimated delivery date shown on the order page and your order hasn’t been delivered, we’ll send you an email or notification. 

At this point, it’s important to let us know the order hasn’t been delivered so we can pause the payment to the seller and investigate.