Shipping Paintings Abroad with DHL Ukraine in 2023

Since March 2022, we have seen how DHL offices and branches ceased operations in Ukraine. As a result, many Ukrainians faced the question – which courier service to use for sending parcels, including art pieces, abroad? 

Over many years of operation, DHL has established itself as one of the most reliable international couriers. Therefore, many were pleased to see their trucks driving around Kyiv in the summer of 2022. Regarding the shipping of art objects (paintings, graphics, sculptures, etc.), DHL has several requirements – you must prepare the following:

- Documents for exporting art objects from Ukraine (expert evaluation report);

- Completed customs forms;

- A completed Invoice in English specifying the HS Code;

- Documents confirming the value of the artwork (receipt, invoice);

- A copy of the passport;

- The art object must already be crated in wooden packaging.

The maximum size of paintings should not exceed 80 x 100 cm.

As of now (March 2023), DHL's operations are inconsistent. You might call them to book a pickup on Monday, but by Wednesday, the answering machine may inform you that "DHL has temporarily suspended operations in Ukraine." Due to these requirements and uncertainties, users often opt for other courier services.

Currently, two couriers remain reliable for international art shipping – Meest Express and Ukrposhta. It is often said that Nova Poshta also ships art objects abroad, but we could not get a definitive answer from their support. Their branches informed us that, according to their internal policies, they do not ship art objects internationally. This is likely due to a lack of international agreements, certifications, and licenses. Their hotline was also unable to calculate the shipping cost of a painting due to this limitation.

Regarding Meest Express, delivery is indeed quick, but a significant downside is the high cost. Additionally, Meest has size restrictions for the paintings they transport.

As for Ukrposhta, it’s worth noting that this courier has been operating since 1947 and has a special reputation, which it has been striving to improve over the last 10 years. Today, Ukrposhta is a reliable courier for shipping goods, including art objects, outside Ukraine. Three significant advantages:

- They continued operations in 2022 and have been a backbone for Ukrainians in delivering goods to and from Ukraine;

- Very reasonable shipping costs – low rates compared to competitors;

- Delivery times are comparable to competitors, averaging 10–20 days.

Ukrposhta holds all the necessary international agreements, certifications, and licenses for international shipping. They operate consistently and deliver at affordable prices. For example, when you send a painting, you receive a tracking number, monitor the shipment on their website (available in Ukrainian and English), and wait for its successful delivery to the recipient.

Contact the specialists at ArtDom Gallery, and we will calculate the cost of shipping a painting or sculpture at the most favorable rates. We have been providing a full range of services for over 7 years:

- Documents for exporting art objects;

- Packaging art objects for international shipping;

- Shipping art objects across Ukraine, Kyiv, and worldwide.

Call us, and we will consult you at +380632478102

Write to us in Telegram or Viber

We are always happy to assist you!