Top 5 Countries Where Ukrainian Artists Most Often Ship Paintings

Ukrainian art is increasingly going global. Artists participate in international exhibitions, sell paintings via online platforms, and collaborate with private collectors worldwide.
Each year, more people request international delivery of paintings, as interest in Ukrainian painting steadily grows.

However, before you send a painting abroad from Ukraine, it’s important to understand that artworks require special packing conditions and proper paperwork. Even contemporary works with no cultural-property status may draw questions at customs if the shipment is prepared incorrectly.

ArtDom helps artists, collectors, and galleries ship paintings abroad safely and legally — arranging permits, expert examinations, and professional packing.

Why Ukrainian Paintings Are in Demand Abroad

Over the past decade, Ukrainian art has become a notable presence on the global market.
Contemporary Ukrainian artists demonstrate high craftsmanship, stylistic diversity, and emotional depth.

Several factors drive demand for artworks from Ukraine:

• Interest in original painting. Ukrainian artists create sincere, emotionally charged works that convey national character and energy.
• Growth of online platforms. Thanks to Saatchi Art, Etsy, Instagram, and gallery websites, paintings from Ukraine are purchased in the USA, Germany, Poland, and beyond.
• Quality and accessibility. Ukrainian art combines a high level of execution with reasonable prices, attracting collectors.
• Professional logistics. It’s now easier to organize international delivery of paintings — from expert reports to insurance and customs clearance.

ArtDom supports artists at every stage: paperwork, packing, and transportation, ensuring safe and fast delivery to any destination.

How Ukrainian Artists Ship Paintings Abroad

Modern logistics allow several methods of shipping paintings internationally. The right choice affects both the artwork’s safety and delivery time.

Main delivery options

• Air freight.
  The fastest option, especially for the USA, Canada, or Asia. Requires professional packing and customs documentation.
• International postal services.
  Many emerging artists choose this as a more affordable method. But to send a painting by mail abroad, prepare it properly — include photos, descriptions, and copies of documents to avoid customs delays.
• Specialized art logistics.
  The best solution for valuable or large works. Professional companies like ArtDom provide packing, insurance, permits, and full oversight.

What to know before shipping

Before you send a painting abroad, check:

• Whether an examination is required. If the painting is over 50 years old or of cultural value, you must obtain a permit from the Ministry of Culture.
• When it’s possible without a certificate. Contemporary original works can be shipped without an expert report if they are not cultural property.
• Risks of DIY shipping. Without proper documentation and packing, a painting may be delayed or damaged.

ArtDom not only prepares documents but also explains how to send a painting abroad without a certificate when the work is contemporary and does not require expert review.

Top 5 Countries Where Ukrainians Most Often Ship Paintings

1. Germany — a hub of the European art market

Germany has long been one of the most popular destinations for shipping paintings abroad.
Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg boast active galleries, art fairs, and private collections.
Ukrainian artists frequently ship to Germany for exhibitions and online sales.

German customs are strict: it’s essential to prepare documents correctly and confirm the work is not cultural property.
ArtDom helps secure the necessary permits, complete export paperwork, and deliver paintings without delays.

2. Poland — the nearest and most convenient route

Poland is one of the most convenient countries for exporting paintings from Ukraine.
Proximity, clear rules, and strong demand for Ukrainian painting make it especially attractive.
Many artists ship to Polish collectors or join joint exhibitions.

If the work is contemporary and not antique, you can send a painting abroad without a certificate — a copy of the certificate of authenticity and photos are usually sufficient.
ArtDom provides packing, export support, and fast European delivery.

3. USA — one of the world’s largest art markets

American collectors appreciate the emotional power and originality of Ukrainian art.
The USA is a top destination for international painting shipments for private sales and exhibitions.

Given the distance, it’s vital to know how to send a painting by mail from Ukraine safely:

• use sturdy tubes and moisture barriers;
• insure the parcel;
• include documents confirming authorship.

ArtDom has experience with international air shipments to the USA and handles everything end-to-end — from packing to insurance.

4. France — a country of galleries and inspiration

France is traditionally synonymous with art. Paris, Nice, Lyon, and Bordeaux regularly host Ukrainian exhibitions and art projects.
French customs require documents confirming provenance and value — crucial when exporting icons or antique paintings.

You can ship a painting abroad without an expert report only when it’s a contemporary work.
ArtDom guides you through the examination process and prepares all documents to ensure smooth delivery to France.

5. Italy — the homeland of art and antiques

Italy is a prime destination for shipping paintings abroad, especially for classical art.
Local collectors readily purchase Ukrainian works, and artists frequently exhibit in Milan, Rome, and Florence.

Italian customs are especially strict with antiques and religious works.
If you plan to export icons or antique paintings, you’ll need an examination and an export permit.
ArtDom prepares documents, obtains permits, and arranges robust packing so even fragile works arrive in perfect condition.

Center for packaging valuable and fragile items in Ukraine – https://packingcentre.com.ua/

What Documents Are Needed to Ship a Painting Abroad

Before you send a painting abroad from Ukraine, clarify whether an examination is required.

1. When an examination is mandatory:

• the painting is over 50 years old;
• the item is an icon, an antique, or a work by a renowned artist.

1. When you can ship without a certificate:

• contemporary and original works can be sent without an expert report, provided you attach a certificate of authenticity and a copy of the sales contract.

1. Additional documents:

• a copy of the artist’s or owner’s passport;
• photos of the painting and packing;
• an export declaration (for commercial shipments).

ArtDom prepares all documents correctly so international delivery of paintings proceeds without risk.

Tips for Artists Shipping a Painting Abroad for the First Time

• Photograph the artwork and packing before shipment — helpful for insurance claims.
• Check the destination country’s rules. Some countries restrict the import of religious images or antiques.
• Use moisture protection and sturdy packing, especially if you send a painting by mail.
• Don’t skimp on packing and insurance — even inexpensive works need careful handling.
• Consult specialists. ArtDom will pick the best option — from international shipping to full paperwork.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How to send a painting abroad from Ukraine?

Determine whether the work is cultural property. If it’s over 50 years old or of artistic value, you must pass an examination and obtain a permit from the Ministry of Culture. Contemporary original works can be shipped more simply — without a certificate, with standard export papers. ArtDom prepares the documents, packs the piece, and organizes international delivery without risk or bureaucracy.

How to ship a painting abroad without a certificate?

This is possible when the work is contemporary, created in recent years, and shows no signs of being an antique. Provide a certificate of authenticity, photos, and (if selling) a copy of the sales contract. ArtDom advises whether an examination is needed and prepares documents for simplified delivery.

Can I send a painting by mail abroad?

Yes, if the piece is not cultural property and is relatively small. Ensure reliable packing, moisture and impact protection, and declare it as “painting, not of cultural value.” ArtDom explains how to send a painting by mail safely and selects the best packing and carrier for your destination.

How to correctly mail a painting abroad from Ukraine?

Examinations aren’t required for contemporary works. Antiques or icons need an export permit. Pack in a sturdy tube or box with protective layers; always insure the parcel. ArtDom provides consultations and professional packing to prevent damage or customs delays.

What’s required for international delivery of paintings?

Provenance or authorship documents; an expert report (if over 50 years old); a certificate of authenticity (for contemporary works); photos of the painting and packing for customs. ArtDom handles the paperwork and organizes worldwide delivery — fast, safe, and guaranteed.

Can I use a courier service?

Yes, but not all companies take responsibility for fine art. ArtDom works only with vetted partners experienced in shipping paintings internationally, providing climate control, insurance, and tracking.

How much does international shipping cost?

It depends on size, method (air, road, mail), and destination. Europe usually takes 3–7 days at lower cost; the USA typically 7–14 days. ArtDom proposes the optimal option and calculates total cost, including packing and paperwork.

Is insurance necessary?

Absolutely. Even if you know how to send a painting abroad, transit risks remain. Insurance protects you financially and emotionally, especially for mail or air shipments. ArtDom arranges coverage based on market value and route.

What if customs detains the painting?

ArtDom promptly supplies required documents — certificates, expert reports, descriptions, or permit copies — and supports you until the shipment is cleared.

Why trust ArtDom?

Because we specialize in international shipping of paintings: we handle permits and certificates; advise on how to send a painting abroad without a certificate; provide professional packing; and manage door-to-door delivery. ArtDom makes the process simple, lawful, and safe.

Conclusion

Ukrainian art is confidently winning the international market — our paintings adorn galleries, offices, and private collections worldwide.
Success depends not only on talent but also on correct logistics. By understanding how to send a painting abroad, you can safely sell, exhibit, and promote your art beyond Ukraine.
ArtDom will arrange all necessary documents, obtain permits, pack, and organize international delivery to any country. Create, inspire, and sell — we’ll ensure your paintings travel the world safely and legally.

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Reliable packaging and international delivery of valuable items – https://wellpack.com.ua/