It’s easy to assume that since Mexico is a country that borders the United States, shipping high value items like rare art, and vintage, upscale furniture would be a somewhat simple process. But there are several crucial elements and steps to consider when shipping to the massive country.
Similar to preparing anything for international shipping, make sure that your item is thoroughly packaged and wrapped efficiently. Always take extra precaution with packaging if sending rare art or sculptures. These delicate pieces should be extensively padded with layers bubble packaging and protective masking tape. For extra protection, use cardboard to line the frames of the art pieces. Now that your item is ready for shipping, double-check and verify the address.
Addresses in Mexico are typically written in this example format:
Juan Herrero
Calle Falso 3-403
Puerto Juarez
77520 CANCUN, Q. ROO
MEXICO
As you can see, this address deviates slightly from the way, packages in America are shipped. The address begins with the person’s name, followed by their street number and name as well as apartment number. The next line is the village name and then the postal code, locality name and province abbreviation. Consult this link to determine the abbreviation.
An absolutely vital step is making a complete list of items the dimension of items in your package. Make sure to include in your list the artist’s name as well as a detailed photograph of the piece. After this critical step, Mexico costumes officials should be able to accurately determine your importation fee and brokerage quote for the items. Mexico has a 15% national sales tax and chances are you will have to pay this duty on your pieces, So make sure to factor that into your shipping cost. It’s generally recommended that you ship your items via the air as opposed to ground transportation.
And regardless of how you choose to send your items, always make sure to visit Navis Pack and Ship to determine the best way to send your pieces.
Image: Flickr
