How to ship a large-scale sculpture abroad: a practical guide for artists, galleries and collectors

Art delivery is not just about logistics. It is a delicate job that combines technical skill, knowledge of customs legislation and respect for the cultural value of each object. Especially when it comes to large-scale sculptures. The GlobalPost team shares how to ensure the safe transportation of works of art to another country.

Why Sculptures Require a Special Approach

Each sculpture is unique. It can be fragile, heavy, irregularly shaped, or consist of several parts. Such objects require not a mass approach but an individual transportation scenario.

We have repeatedly dealt with artworks that did not fit into standard containers or required special delivery conditions. In such cases, we develop solutions from scratch: we consider dimensions, mounting methods, route, and type of transport. This allows us to safely transport even the most complex objects – both within Ukraine and abroad.

How We Do It at GlobalPost

Our team has experience in transporting complex and valuable cargo. We organize delivery to ensure complete safety for each object:

• Consultation – we assess the dimensions, materials, loading points, and final destination.
• Packing – we produce custom packaging using cushioning materials.
• Transport – we select the appropriate mode of transport based on weight and dimensions.
• Cargo insurance – we cover possible risks. Learn more here.
• Customs clearance – we handle all the paperwork.

Who Can Benefit from This Service

We work with artists, galleries, museums, and collectors who purchase sculptures at auctions or exhibitions. We understand that this is not just about cargo – it often involves personal value, reputation, creativity, and responsibility to partners.

GlobalPost works with both independent artists and large cultural institutions. We support small and medium-sized businesses by offering flexible solutions and transparent rates. Details are available on this page.

What to Consider When Planning Delivery

To ensure that international sculpture transportation proceeds smoothly, it’s important to consider key factors in advance:

• Delivery timeframes. If the sculpture is going to an exhibition or a buyer, it’s crucial to meet deadlines. Allow extra time for customs clearance and possible delays in transit.
• Professional packaging. We recommend budgeting for special materials and custom packaging solutions. This reduces the risk of damage during transportation.
• Documents. Check if you need a permit to export cultural property, certificates of authenticity, or additional supporting documents.
• Insurance. Even if the artwork has a modest value, it’s better to insure the shipment. It’s an effective way to minimize financial risks.

Real Cases of Sculpture Delivery Abroad: GlobalPost Experience

We are proud to have helped Ukrainian artists present themselves abroad.

Kyiv → New York, USA
A sculpture measuring 285×81×89 cm and weighing 395 kg was delivered to the USA within 10 days. We collected the sculpture from a studio in Kyiv, created a custom wooden crate with anti-vibration fixation, arranged air transportation, handled customs clearance in the US, and delivered it to a high-rise building in New York City. The sculpture was lifted to the 4th floor.

Kyiv → London, United Kingdom
Urgent delivery of a bronze sculpture with full customs clearance under a temporary import regime. The entire process — 6 days from request to handover at the exhibition.

Kyiv → Dubai, UAE
Delivery of a sculpture weighing 85 kg and measuring 140×40×40 cm. The entire process — from packing to tax payment in the Emirates — took 5 business days. Customs clearance in the UAE was handled on behalf of the client.

Kyiv → Spain
An artwork was delivered for participation in an exhibition. We ensured safe transportation and coordinated documents with customs.

These cases confirm: we know how to handle fragile and valuable objects when every detail matters.

Conclusion

Shipping a large-scale sculpture abroad is a challenge that requires precise planning and experience. GlobalPost provides comprehensive support at every stage – from consultation to customs clearance.

Whether you create art, collect it, or organize exhibitions – we’ll help arrange delivery with no unnecessary risks or delays.

Have questions? Contact us.
Want to arrange sculpture delivery? Page for artists and sculptors.
Calculate delivery cost — for private clients.
Business delivery — terms for companies and organizations.