You’ve Won the Bid! Now What? A Collector’s Guide to Art Shipping

Whether you are a first-time buyer or a seasoned collector, once you have successfully purchased your artwork on Bidsquare, understanding how to arrange shipment of your winning bid is essential. Proper art shipping protects your investment, prevents damage to the artwork, and ensures it arrives safely, allowing you to enjoy it for years to come. Here are some helpful hints to help you navigate this sometimes complicated process.

You successfully bid on your artwork at Bidsquare, now what?
Shipment options are often provided by the auction house from which you purchased your item. Each auction house will list shipping information in the “Auction Information” section of each individual sale page for that auction. For example, for the upcoming August 2025 Auction at Scottsdale Art Auction, you have the option to pick up your purchase, arrange shipping yourself, or arrange shipping with the auction house's preferred shipping vendors.

To crate or not to crate
Most art shipping services include a crate or protective container, internal packing, and a secure mode of transportation. If you are interested in an item that is coming up for auction, contacting the auction house ahead of time to get a shipment quote will prevent some sticker shock later. Shipping costs for artworks can add up, but don't be tempted to cut corners and save money, as your item may not arrive in the condition you expected, and sometimes it may even be damaged.

Remember to calculate taxes
Always remember to calculate state taxes into your budget. State and local taxes on art purchases at auctions can add up. If you are shipping from one state to another, your state may require the auction house to collect and pay sales tax for the final delivery destination, depending on the economic nexus laws of the state where you reside. For example, Scottsdale Art Auction is located in Arizona. If you purchase an item from their upcoming auction and you live in California, Scottsdale Art Auction may be required to collect and pay California sales tax. If you are sticking to a particular budget, it is crucial to reach out to the auction house prior to the sale to ask any questions and to get a quote. 

If you are shipping internationally, the items you purchased may be subject to laws governing the export from the country where they were bought and the import into the country where they are shipped. It is the buyer's responsibility to be aware of any restrictions and to obtain the necessary licenses. Work with the auction house, your country's customs agent, and/or government entity before participating in an auction.

Peace of mind
Shipping items from an auction house to your home always carries a risk of damage, loss, or theft. Many auction houses, shippers, or insurance companies offer art insurance to provide protection while your artwork is in transit. Insurance premiums typically are a percentage of the artwork's value. Make sure you reach out to the auction house where you purchased your item. For example, if you are buying an item from the August 2025 Auction at Scottsdale Art Auction, they will arrange to have the Property packed, insured, and shipped (unless picked up or arranged with a third-party shipper).

Do not put yourself at risk of damage, loss, or exceeding your budget. If you plan ahead by arranging shipment, estimating taxes, and securing insurance, your artwork purchased through Bidsquare will be safe and protected.