| | |  Vallarta Living | Art Talk | September 2009 
New Brokerage Rules Announced for Exporting Art & Collectibles to Mexico
 Debra Stevenson - crateinteriors.com
September 09, 2009
Puerto Vallarta - Export brokers working across borders between the United States and Mexico announced new rules and regulations last month, particularly affecting the transport of personal items, artwork and collectibles.
With this in mind, design firm CRATE Interiors offers the following tips gleaned directly from brokerage officials to help clients ship home décor items to their resort homes in Mexico:
First, have your goods professionally packaged with corners well reinforced. There's nothing more disappointing that having your treasures damaged in transit. A few well-placed cardboard corners, extra heavy electrical tape and puncture-proof packaging will ensure the journey is successful.
Next, prepare an accurate list of your items with dimensions, value, artist name and a photograph. These are essential for obtaining a valid brokerage quote and accessing importation fees. Keep in mind, customs officials are now wired to the internet and very art savvy. "Brokers have become veritable curators and connoisseurs in their own rights," explains Debra Stevenson of CRATE. "They will easily spot the difference between your Boardwalk Find and your Fabulous Brancusi."
Then, be aware of recent changes. On 14 August 2009 the Mexican Marines and new federal officers took over customs duties at San Diego-Tijuana (CRATE's border point of entry.)
"All the old officers were fired and new ones installed to ensure adherence the new laws," sites agent Felipe Martin, who does work for the design firm. According to this veteran expeditor, these new changes will affect the fees, value and handling accessed for art crossing the border in both directions.
Another option is to consider sending your possessions via air versus ground. This often costs more but may prevent your packages from being opened, inspected and frequently damaged in transition. Airfreight is inspected and transported differently, and sometimes special stickers can be used to identify and prescreen fragile and valuable items.
If you're tempted to roll up your artwork and treat it as carryon luggage, keep in mind this is technically smuggling, advises Gary Thompson from Galeria Pacifico. The risk you take falls in line with undeclared currency and controlled substances, to name a few
Finally, don't intentionally underestimate your art portfolio. This only leads to fines, impoundment and the risk of losing your valuables altogether. If they are important to you, treat them as such and enjoy them forever.
If the process seems daunting, why not consider leaving your artwork in your primary residence and seek out a knowledgeable designer or art collector to take you on a tour of the area's renown galleries and artist studios. After all, nothing beats the thrill of a brand new find!
 Crate Interiors is the ultimate turnkey furnishing solution offering complete move-in ready interior design packages for resort living in paradise. We assist clients with the purchase, transport and install of artwork, personal items and offer a professional White Glove Installation as part of our service. With over 25 years experience in design, product development and project management, we are pleased to serve the Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit region. To learn more, visit CrateInteriors.com or send an email to debra(at)crateinteriors.com. |
|
| |
Vallarta Weddings
Tell a Friend
Site Map
Print this Page
Email Us