Duties and Taxes, Tariffs and Fees

Duties and Taxes, Tariffs and Fees

What Do International Tariffs Mean for Art Collectors?

(And Why Hypergallery Customers Don’t Need to Worry)

Navigating international trade policies can be confusing, especially when it comes to buying art across borders. With ongoing changes in global tariffs, including those introduced during the Trump administration, many collectors in the U.S., Canada, and beyond are understandably concerned about unexpected costs.

At Hypergallery, we believe that collecting art should be joyful, not stressful. That’s why we cover all duties and tariffs for our customers, ensuring a smooth and transparent experience from purchase to delivery.

 

1. What Are Tariffs and How Do They Affect Art?

Tariffs are taxes imposed on imported goods. For example, a 20% tariff on a £1,000 artwork would typically add £200 in import fees. These costs are often passed on to the buyer, making international purchases more expensive.

Artworks are allegedly exempt from many of these tariffs, including those introduced under the Trump administration, but we have not seen any difference shipping with the 'poster' tariff code and the 'original works of art' tariff code in our recent shipments.

 

2. Why Hypergallery Collectors Are Protected

Even in uncertain times, Hypergallery guarantees that the price you see in your basket is the price you pay. We take care of:

  • All import duties and tariffs
  • Customs clearance
  • Shipping logistics

This applies not only to our U.S. customers but also to our valued collectors in Canada and other international destinations. You won’t face surprise fees or clearance delay; just beautiful, collectible art delivered to your door.

 

3. How Tariffs Can Impact the Art Market

While art is often exempt, broader tariffs can still affect the market by:

  • Reducing consumer confidence
  • Slowing economic growth
  • Creating uncertainty for artists and galleries

At Hypergallery, we’re committed to supporting our collectors and artists through these challenges.

 

4. What Collectors Should Know

If you’re buying art internationally, here are a few tips:

  • Check with your seller: Make sure you understand whether you will need to handle customs and duties or whether they will take care of it for you (like we do).
  • Stay informed: Trade policies can change, so it’s good to stay updated.
  • Ask questions: A reputable gallery will be happy to explain the process.

 

5. Hypergallery’s Commitment to You

We’re here to make collecting art as easy and enjoyable as possible. That means:

  • No hidden fees
  • No customs paperwork for you
  • No surprises at delivery

Whether you're in Europe, the U.S., Canada, or anywhere else in the world, you can buy from Hypergallery with confidence.

 

6. Helpful Resources

If you’d like to learn more about import regulations in your region, here are some official resources:

  • U.S. Customs and Border Protection
  • European Commission – Taxation and Customs
  • UK Government – Importing Goods
  • Hong Kong Customs and Excise

 

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