At Uncanny Details, we understand that moving a masterpiece requires a blend of white-glove care and global technical precision. Our commitment to the artist’s vision extends far beyond the gallery wall.
We specialize in the complex logistics required to move contemporary art within and across borders. Our shipping process is designed to ensure that the "uncanny details" of your art and/or acquisition remain intact and is preserved during its journey.
By using this site, accessing our website or engaging our services, you are entering into a legal agreement with Uncanny Details LTD, and you agree to the following terms and policies:
1. The Logistics Framework (Third-Party Disclosure)
Uncanny Details LTD acts as the facilitator of your art’s journey. Please note, while we manage the curation and specialized packaging of your art, the actual transit is facilitated by our network of Third-Party Logistics Partners (e.g., DHL, FedEx, or specialized art couriers).
- The Handoff: We partner with premium third-party logistics providers (including but not limited to DHL, FedEx, and specialized art-handling couriers) to execute the physical delivery.
- Limitation of Liability: You acknowledge that once an artwork is handed over to a third-party carrier, the timing and physical handling are subject to that carrier’s own terms and conditions, and specific terms of service and carriage. Uncanny Details LTD is not a common carrier and does not assume the liabilities of the transport provider. Uncanny Details LTD is as well not liable for delays, strikes, or service interruptions caused by third-party providers.
2. Handling & Specialized Crating
Every piece of art is unique, so we treat packaging as a science.
- Preparation Time: You agree to allow 5–26 business days for our team to secure the necessary export permits (NCMM, etc) and prepare professional, climate-appropriate crating.
- Handling Fee: A specialized handling fee may be applied to cover the cost of museum-grade materials and professional crating labor. This fee is non-refundable once the crating process has commenced.
- Hand-Off: Our responsibility for the physical condition of the work concludes upon successful hand-off to the carrier, at which point the carrier’s insurance and transit protocols take effect.
3. Nigerian Export Compliance (The NCMM Requirement)
For all works departing Nigeria, legal compliance is mandatory:
- Government Clearance: We facilitate the physical inspection and obtain the necessary clearance from the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM).
- Timeline: Please allow an additional 5–26 business days for this regulatory process. We cannot bypass this statutory requirement, as it ensures your artwork is legally exported and cleared for international entry.
4. International Customs, Duties, and Taxes
Art is subject to the trade laws of the destination country. For our global collectors, please be aware that:
- Buyer’s Responsibility: All import duties, VAT, brokerage fees, and local taxes & customs fees are the sole responsibility of the buyer.
- Abandoned Shipments: If a shipment is returned to us because the Buyer failed to pay local customs duties or refused delivery, the Buyer will be responsible for all return shipping costs, storage fees, and a 21% administrative reprocessing fee.
- Regulatory Delays: We provide all necessary documentation from our part; (COAs, Export Permits), but we cannot control delays at your local customs office.
5. Transfer of Risk
Unless otherwise agreed in writing, the risk of loss or damage passes from Uncanny Details LTD to the buyer at the moment the artwork leaves our premises, or is collected by the designated third-party carrier, or is collected by the Buyer’s designated agent. We strongly recommend that all shipments be fully insured, a service we can facilitate upon request. If a Buyer chooses to waive insurance, they assume all financial risks associated with transit mishaps.
6. Delivery Address & Security
- Verified Addresses Only: We do not ship to P.O. Boxes. Due to the high value of our inventory, a physical signature from a legally recognized adult (who is also at least 18+ years of age) is required for all deliveries.
- No Rerouting: For security and fraud prevention, we cannot change the delivery address once the artwork has been dispatched.
7. Force Majeure & Transit Delays
Art logistics can be affected by factors beyond our control. Uncanny Details LTD is not liable for delays caused by:
- Customs inspections or regulatory holds.
- Port strikes, civil unrest, or "Acts of God".
- Global supply chain or fuel disruptions.
8. Arrival Inspection (The 24-Hour Rule)
To protect both the artist and the collector, we enforce a strict inspection protocol:
- You must inspect the package immediately upon arrival.
- Any discrepancy or damage must be reported to Uncanny Details in writing, with photographic evidence of both the packaging and the artwork, within 24 hours of delivery. Failure to report within this window constitutes your legal acceptance of the work in its delivered condition.
9. Changes to This Policy
Uncanny Details LTD reserves the right to modify these logistics protocols to adapt to changing international shipping laws or new partnership agreements. We may update our shipping protocols as we onboard new logistics partners or as international trade regulations evolve. Changes are effective immediately upon posting. We will always note the "Last Updated" date at the top of the page so you can stay informed. Your continued engagement with our services constitutes acceptance of these legal standards. Any updates will be posted here and will apply to all orders placed after the "Last Updated" date.
10. Contact Information
For questions regarding an active shipment, tracking inquiries, custom crating quotes, export documentation or a logistics quote, we are here to help. Please reach out via email: logistics@uncannydetails.com