Insurance for Fine Art Shipping in Nepal: What You Need to Know

Imagine this: you've acquired a stunning antique sculpture from Patan or a traditional Paubha painting in Bhaktapur—something rare, beautiful, and deeply personal. You're moving internationally and want to take it with you. But what happens if that piece is damaged, lost, or even stolen during transit?

This is where fine art insurance becomes not just useful, but essential.

In this blog, we’ll explain what art shipping insurance is, what it covers, and how you can protect your valuable pieces when shipping fine art to or from Nepal.

Why You Need Fine Art Shipping Insurance

Even with the most careful packing, custom crating, and climate-controlled transport, risks remain during international relocation. These include:

• Mishandling at airports or by customs

• Transit accidents or turbulence

• Theft or misplacement during shipping

• Sudden changes in temperature or humidity

• Natural disasters (floods, earthquakes, etc.)

While regular insurance may cover basic household items, fine art requires specialized coverage tailored to its unique value and sensitivity.

What Does Fine Art Shipping Insurance Cover?

Fine art shipping insurance generally includes protection against:

Coverage	What It Protects Against
Damage	Cracks, tears, smudges, or scratches during packing/shipping
Loss/Theft	Full or partial loss in transit or during layovers
Environmental Damage	Moisture, mold, temperature shock, or UV damage
Improper Handling	Mishandling by airline or third-party logistics
Storage Damage	Incidents during temporary storage before/after shipping

What Fine Art Insurance Does Not Cover

While policies vary, most do not cover:

• Pre-existing damage or wear

• Inadequate or improper packing (if done by the sender)

• Unregistered or undeclared items (especially antiques)

• Delays due to customs paperwork errors

👉 This is why it’s best to use professional art handlers and packers like those at Orient, who ensure compliance and documentation at every step.

Types of Artwork That Should Always Be Insured

Even if you only have one or two pieces, consider insurance for:

• Traditional paintings and scrolls (Paubha, Thangka)

• Antique metal or wood statues

• Textile or woven artwork

• Limited edition or signed prints

• Custom contemporary art and sculptures

• Religious or cultural artifacts with sentimental or collector value

Real-World Example

A diplomat was relocating from Kathmandu to Berlin and had three antique bronze statues. Though well-crated, a baggage mishap at the connecting airport led to significant damage.

Thanks to their insured shipment through Orient International Relocation, the client was reimbursed for repair costs and a partial value claim—without losing the piece forever.

How Orient International Relocation Helps

As a top-tier fine art moving company in Nepal, we not only handle packing and transport, but also help arrange insurance tailored for fine arts and antiques.

Our support includes:

✅ Insurance Advisory

We guide you on the best type of insurance for your item’s value and risk profile.

✅ Valuation & Documentation

We help prepare appraisal documents, condition reports, and photo logs to support your coverage and any future claims.

✅ Packaging Compliance

Our use of archival-grade materials and custom crates ensures your packing meets insurer standards—so there’s no dispute if a claim arises.

✅ Seamless Coordination

We coordinate with reputable insurance providers that specialize in art and high-value cargo.

How to Get Started with Art Shipping Insurance

1. Inventory Your Art

   • List all items, their dimensions, and appraised values.

   • Take high-resolution photos.
     

2. Consult Our Team

   • We’ll discuss the transit route, risk factors, and insurance options.
     

3. Pack and Document Professionally

   • Let us handle packing so the policy remains valid.
     

4. Receive Your Coverage Certificate

   • Keep digital and printed copies for customs and delivery.

Art is more than an object—it’s a legacy, a memory, a part of you. Whether you’re a collector, an expat, a diplomat, or someone bringing home something beautiful from Nepal, fine art shipping insurance gives you peace of mind.

And when paired with Orient’s expert fine art handling, you’re giving your art the care it truly deserves.