Knowledge centre
We sell to collectors and institutions worldwide. The answers below explain import charges, export licensing for material of national importance, and the documentation that accompanies a cross-border consignment.
Yes. A substantial proportion of our clients are outside the United Kingdom, and international bidders register, bid and pay on exactly the same terms as domestic ones.
Read the full answerImport duty, local sales or value added tax and customs clearance charges are the responsibility of the buyer and are payable to the authorities in the country of destination, not to VALÉORINE. We declare the invoice value accurately and will not understate it.
Read the full answerCertain manuscripts, archives, photographs and works on paper above defined age and value thresholds require a licence before they may leave the United Kingdom. Where a licence is required we apply for it on your behalf after the sale, and we tell you in the catalogue where we anticipate that it will be needed.
Read the full answerA straightforward application is usually determined within several weeks. Where an object is referred for review as potentially of national importance the process is considerably longer, and despatch cannot proceed until the matter is resolved.
Read the full answerIf a licence is ultimately refused, the sale may be rescinded and your payment returned in full under the conditions of sale. You may alternatively keep the lot and hold it within the United Kingdom.
Read the full answerYes. Bindings incorporating protected animal materials such as ivory or tortoiseshell, and certain photographic processes involving controlled substances, are subject to specific regimes. Where such a restriction applies it is stated in the catalogue and its practical effect is explained before bidding opens.
Read the full answerA commercial invoice, a packing list, the customs commodity classification and any applicable export licence. Where the carrier or the sender issues a cover note for the consignment, that document is filed with them. Copies are placed in your client portal.
Read the full answerWe can tell you precisely what we have charged and what we have declared, but we cannot advise on the tax law of your own jurisdiction. Buyers making substantial purchases should take local professional advice.
Read the full answerCatalogues are published in British English, which is the language of our conditions of sale. Correspondence in French, Italian, Spanish or German can generally be arranged on request.
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