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Preserving Rare Books
Books are robust objects that fail in predictable ways. This guide covers shelving, handling, environment and the interventions an owner should never attempt.
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Knowledge centre
Shipping & Collection
Paper is fragile, and we treat despatch as part of the sale rather than an afterthought. The answers below explain packing standards, timescales and the options available to you.
9 questions
How is my purchase packed?
Paper and parchment are interleaved with acid-free tissue, supported flat or in a purpose-made folder, enclosed in a rigid archival board sandwich and then double-boxed with a moisture barrier. Framed works travel with glass taped or, where the value warrants it, in a bespoke travel frame.
Read the full answerWhen will my purchase be despatched?
Despatch follows the clearance of funds and, where required, the grant of an export licence. Domestic consignments are usually sent within three working days of clearance; international consignments depend on the carrier and on customs formalities.
Read the full answerIs my purchase insured in transit?
Yes. Every consignment we arrange is insured for the full invoice value from the moment it leaves our care until delivery is signed for. If you instruct your own carrier, risk passes to you on collection and insurance becomes your responsibility.
Read the full answerCan I collect in person?
Lots are dispatched by insured carrier once payment has cleared; we do not receive buyers at our London offices, which are working premises. Packing is arranged by us, shipping quotations are issued in writing before dispatch, and a tracking reference is sent to the address on the invoice. Where a third party is to receive the lot on your behalf, we require your written authority naming that person.
Read the full answerCan I use my own shipping agent?
Yes. Provide us with the agent details and written authority, and the property is released to them once payment has cleared. The lot is packed to our own standard unless you instruct otherwise.
Read the full answerHow much does shipping cost?
Cost depends on size, weight, value, destination and the level of service required. We provide a written quotation with the invoice, and there is no obligation to accept it.
Read the full answerDo you ship framed and glazed works?
Yes, although for long-distance transport we generally recommend removing glass and shipping the work unframed with the frame separately, or substituting an acrylic glazing. The safest arrangement for the particular object is advised on request.
Read the full answerWhat if my purchase arrives damaged?
Retain all packaging, photograph the condition as received and notify us within three working days. Where we arranged the transit our insurance responds; the claim is handled and the carrier corresponded with on your behalf.
Read the full answerCan you store my purchase for a period?
Short-term storage in controlled conditions can be arranged by agreement, without charge for the first weeks after the sale and at a modest rate thereafter. Storage does not delay the due date for payment.
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