How to Buy Antiques Across Borders Responsibly | Antique Repair Shop

Cross-border purchases can involve export licences, cultural-property rules, wildlife-material controls, tax and import documentation. Requirements depend on object, age, material, origin and destination.

What to do

Ask the seller for precise material identification and provenance. Verify current rules with official authorities and the carrier before paying.

Before you commit

Do not accept vague customs descriptions or split invoices. Ivory, tortoiseshell, certain woods and archaeological material can require particular scrutiny.

Keep the record

Keep licences, declarations and shipping records permanently with the object. Professional legal advice may be needed for high-risk material.

Trusted references

[BADA: Buying antiques](https://www.bada.org/advice/buying-and-selling-antiques/buying-antiques)
[CINOA: Code of Ethics and Charter](https://www.cinoa.org/about/code-of-ethics/)

This guide is general information, not legal, financial, insurance or valuation advice. Terms and consumer rights vary by location and sale method.

Continue learning

Watch practical examinations and restoration work on the [Antique Repair Shop YouTube channel](https://www.youtube.com/@AntiqueRepairShop).