Relocating with art - paintings and pastels

Member since 04 January 2022

kathleentitusMember26 December 2025 23:46:13

I would like to move to Costa Rica from Michigan and my most important belongings are my large oil paintings and pastels. I am wondering how safe it is to ship fragile, sentimental items like one's own oil paintings and pastel with a mover? I am thinking of using a professional mover from the website for the International Federation of International Movers.

I am thinking of that because I understand it is much more expensive to mail large cartons with FedEx -- but wonder if it may be safer?

If possible, I like the idea of keeping my art with me and even checked out cruises to Costa Rica from Miami (lol). Info online was conflicting about whether or not large artwork might be brought on board and kept in one's room....I'll have to try to call the cruise lines and find out more about it

I will appreciate your advice very much and thank you in advance!

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edwinemora Serial expat

Member since 09 May 2021

edwinemoraSerial expat27 December 2025 00:20:08

505

@kathleentitus With your money it will be easy-peasy ?

kathleentitus Member

Member since 04 January 2022

kathleentitusMember27 December 2025 13:39:37

Thanks, that is a good question to start with -- I am not rich but think I should look into the safest ways to ship my belongings - and especially my art.

TerrynViv Serial expat

Member since 21 October 2011

TerrynVivSerial expat27 December 2025 15:16:44

651

We moved with a container and I custom built styrofoam lined wooden crates for all wall pictures and four glass tops from coffee tables and end tables. It was a bit of work, but EVERYTHING travelled safely with no breakages.

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daveandmarcia Serial expat

Member since 03 February 2023

daveandmarciaSerial expat28 December 2025 15:11:57

351

In 2005, we moved from the beach in North Carolina to Costa Rica. That move was contingent on being able to bring our artwork, rugs and Labrador retriever. I did all the packing except for Max. It was a lot of work, but everything arrived intact. I have written instructions which I'm happy to share.

IMPORTANT POINT: Engage a Costa Rica-based container importer. They can provide you a 20- or 40- foot container and make all the arrangements for packing in Michigan, bringing a container to a port-of-entry in Costa Rica, getting through Costa Rica's nightmarish Customs process, and delivering everything to your new home. The cost of the container is a flat rate, full or empty, so if you're in doubt about what to bring, bring it all. Import duties are remarkably low on used household goods.

I also have written instructions on how to determine the size of the container you'll need.