How to temporarily export your work
Studio Hancock, final display arrangement, Maison&Objet
Exporting your work overseas can help you build new connections and generate sales. Makers looking to grow their business often ship internationally for trade shows, workshops and touring exhibitions. To take advantage of these opportunities you must understand how to transfer your work to and from the UK with documentation.
To help you get started we've produced a Temporary Export Guide full of vital information, top tips and advice from professionals who've been in your shoes.
If you are new to exporting, we recommend starting with the International Toolkit.
Who is the Temporary Export Guide for?
This resource is intended for designer-makers looking to temporarily export their products, meaning they expect their goods to return to the UK. Products can be one-off items such as art collectables or items more suited to high-street or boutique stores.
What does the Temporary Export Guide include?
Download the pdf resource to access detailed guidance on the following topics:
- Shipping methods
- Essential documents
- International considerations
- ATA Carnet
- Other temporary export options
- Research links
- Glossary of terms
- Case studies from real makers
Alice Walton making in the studio. Photo: Megan Gallacher Mori Mandi by Alice Walton, 2018, coloured porcelain. Photo: Sylvain Deleu
“I contacted the British Chambers of Commerce, who said that the ATA Carnet is like a passport for each of your pieces of work. It is ideal if you know you are bringing the work back to the UK”
- Alice Walton, Ceramicist
Top tips to get you started:
- Speak to other makers to ask for advice.
- Contact the British Chambers of Commerce.
- Set aside dedicated time to do the documentation, as it requires close attention.
- Save all documents in paper and electronic form.
- Label all of your work on the outside, to save time having to unwrap objects.
- Plan what you are going to put on the pallet in advance.
- Communicate clearly with all those concerned.
- Be curious: ask questions about the process and how often you can use the ATA Carnet.
Chris & James, Jimmie Martin
“Visitors to Maison&Objet were pleased to see a UK company exhibiting, especially as it’s unusual post-Brexit. It was good to remind customers that we’re exporting and open for business.”
- Chris and James, Jimmie Martin customised furniture
