What to expect from Convelio’s Courier Service with DHL or FedEx?

Convelio is a specialized fine art shipping company, trusted by galleries, collectors, and institutions worldwide for handling valuable and sensitive artworks with care. Our core services are built around high-touch, end-to-end logistics: from collection and crating to international transport, customs clearance, and white-glove delivery.

That said, for less fragile and lower-value shipments with standard dimensions, we can also offer a courier-based solution through DHL and FedEx. This cost-effective and efficient alternative includes customs clearance and doorstep delivery by the courier service, all under Convelio’s supervision. It’s a good fit for clients looking for simplicity at a competitive rate, provided the nature of the shipment is compatible with standard courier operations.

Below is a summary of how this service works and what to expect.

Depending on how the piece is prepared before shipment, the courier process may vary:

1. If your piece is already crated and meets our packing guidelines:

   • Label generation & pickup scheduling: Convelio generates and sends the shipping label to the collection contact details you provided. We schedule a pickup for a given day and time window, and share those details in advance. However, courier pickups are operated according to local routes and driver availability, which means timings can shift — even on the scheduled day — or occasionally be postponed to the next working day. Convelio closely monitors the shipment and follows up to ensure the soonest possible collection, though some flexibility is inherent to courier operations.

   • Collection process: At pickup, DHL or FedEx drivers may not have access to the internal shipment references you’ve shared with us. They rely on the parcel being clearly labeled and ready for handover. While Convelio transmits all necessary details to the courier, we cannot control how this information circulates within DHL and Fedex’s local teams.

2. If Convelio handles collection and crating:

   One of Convelio’s specialized handlers collects the artwork and brings it to our crating facility, where it is professionally packed. We then arrange courier pickup from our crating center, where DHL and FedEx vans come daily. In this setup, you don’t need to manage any logistics : Convelio oversees the full chain and ensures a smooth dispatch.

• Transport and delivery are carried out by DHL or FedEx, either by air or road. The service includes standard delivery without appointment. Deliveries take place on weekdays, and the delivery day is determined by the courier company based on their local route planning. It is not possible to request a specific delivery date.

• A standard delivery is by default a “curbside” delivery: the shipment will be delivered to the building entrance, meaning just outside the front door or reception area. Please note that this service does not include bringing the package inside the premises or up any stairs.

• A signature is required upon delivery. If no one is available to receive the parcel, the courier will attempt redelivery a limited number of times. If those attempts fail, the shipment may be returned to sender.

• DHL and FedEx may send email or text notifications directly to the importer or delivery contact, requesting information or documents, or sharing delivery updates. These messages are sent directly by the courier system, and Convelio does not control their content or timing.

• We always do our best to anticipate documentation needs and ensure a clear flow of information. However, the courier may still contact the importer directly for additional import documents, confirmation of delivery, and payment of duties and taxes (D&Ts). We recommend informing the importer in advance so they are aware and responsive if contacted.

• For international courier shipments, import customs clearance is handled directly by DHL or FedEx as part of their service. Any special instructions related to clearance (e.g. temporary import, VAT exemption) must be clearly written on the commercial invoice provided at the time of booking.

• While we coordinate closely with the courier, we cannot guarantee that these instructions will always be followed as intended, especially in complex cases. For shipments with sensitive or non-standard customs requirements, we recommend using our Fine Art Air Cargo or shuttle service with our dedicated customs broker to ensure full oversight and compliance.

We can enhance the basic courier service with the following premium options:

• White glove delivery: After DHL/FedEx delivers to Convelio’s local warehouse, we coordinate a specialized delivery to your final destination by appointment. This includes delivery to the room of choice, unpacking, and crate removal.

• Ad valorem insurance: Additional coverage is available upon request.

Courier services like DHL or FedEx are ideal shipments where speed and cost are the main priorities. For fragile, high-value, or installation-sensitive works, we recommend Convelio’s Fine Art Air Cargo service, which includes full handling, appointments, and white-glove delivery as standard.

For any questions or guidance on the best option for your shipment, feel free to reach out, we’re here to help.