Which service should I use to ship my art prints?
Hi! I’m planning to sell my art prints internationally from India and need some advice on affordable shipping.
My prints will range from A6 to A3, printed on 300 GSM paper, with a greyboard and other protective packaging. The total package weight should stay below 500 g.
I checked India Post’s postage calculator (for International Letter) and got these rates:
UK (for 500 g):
• International Letter: ₹602
• International EMS: ₹2,425
USA (for 500 g):
• International Letter: ₹896
• International EMS: ₹2,324
I’m confused about whether International Letter Post is actually suitable for shipping art prints as merchandise, and whether it includes tracking. I also couldn’t find the exact rates for International Tracked Packet Service (ITPS).
I’d love to understand the entire process, from packaging the prints to delivering them safely to customers internationally.
If you have experience with this, could you please share:
• Which shipping service you use? its approximate cost? Additional costs (GST, registration, custom charges,etc)
• How you package your prints to prevent bending, moisture damage, or other damage during transit?
• Are art prints eligible for International Letter Post, or must they be sent through ITPS?
•Any issues with India Post tracking or international deliveries you have faced?
• Whether you need to register, obtain an IEC (if I get multiple orders), fill out customs declarations, or complete any other formalities.
• Is there a more affordable tracked option?
• Anything else a beginner should know before accepting international orders.
I know this is quite a few questions, but I’d be genuinely grateful if anyone who’s been through this process could share their experience or walk me through it. I want to understand everything properly before I start accepting international orders.
Thanks!