How to get Antiques Home from England?
Shipping Antiques Home: What You Need to Know
This is one of the most common questions we get before heading out on antique shopping trips—and for good reason! We know the process can seem overwhelming, so we’ve made it as simple and stress-free as possible. We’ll walk you through your options, share tried-and-true tips (learned from years of mistakes), and help you avoid costly surprises.
Our goal? To make sure you leave the US knowing exactly how you can get your treasures home—and what it might cost BEFORE you start shopping.
Option 1: Packing Items in Your Suitcase
Best for: A few small-to-medium pieces
This is often the fastest and least expensive way to bring items home. Don’t forget—you can check oversized luggage too! Got a large box or an awkwardly shaped item? That’s okay. It just counts as another bag with an oversize fee, same as extra luggage.
Price Tip: Exact fees vary depending on your airline and your status with them. For example, if you’re a Diamond Medallion member, you may get three free bags—so you might only pay for the oversized one!
Option 2: Mailing via Post Office
Best for: Small, lightweight items (aka “smalls”)
Yes, you can use the Royal Mail or the local post office. It’s a budget-friendly option but be prepared for some paperwork at the counter—and a slower delivery time (possibly several weeks).
Heads up: Customs tariffs might apply, depending on what you're sending and how it's labeled. We hate the “T” word too, but it’s part of the game.
Option 3: Using UPS, DHL, or FedEx
Best for: Those who want hands-off service—but it comes with risks
These courier services will handle the packaging, paperwork, and delivery. It used to be our go-to method—until recent changes in tariffs and increased customs scrutiny made it a gamble.
What’s changed? If customs flags your shipment, it can be very difficult (and expensive) to resolve the issue. Reaching a real person at these large shipping companies is frustrating, and in some cases, they may threaten to return or even destroy your shipment if not resolved quickly.
Option 4: Full-Service Container Shipping
Best for: Large antique or vintage items, or multiple purchases from different locations
We work with an experienced international shipper who can pick up your purchases across England—even meeting you at fairs—and handle everything from packing to container loading.
We’ve worked with several companies over the years, and here’s what we’ve learned: while they may look the same on the outside, the differences become obvious when your items arrives.
What varies?
Packing materials and techniques
Customer service and communication
Overall cost and value
As with most things in life, you get what you pay for.
Final Advice
We openly share our shipping wins and fails with clients—because experience matters. If you’re considering a shop-and-ship antique trip, make sure your host personally imports to the US. That’s how you know they understand the real process, not just the theory.
Let us help you save time, money, and headaches. That way, you can focus on the fun part—finding treasures!