1. A Quick Update on the New U.S. Tariffs
In February 2026, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the government could no longer use emergency powers to apply broad tariffs. As a result, the administration switched to a different trade law — Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974 — which allows a temporary 15% tariff on imported goods for 150 days.
This tariff period began immediately after the ruling and is expected to end in July 2026, unless Congress decides to extend it.
For a simple explanation of the ruling and what may happen next, you can read our full breakdown here:
? Understanding the Latest U.S. Tariffs
2. Rising Fuel Prices Are Increasing Shipping Costs Worldwide
Alongside the tariff changes, global fuel prices have risen sharply in recent months. This has had a direct impact on:
- Air freight costs
- Road transport charges
- Carrier surcharges
- Delivery timelines
For large or heavy items — especially stretched canvases — these increases can be significant.
This is why we are recommending a smarter, more cost‑efficient approach for international shipments.
3. Why We Recommend Unstretching and Rolling Artwork
Shipping a stretched canvas internationally is always more expensive than shipping it rolled. With the current tariffs and fuel surcharges, the difference is now even greater.
Shipping Rolled Artwork Offers Major Benefits:
✔ Lower shipping costs
Rolled artwork is lighter, smaller, and cheaper to transport — especially by air.
✔ Avoids unnecessary tariff charges
Rolled canvases are often classified differently and may avoid certain tariff categories entirely.
✔ Safer for long‑distance travel
A rolled canvas packed in a tube is far less vulnerable to impact damage than a stretched frame.
✔ Faster customs clearance
Smaller, lighter shipments move through customs more efficiently.
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4. Prime Lane Offers a Full Unstretching & Rolling Service
To help our clients reduce costs and avoid tariff complications, Prime Lane provides a professional unstretching service, including:
✔ Careful removal of staples/tacks
✔ Protection of edges and paint surface
✔ Rolling the artwork face‑out on acid‑free tissue
✔ Packing into a sturdy, international‑grade tube
✔ Packing and shipping the original stretcher bars alongside the artwork
This ensures your artwork arrives safely and ready to be re‑stretched.
5. Restretching Available in Every Destination Country
Through our trusted network of international partners, we can arrange professional restretching in:
- The United States
- Europe
- Asia
- Australia
- The Middle East
Your artwork will be re‑stretched to gallery standards before final delivery — ensuring a seamless, stress‑free experience.
6. If Your Shipment Is Incorrectly Charged, We'll Handle It
Prime Lane has extensive experience navigating U.S. customs and tariff classifications.
If a shipment is charged incorrectly:
✔ We will challenge the charge on your behalf
✔ Provide all supporting evidence
✔ Submit documentation to show why the tariff should not apply
✔ Keep you updated throughout the process
You're never left to deal with customs alone.
With temporary U.S. tariffs in place and global fuel prices rising, shipping costs have increased across the industry. But there are still smart, cost‑effective ways to move artwork internationally — and rolling your artwork is now the most efficient option.
Prime Lane is here to guide you through every step, from unstretching and packing to customs support and restretching at the destination.
If you'd like advice on the best shipping method for your artwork, our team is always here to help.
PRIME LANE SERVICES FOR ARTISTS
At Prime Lane, we specialize in art shipping worldwide, ensuring that collectors from all over the globe can acquire unique pieces of art with minimal hassle. We understand how precious and personal each artwork is—so we treat it with the care it deserves. Whether you're sending a single canvas across London or a full exhibition overseas, our team specializes in secure, custom packing tailored to the unique needs of artists. From climate-sensitive materials to reinforced crates and compliant documentation, we make sure your work arrives safely, on time, and ready to shine. With trusted courier partners and expert handling, Prime Lane takes the stress out of shipping so you can focus on creating.