Buying a Painting from Pakistan When You Live Abroad: What to Expect

Many of the people who order calligraphy from Pakistan do not live there. They are families in Britain, North America, Europe, the Gulf and Australia who want an original painting from home, or a gift sent to relatives. Buying across borders is straightforward once you know how it works. This guide sets out what to expect when ordering from InkByHand.

Prices and currency

The shop shows prices in Pakistani rupees, US dollars or euros, depending on where you are browsing from. The price shown is for the artwork. Shipping is quoted separately, for the reason explained next.

How shipping is quoted

There is no flat shipping rate. A painting's shipping cost depends on its packed size and weight, whether it is framed, the destination, and the courier service. After you place an order, the studio works out the cost for your parcel and sends you a quote. Nothing is charged until you have seen and approved it. For a large or framed painting, international shipping can be a significant part of the total, so it is worth asking for an estimate before you decide between sizes. The full details are in the shipping policy.

How long it takes

• Ready pieces are typically dispatched within 1 to 3 business days of order confirmation.
• Custom pieces are dispatched after the production time agreed with you.
• International delivery usually takes 7 to 21 business days after dispatch, plus any time the parcel spends in customs.

These are estimates. Weather, courier volume, customs inspection and remote addresses can add time. If you need a gift for a date, order early and tell the studio the date.

Customs duties and import taxes

Your own country may charge import duty, VAT or a handling fee when the parcel arrives. These charges are set by your customs authority, are not included in the shipping quote, and are paid by the buyer. Rules and thresholds differ from country to country and change over time, so check your government's guidance on importing artwork before you order.

How a painting is packed

Framed pieces are wrapped with cushioning and rigid support. Where it is appropriate, an unframed canvas may be rolled in a protective tube, which lowers the shipping cost; a local framer can then stretch or frame it. Fragile parcels are marked for careful handling, and all international shipments are tracked, with tracking details shown on your order page once the parcel is dispatched.

Unsure which option suits you? Read stretched canvas, canvas board, framed or unframed.

If something goes wrong

• Photograph the parcel before and as you open it. If the box is damaged, photograph that first.
• Report damage within 48 hours of delivery. Use “Request Return / Refund” on the order in your account and share your photographs.
• Keep all the packaging until the matter is settled.

The refund policy explains what happens next and what is covered, including the rules for custom work.

Before you order

• Measure your wall. Returns across borders are costly for everyone. The size guide helps you get it right first time.
• Ask to see more. Request extra photographs or a short video of the piece in side light.
• Confirm the text. Ask for the verse reference; see how to check the text on a painting.
• Sending a gift to Pakistan? You can order from abroad for delivery to family there, add a gift message and have the parcel packed without prices.

Browse handmade calligraphy paintings, check the payment methods, or ask the studio for a shipping estimate to your country.

Sources

• The InkByHand shipping policy and refund policy, as published on 11 November 2026.