Godson & Coles
Industry
Location
- London
Services Provided
Client Account Manager
Clare Moss
Antiques Shipping Manager
Overview
An international reputation to uphold
Founded in 1986, Godson & Coles specialise in the collection and sale of the finest eighteenth-century English furniture along with outstanding mid 20th century Modern British Art. As one of London’s leading art and antique galleries, Godson & Coles has developed an international reputation for dealing in the highest quality of antique furniture and modern art; a combination which is unique to them.
Having handled some of the most important pieces of antique English furniture and modern British art, and as BADA members, Godson & Coles has built up a reputation of trust and integrity with a loyal client list, including interior designers, private collectors and museums across the globe.
“Hemisphere are proactive, highly professional and helpful, meaning that they can navigate or advise on any challenges that we might have, which lifts the stress when selling to international clients. Moreover, the integrated service means that we can eliminate the complexity of using multiple shippers. They offer competitive rates and a vastly superior service. I would definitely recommend Hemisphere to art galleries looking for a partner that they can trust.”
Nicole Adelman
Gallery Manager, Godson & Coles
Challenge
The search for a trusted supplier
Like all Fine Art shipments, gallery owners need to feel confident that they can entrust their shipments to a business that genuinely cares about the level of service. Our client initially contacted us regarding a piece within a container load that Hemisphere was handling, but having talked to our Antiques Shipping team, was confident that we could also be a trusted partner in this specialist area of logistics.
Our first instruction was to organise a shipment of a stunning piece of work – the import of a Paul Mount sculpture from a New York auction house – and to deliver it to the client’s London premises. This was a complex project encompassing all areas of antiques shipping, but with over 15 years’ experience, we were more than up for the challenge!
Delivery
Due diligence every step of the way
Working with our trusted Fine Art partner in New York, we arranged the release of the piece from the American auction house, collecting it in good time once the instruction was received.
We want our clients to feel in control every step of the way, which is why we go through comprehensive due diligence procedures as a standard part of our service. For example, taking high-quality photographs of the artwork prior to casing. This ensured that the client was made aware of any flaws prior to shipment.
As a full-service logistics provider, we are fully versed in Customs Clearance procedures and as such were easily able to handle the specific requirement to bring the sculpture into London on a temporary admission basis, giving our client the flexibility to either sell or return the piece within two years without incurring additional fees.
Results
End-to-end service reduces supply chain costs
With our prior planning, the Customs entry was completed in a timely manner, and delivery was made two days after the piece landed in London. It was a lovely moment to see the sculpture on display at the Treasure House Fair, shortly afterwards.
As a prestigious art and antique gallery, Godson & Coles has many specialist shipping companies competing for the opportunity to handle its high volume and complex logistics. However, as a direct result of our professionalism and level of service, our client has entrusted Hemisphere with its shipping requirements and we are looking forward to continuing our valued relationship.
“We really value our partnership with Hemisphere. They have made the shipping process incredibly quick and easy and most importantly, they are reliable. Reputation is everything to us; working with the team means that we can guarantee client satisfaction.”
Nicole Adelman
Gallery Manager, Godson & Coles
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