KLM Flying Dutchman - Carrying framed photographs on KLM - Bangalore to Amsterdam

Hey all,

I wanted to know if there would be any issues with customs if I am carrying framed photographs [7 photos, totally 7kgs] as part of my check in baggage for a friend? I'm traveling from Bangalore to Amsterdam on Friday.

Anyone here who has taken framed photos as check-in baggage on an international flight?

Please let me know.

Thanks!

Ashok

Having taken frames onboard from outside shengen to AMS, I know there's quite a fair chance you'll be subject to control at the customs after the baggage belts.

No problem for checkin, the airport just added a few stickers "fragile".
For the customs, they asked for the value of it and a bill, and if above 430 euros, it will be taxed (at a reduced rate as it is art). That's what happened to me a few years ago. Seeing how even more eager they are nowadays to get some money, just go directly declare your frames to the customs (if value above 430 euros). Don't forget if you bring other things for yourself from outside eu, their value will be added to the value of the frames.

Just a little more info, if there are seven frames, all values lets say a hundred euros, you'll be taxed only for three frames, and not for the first 4 valued in total at 400.
It's all explained on the website of the customs, http://www.douane.nl

If they are checked-in, then of course there will be no issue. But bear in mind that they would need to be packed very well to ensure that a) the glass does not break, and b) that if glass does break, it will not fall out of the package.

It would be a different story if you meant to bring them as carry-on luggage. As long as the photographs don't exceed the maximum dimensions for carry-on luggage (1 bag measuring 55 x 25 x 35 cm (21.5 x 10 x 13.5 inch) (l x w x h) in Economy Class) they should be OK as cabin luggage, too (as long as they are all placed in one bag, rather than being carried loose).

Thanks so much for the help Yno and Irishguy. Much appreciated!

Yno, just received word that the frames [bought by another friend] cost Euro300 and will be carrying a scanned bill. Just to be on the safe side

Irishguy, thankfully the frames don't have glass and don't exceed the maximum dimensions :)

Regards,
Ashok

For general future reference:

Glass frames may be refused as carry on luggage (some types of shattered glass can be very sharp and pose a security threat).
Simply wrap them very well, and make sure they can not touch any hard surfaces directly in your luggage. Use for example the bubbly plastic stuff, and place them between towels and clothes or such) and you'll be fine. I had fragile items in my checked luggage several times and it always went fine.