15 Tips For Fine Art Packing and Shipping
Whether you're an artist who is selling your work online or shipping it to a gallery, there are certain things you need to keep in mind when packing and shipping paintings, sculptures, or other fine arts. Here are fifteen tips to help make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
How to Properly Pack and Ship Fine Art
Shipping valuable artwork requires special care and attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your fine art arrives safely at its destination.
Use Quality Packaging Materials
Invest in new, sturdy boxes and high-quality padding materials like bubble wrap and foam. Recycled boxes can be weak or damaged. Prioritize materials that will protect your art from shocks and vibration.
Pad the Inside of Boxes
Line the bottom and sides of boxes with 2-3 inches of packing material. Crumpled paper or foam peanuts allow shifting, so tightly-packed shredded paper or foam is better. Pad each item separately so they don't touch.
Wrap Items Securely
Wrap each piece with a soft protective layer like archival tissue paper before packing. Bubble wrap adds extra cushioning. Secure wrapped items with tape or tie-downs so they don't shift during shipping.
Use Sturdy External Shipping Containers
Double box valuable items for added protection. Place the padded artwork box inside a larger outer box filled with packing material to cushion it. Sturdy wooden crates provide excellent protection for large or heavy pieces.
Label Clearly and Track Shipments
Indicate fragile items with labeling on all sides of boxes and shipping paperwork. Use prominent address labels and include an inventory. Tracking numbers let you monitor progress during transit and confirm delivery.
Insure Valuable Pieces
Purchase insurance to cover replacements costs in case of damage, loss, or theft. Get appraisals of expensive art to accurately value coverage. Select carriers experienced in shipping fine art safely.
Pack Vertically and Evenly Distribute Weight
Pack artwork upright whenever possible to prevent toppling and shifting. Center weight evenly in boxes. Reinforce bottom of boxes to prevent collapsing.
Conclusion
Safe packing requires quality materials, plenty of padding, and secure containment. Precise labeling, tracking, insurance protect valuable art in transit. With appropriate care in packing and shipping, your fine art will arrive in perfect condition.
Recommended: How To Ship Fragile Items
FAQs
How should I pack multiple paintings in one box?
Individually wrap and pad each painting before packing in a single box. Use crumpled paper or bubble wrap to fill empty spaces and prevent rubbing or hitting against each other.
What type of box is best for shipping artwork?
Sturdy double-walled cardboard boxes or strong wooden crates provide the most protection. Make sure boxes are a few inches larger than the art on all sides.
Should I label boxes containing artwork as fragile?
Yes, clearly labeling as “Fragile” alerts carriers to gently handle boxes containing delicate items. Use bold fragile stickers or marking on multiple sides of boxes.
How can I prevent shifting inside boxes during shipping?
Immobilize wrapped art inside boxes by tightly packing shredded paper or foam around pieces so they cannot slide. Secure items with straps or tie-downs when necessary.
What kind of padding should I use?
Bubble wrap, foam, and crumpled paper provide padding. For best protection, use new, clean packing materials that mold securely around objects. Avoid packing peanuts which can shift.
Should I insure valuable artwork for shipping?
Yes, insure for the full replacement value of expensive or sentimental artworks. Get appraisals of high-value pieces when obtaining coverage in case claims are needed.
How do I choose a shipping service for fine art?
Select carriers like FedEx or UPS with specialty art shipping services. Look for climate-controlled transport, white glove delivery, and expertise handling fine art.
