How To Ship Framed Art Safely: Expert Tips for Packing and Shipping

Shipping framed art requires careful attention to detail to ensure it arrives at its destination in perfect condition. Can you ship framed art safely? Yes, with the right packing techniques and materials, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage during transit. This guide will walk you through the essential steps and provide expert tips for packing and shipping your valuable artwork.

Preparing Your Artwork for Shipment

Before you even think about boxes and tape, it’s crucial to prepare your framed art properly. This initial step is key to preventing damage.

Assessing the Artwork

First, take a good look at the frame and the artwork itself. Are there any loose parts on the frame? Is the glass or acrylic secure? If anything seems wobbly, address it before packing. A stable frame is less likely to shift and cause problems during transit.

Cleaning and Protecting Surfaces

Gently clean the surface of the artwork and the frame. Use a soft, dry brush to remove any dust from the surface. For the frame, a slightly damp (not wet) microfiber cloth can be used to remove surface grime. For the glass or acrylic, a standard glass cleaner applied to a cloth (not directly to the artwork) is sufficient.

Securing Loose Elements

If your frame has any decorative elements that might be prone to coming loose, consider securing them with a small amount of artist’s tape. This tape is designed to be gentle and won’t leave residue.

Essential Art Packing Supplies

Gathering the right materials is half the battle when shipping framed art. Having a good selection of art packing supplies will make the process smoother and more effective.

The Importance of Quality Materials

Using high-quality materials is paramount. Cheap supplies can fail under pressure, leading to damaged art. Invest in good bubble wrap, sturdy packing tape, and appropriately sized cardboard boxes.

Must-Have Packing Supplies

Bubble Wrap: Essential for cushioning. Opt for large-bubble wrap for maximum protection.
Packing Tape: A strong, wide packing tape is needed to seal boxes securely.
Cardboard Box: The right size and strength are crucial.
Corner Protectors: These are specially designed to protect the corners of the frame.
Glassine Paper or Kraft Paper: For wrapping the surface of the artwork to prevent scuffs.
Padding Material: Foam sheets, packing peanuts, or crumpled paper to fill voids.
Fragile Stickers: Clearly marking your package.
Stapler or Tape Dispenser: For efficient packing.
Measuring Tape: To ensure you have the right size box.

The Step-by-Step Packing Process

Packing framed art correctly involves several layers of protection. Each layer serves a specific purpose in safeguarding your artwork.

Step 1: Surface Protection

The first layer of protection directly contacts the artwork’s surface, usually the glass or acrylic.

Glassine Paper: Wrap the entire front of the artwork, including the frame, in glassine paper. This smooth, non-abrasive paper prevents any potential scratches or scuffs from coming into contact with the frame or the artwork itself.
Bubble Wrap Layer 1: Once covered in glassine, wrap the artwork generously with bubble wrap. Ensure the bubbles are facing outwards. Secure this layer with packing tape, but avoid taping directly onto the artwork or frame.

Step 2: Corner Protection

The corners of a frame are particularly vulnerable to impact.

Cardboard Corner Protectors: Place specialized cardboard corner protectors over each corner of the wrapped artwork. These are usually L-shaped pieces that fit snugly. You can also create your own by cutting and folding sturdy cardboard.

Step 3: Additional Cushioning

This layer adds another buffer against shocks and vibrations.

Second Bubble Wrap Layer: Wrap the entire piece again with bubble wrap. This second layer provides an extra cushion and helps to distribute any impact force. Again, secure with packing tape, ensuring a tight but not crushing seal.

Step 4: Creating a Protective Buffer Zone

A buffer zone around the artwork is vital.

Foam Padding or Cardboard Sheets: Place the wrapped artwork inside a slightly larger cardboard box (or create a custom box if needed). Line the inside of this box with foam sheets or sturdy cardboard. This creates a buffer between the artwork and the outer box.

Step 5: The Inner Box

This is the primary protective container.

Secure Placement: Carefully place the padded artwork into a cardboard box that is just slightly larger than the artwork itself. Ensure there’s enough room for padding but not so much that the artwork can shift around excessively.
Filling Voids: Fill any remaining gaps within the box with crumpled paper, packing peanuts, or foam inserts. The goal is to prevent any movement whatsoever. The artwork should feel snug and secure within its inner container.

Step 6: The Outer Box

This is the final layer of defense.

Double Boxing: For maximum protection, especially for valuable or delicate pieces, double boxing is highly recommended. This means placing the first, packed box (containing the artwork) inside a larger cardboard box.
Padding the Outer Box: Fill the space between the inner and outer boxes with ample cushioning material. This creates a significant buffer against impacts.
Sealing the Outer Box: Seal all seams and flaps of the outer box securely with strong packing tape. Use plenty of tape to ensure the box remains closed during transit.

Shipping Framed Art: What You Need to Know

Now that your artwork is packed, it’s time to consider the shipping process itself.

Choosing the Right Shipping Carriers

Several shipping carriers offer services for art, but not all are equally suited for handling delicate items.

Major Carriers: Companies like FedEx, UPS, and USPS can be used, but it’s essential to understand their policies regarding artwork and declare its value.
Specialty Art Shippers: For highly valuable or extremely fragile pieces, consider using companies that specialize in art transport. These services often offer more careful handling and specialized packing solutions, including custom crating.

Domestic Shipping vs. International Shipping

The process differs slightly depending on whether you are shipping within your country or abroad.

Domestic Shipping

Service Levels: Most carriers offer various service levels (e.g., ground, express). For artwork, ground shipping is often preferred as it involves fewer transfers, reducing the risk of mishandling.
Tracking: Always opt for a shipping service that includes tracking so you can monitor the package’s progress.

International Shipping

Customs and Duties: Be aware of customs regulations, duties, and taxes in the destination country. Proper documentation is crucial.
Crating for International Transit: For international shipping, especially for long distances and multiple handling points, custom crating might be a necessary investment. A wooden crate offers superior protection.
Insurance: Ensure your shipping insurance is adequate for the value of the artwork.

The Crucial Role of Shipping Insurance

Shipping insurance is not optional when shipping artwork. It’s a vital safeguard against unforeseen events.

Declaring Value: Accurately declare the value of your artwork when purchasing shipping insurance. This value should be based on the replacement cost or market value.
Coverage Details: Read the policy carefully to understand what is covered and what exclusions apply. Some policies may have specific requirements for packing and documentation.
Documentation: Keep all receipts for packing materials and proof of the artwork’s value, as these may be required if you need to file a claim.

Labeling Your Package

Proper labeling ensures your package reaches its destination and is handled with care.

Clear Addressing: Ensure the shipping and return addresses are clearly printed and affixed securely to the box.
Fragile Stickers: Affix multiple “fragile stickers” on all sides of the box. While not a guarantee, they serve as a visual reminder to handlers.
Orientation Labels: If the artwork has a specific upright orientation, use “This Way Up” or “Handle With Care” labels.

When to Consider Custom Crating

For exceptionally valuable, large, or historically significant pieces, standard boxing might not be sufficient. This is where custom crating comes into play.

Benefits of Custom Crating

Maximum Protection: Wooden crates are built to withstand significant impacts and environmental changes. They offer superior structural integrity compared to cardboard boxes.
Tailored Fit: Custom crates are built to the exact dimensions of the artwork, often with internal bracing and custom-fit foam padding, minimizing any possibility of movement.
Professional Handling: Many art shipping specialists offer custom crating as part of their services, ensuring professional packing and handling from start to finish.

When is Crating Necessary?

High Value: If the artwork is worth a substantial amount, the investment in a crate is often justifiable.
Fragile Materials: Pieces made with delicate materials, antique frames, or those with external components benefit from the robust protection of a crate.
International Shipping: As mentioned, for long-distance international shipping, a crate significantly increases the chances of safe arrival.
Unusual Sizes or Shapes: If the artwork is exceptionally large, heavy, or has an irregular shape, a custom crate is often the most practical and secure solution.

Table: Packing Material Checklist

Material	Purpose	Notes
Glassine Paper	Protects artwork surface from scratches and scuffs.	Use to wrap the front of the artwork and frame.
Large-Bubble Wrap	Provides primary cushioning.	Wrap generously; ensure bubbles face outward.
Corner Protectors	Shields vulnerable frame corners from impact.	Essential for preventing damage to the most susceptible areas.
Sturdy Cardboard Box	The primary container for the artwork.	Choose a box slightly larger than the artwork for padding. Double boxing is recommended.
Kraft Paper/Newsprint	Fills voids and adds extra cushioning.	Crumple to create a soft barrier.
Packing Peanuts	Fills empty spaces to prevent shifting.	Best used in conjunction with other padding methods.
Foam Sheets/Padding	Creates a buffer zone within the box or between inner/outer boxes.	Provides additional shock absorption.
Strong Packing Tape	Seals all boxes and seams securely.	Do not skimp on tape; ensure all edges are well-sealed.
Fragile Stickers	Alerts handlers to the delicate nature of the contents.	Apply liberally to all sides of the box.
Permanent Marker	For clear addressing and labeling.	Ensure labels are legible and won’t smudge.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How much does it cost to ship framed art?

The cost varies significantly based on the artwork’s size, weight, value, destination, and the shipping services you choose. Shipping insurance and specialized packing (like crating) will also add to the overall cost.

Can I ship a mirror the same way I ship framed art?

Yes, the packing methods for mirrors are very similar to those for framed art. Mirrors, like framed artwork, have a fragile surface that needs protection and corners that are prone to damage. Ensure the glass is well-secured and use ample cushioning.

What if my artwork is unframed?

Shipping unframed art is generally simpler, but it still requires careful protection. Roll unframed prints or canvases in glassine paper, then in bubble wrap, and place them in a sturdy mailing tube. Ensure the ends of the tube are well-padded and sealed.

Do I need to insure artwork shipped domestically?

While not always legally required, it is highly recommended to get shipping insurance for domestic shipping of artwork, especially if it holds significant value. Accidents can happen even with reputable shipping carriers.

How do I choose the right size cardboard box?

The ideal cardboard box should be about 2-3 inches larger than the artwork on all sides (length, width, and depth). This space allows for adequate padding on all surfaces, including the corners and sides, which is crucial for preventing damage.

By following these expert tips, you can confidently pack and ship your framed art, ensuring it arrives at its destination safely and in the condition it left. Remember, careful preparation and quality materials are your best allies in protecting your valuable pieces during transit.