Shipping fine art of any kind requires the right resources and sufficient experience. It’s not enough to simply slide the piece into a box with a bit of padding. Artwork is delicate by design, and even the slightest mishandling could result in irreparable damage. Whether you’re shipping one of your own pieces or want to purchase something and make sure it arrives safely, it’s imperative to make sure it’s properly packaged. Here’s what you should know.  

How to Handle Shipping Fine Art

What Are the Most Important Factors?

The safety of your fine art is paramount. It should arrive in great condition — and that’s only possible if it’s properly packed for transport. The goal is to protect it while it’s in transit and ensure that the frame and integrity of the piece remain intact. Bear in mind that shipping fine art requires extensive care and attention. Taking the time to package it properly will make all the difference. Bear in mind, too, that most carriers have shipping restrictions based on size. Make sure that your chosen carrier will accept the package.

What Do You Need to Ship Artwork?

You’ll need more than cardboard boxes and tape to ship your fine artwork. It’s worth visiting a packaging store for a box that’s appropriately sized; choosing the right dimensions will help protect the piece. You’ll also need bubble wrap, pallet wrap, packing tape, and “fragile” stickers to mark the boxes. The palette wrap is ideal for preventing surface scratches, while bubble wrap creates a barrier between the box and the art. You can also ask your packaging supplier for some protective cardboard if you want to add an extra layer.

Do Common Packing Procedures Apply?

Shipping fine art is not like shipping other items. There should be minimal space between the box and the art itself; this will prevent the piece from jostling around. Additionally, you don’t want the bubble wrap to touch the artwork — it can easily adhere to the materials and cause damage. Avoid using packing peanuts, as these typically aren’t sufficient for protecting the piece. Finally, it’s best to use a new or like-new box for maximum support.

Box Stop is the leading source for packaging and shipping in Lexington, KY. If you’re planning on shipping fine art, you can trust these skilled professionals to handle the job with expertise and precision. They have all of the materials needed to properly package the item, and they will ensure that it arrives at its destination safely and in excellent condition. With more than 200 different boxes available, the company can comfortably ship any of your artwork anywhere in the world, using a variety of different providers. Visit their website for details, or call them at (859) 271-2393.