Artists and art dealers frequently have to ship delicate pieces, whether because of a sale, relocation, or the like. However, all art is precious, and the thought of sending a fragile art piece through the mail can induce anxiety. Use this quick shipping guide to properly prepare your package for safe, unscathed delivery.

Use Sturdy Boxes or Containers

Begin by selecting a high-quality box or container that isn’t likely to dent or break open during transit. Double-wall corrugated cardboard boxes or custom-built wooden crates are two appropriate options.

The size of the package should accommodate your artwork while leaving some space for protective materials, which we’ll discuss below. Oversized or incorrectly sized containers might let your art piece shift and break in transport. When you invest in strong packaging, you build the foundation for safe shipping.

Individually Wrap Art Pieces

Even if your art piece does move around in its box, you want to make sure that bumping into things won’t damage it. That’s why you should individually wrap each piece.

Use acid-free tissue paper or foam for delicate surfaces, such as paintings or prints. For sculptures, bubble wrap offers excellent protection by cushioning sharp edges or projecting parts.

Seal whatever wrapping you choose with tape to ensure the material stays in place. Layer your wrapping if additional protection is necessary.

Use Void Fill

Once you’ve wrapped your art piece and have an appropriately sized box ready to go, it’s time to address void fill. Void fill is any kind of cushioning material that occupies empty space in the container, preventing the items inside from getting thrown around. Here are some examples of popular void fill:

• packing peanuts
• foam inserts
• crumpled paper
• air pillows

You should position your art piece so that the void fill material surrounds it completely. Be thorough—every corner, edge, and side of your package should be supported.

Label the Package Correctly

It is so important to properly code and mark packages since it lets carriers know how to correctly transfer and handle your shipment. Clearly label your package with “FRAGILE” to make handlers aware of the contents. Use prominent text or stickers on all sides of the box. Include any specific handling instructions such as “This Side Up” or “Do Not Drop.”

Beyond the handling labels, write your return address and recipient’s details legibly to avoid delivery mistakes. Correct labeling increases the likelihood that your package will receive the careful attention it deserves during its journey.

Partner With Careful Carriers

Some shipping carriers are more careful than others. When it comes to your art pieces, never take chances. Choose carriers with a reputation for handling fragile items well and offering tracking services. Consider partnering with specialized art carriers or courier services that cater specifically to shipping fragile art pieces.

Insurance is also an excellent investment, as it provides coverage in case of damage. When you partner with professionals who understand your unique needs, you can ship artwork with confidence.

It can be scary to let a beautiful piece of art out of your hands and trust a third party with its proper handling. However, it’s sometimes inevitable, and proper preparation on your end will go a long way in ensuring your artwork arrives at its destination safely. Artists pour their passion into every piece they create, and these steps protect that effort during transit.