Art is a precious commodity, and shipping it can be a stressful experience. Correctly packing and shipping artwork is crucial to ensure it arrives safely and undamaged at its destination. Whether it is a large oil painting, delicate watercolor, or delicate papier-mâché sculpture, the right approach to packing can drastically reduce the risk of breakage or damage during transit. In this guide, we will outline the best practices for packing paintings for shipping.
Protecting the Painting
The first step in any successful art shipment is protecting the painting. Wrap the painting in a layer of glassine paper or acid-free tissue paper to prevent any contact between the painting and other brochures, framing materials, or any other materials that may cause damage during transit. If the painting is unframed, insert spacers between the sides of the painting and the shell of the crate or container. These spacers keep the painting from touching the sides of the container and protect it from shock and vibration.
If the painting is layered with a protective glass or plexiglass covering, place blue painter’s tape over it to stabilize the paintings. This will hold the glass if it should break during shipping, preventing it from shattering and creating additional damage. If the painting has been covered in a varnish, wait a week after it has been applied to let it completely harden before packing it.
Finding the Right Container
The next step in packing paintings for shipping is finding the right container. Choose a crate or container that is sturdy and strong enough to hold the painting, especially for large or heavy pieces. The container should be firm and secure enough to prevent movement or sliding. Bubble wraps can be used to fill in the remaining spaces between the painting and container edges.
If possible, use a custom-made shipping container or crate that perfectly fits the dimensions of the artwork. Custom crates provide the most secure way of protecting artwork during shipment. If it is not practical to use a custom-made container, use a standard container, and pad the inside to ensure that the painting does not move during transit.
Additional Protective Measures
Once the painting is secured in the container, take additional protective measures to ensure the safety of the artwork. Place a layer of foam or bubble wrap between the painting and the container’s walls. This additional layer of padding will absorb any shock or vibration that the container may encounter during shipment.
If the painting is valuable and fragile, it may be important to add an extra layer of protection, such as plywood, to the front and back sides of the container. Plywood can be attached securely to the container to create an extra barrier between the painting and any potential damage.
Labeling and Insurance
Before shipping, it is important to label the container correctly. Ensure that all the details on the shipping label, such as your name, address, and tracking numbers, are correct and legible. Also, label the container as “Fragile” or “Handle with Care” to alert handlers that the package requires special attention.
Finally, insure the artwork before shipping it. Art can be costly, so it is worth the investment to insure the painting for the full value. Ensure that the policy adequately covers the artwork, shipping, handling, and any other costs related to the shipping process.
In conclusion, packing paintings for shipping requires a little bit of time and effort, but it is worth it to avoid damage or loss. By protecting the painting, finding the right container, taking additional protective measures, labeling the container correctly, and insuring the artwork, you can ensure that your artwork arrives safely and undamaged at its final destination. With these guidelines, you should feel confident about sending your precious artwork to any corner of the world.