The Ultimate Guide To Shipping Framed Art
shipping framed art can be a nerve-wracking experience, especially if you’re sending off a valuable or sentimental piece. However, with the right knowledge and materials, you can ensure that your artwork arrives at its destination safe and sound. In this article, we’ll break down the steps you need to take to properly pack and ship framed art.
1. Gather the Right Materials
Before you start packing your framed art, make sure you have all the necessary materials on hand. You will need a sturdy cardboard box that is larger than the frame, bubble wrap, packing peanuts, packing tape, and corner protectors. You can purchase all of these materials at your local shipping store or online.
2. Prepare Your Artwork
Before you start packing your framed art, make sure to remove any hanging hardware such as nails or hooks. Then, use a piece of masking tape to create an “X” over the glass to prevent it from shattering in transit. If your framed art has glass, you can also purchase glassine paper to wrap the piece in for extra protection.
3. Wrap Your Artwork
Start by wrapping your framed art in a layer of bubble wrap, making sure to cover all sides of the frame. You can secure the bubble wrap with packing tape to keep it in place. Next, add a layer of cardboard around the frame to provide extra protection. Make sure to secure the cardboard with packing tape to keep it from moving during transit.
4. Use Corner Protectors
Corner protectors are essential for protecting the corners of your framed art during shipping. Place a corner protector on each corner of the frame to prevent any damage from occurring. You can purchase corner protectors made specifically for artwork at most shipping stores.
5. Pack the Box
Once your framed art is securely wrapped and protected, it’s time to pack it in the box. Fill the bottom of the box with packing peanuts to provide a cushion for your artwork. Then, carefully place your framed art in the box and fill any remaining spaces with packing peanuts to ensure that it doesn’t shift during transit.
6. Seal the Box
After your framed art is securely packed in the box, seal it with packing tape. Make sure to reinforce the seams of the box with extra tape to prevent it from coming apart during shipping. Label the box with clear instructions such as “fragile” or “handle with care” to alert the carrier to the delicate nature of the contents.
7. Choose a Reliable Shipping Carrier
When it comes to shipping framed art, it’s important to choose a reliable shipping carrier that specializes in handling delicate items. Fedex, UPS, and USPS all offer shipping services for artwork, but you may also want to consider using a specialty art shipping company for valuable pieces.
8. Insure Your Artwork
Before you ship your framed art, consider purchasing insurance to protect it in case of damage or loss. Most shipping carriers offer insurance options for valuable items, so make sure to inquire about this when you drop off your package.
9. Track Your Shipment
Once your framed art is on its way, make sure to track its progress online using the tracking number provided by your shipping carrier. This will allow you to see where your package is in real-time and ensure that it arrives at its destination on time.
In conclusion, shipping framed art doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By following these steps and taking the necessary precautions, you can ensure that your artwork arrives safely and in pristine condition. Remember to gather the right materials, wrap your artwork securely, use corner protectors, pack the box with care, choose a reliable shipping carrier, insure your artwork, and track your shipment. With a little preparation and attention to detail, you can send off your framed art with confidence knowing that it will arrive at its destination safe and sound.