Artwork is a highly personal and valuable possession, whether it’s an original masterpiece or a cherished family portrait. If you need to mail a painting, it’s natural to feel a bit nervous about entrusting your prized possession to a shipping company. However, with a few simple precautions and careful packaging, you can ensure your artwork arrives safely at its destination. In this article, we’ll share some tips and tricks for mailing a painting securely and stress-free.
1. Choose the right shipping company
When it comes to mailing paintings, the first step is to choose a reliable shipping company that specializes in handling artwork. Look for a carrier with experience in handling fragile items and a good track record of safely delivering paintings. Some popular shipping companies for artwork include FedEx, UPS, and USPS. Make sure to compare rates and services carefully, and don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations from other artists or gallery owners.
2. Protect the surface of the painting
The surface of any painting is vulnerable to scratches, dents, and other damage during shipping. To prevent this, it’s important to protect the artwork with a protective covering. Use acid-free glassine paper to wrap the painting, being careful not to press down too hard or rub too vigorously. This paper has a low acidity level, which will prevent the paint from sticking to the surface of the paper. Then cover the painting with a layer of bubble wrap or foam to further safeguard its surface.
3. Reinforce the corners of the painting
The corners of a painting are particularly prone to damage during shipping. To reinforce the corners, use foam or cardboard corner protectors. These are available for purchase from shipping supply stores or you can make your own by cutting out four equal-sized pieces of cardboard and taping them together. Place these protectors securely upside down on all four corners (the sharp edge of the cardboard should face up). This will distribute pressure from any bumps or drops more evenly and prevent damage to the painting’s corners.
4. Wrap the painting in sturdy materials
After the painting is secured, wrap it in a thick layer of bubble wrap, foam, or another sturdy material such as linen or canvas. Use a double layer of wrapping, and make sure to seal it securely with durable packing tape. This will help protect the artwork from any outside bumps or scratches during shipping.
5. Choose a solid shipping crate
The final step is to place the painting in a sturdy shipping crate designed for artwork. Make sure the crate is appropriate in size and strength for your painting and is lined with foam or other cushioning material. Label the crate “FRAGILE” and “THIS SIDE UP” in a prominent location, and add any other pertinent information such as the recipient’s address and your contact information.
6. Choose the right shipping method
When it comes to shipping a painting, you have several options, including ground shipping, air shipping, and even hand delivery. Ground shipping may be the most cost-effective option but may take longer to arrive. Air shipping is faster but more expensive. If you need to deliver your painting quickly, choose an express shipping option. Make sure to choose a shipping method that includes insurance to cover the value of your artwork in case of loss or damage in transit.
7. Consider professional help
If you’re nervous about mailing your painting or don’t feel confident in your packing skills, consider hiring a professional packing and shipping company. These companies specialize in packaging, handling, and shipping artwork and can provide peace of mind that your painting is in good hands. A reputable professional packing and shipping company will offer a variety of packing and shipping options tailored to your needs, including custom crating and white-glove service.
mailing a painting can seem daunting, but with careful preparation, packaging, and a reliable shipping company, you can ensure your artwork arrives at its destination safely and in excellent condition. Remember to take your time and carefully follow each step to protect your valuable possession. And finally, make sure to keep your receipt and tracking information, so you can monitor your artwork’s progress during shipping and know when it has safely arrived at its destination.