When you’re packing larger frames, add 2 more strips of tape to make a star-shaped pattern on the glass for additional protection.
Glassine paper is acid-free, and it helps prevent any damage to the surface of your artwork. You don’t have to completely cover the back of your artwork with glassine. Tape the glassine paper to itself on the folds in the corners so the tape doesn’t stick to your artwork. If the adhesive gets stuck on the frame or canvas, you could damage it when you take the tape off.
In a pinch, you can cut down a garbage bag to wrap around your artwork instead.
The corners should hold tightly on their own, but tape them to the plastic sheeting if they wobble or feel loose.
The cardboard or foam helps protect your art from any punctures that could break through the box during transit. Put an extra layer of cardboard around the corners since this is where damage most likely occurs.
Bubble wrap helps cushion your artwork so it doesn’t get damaged if it gets jostled around.
Many courier services have shipping boxes you can buy at their offices, but you can also find them at a hardware store. If you can’t find a box that’s exactly the size you need, get the next largest size and stuff the excess space with more bubble wrap. If there’s too much space in the box, your art will shift around and could get damaged.
Put on white cotton gloves when you handle your artwork so you don’t leave prints or damage on it. Tape the corners of the glassine paper where the folds overlap each other rather than taping paper directly to the print. The tape might rip your art if there’s tape stuck to it when someone unwraps the glassine.
The cardboard keeps your artwork flat so it doesn’t bend or crease when you mail it.
The bubble wrap helps pad the box or envelope and can also prevent puncture damage.
If there’s extra space inside of the box after putting in your artwork, stuff the sides with extra bubble wrap.
Craft paper is acid-free, so it won’t damage or leave marks on your artwork when you pack it. Wear a pair white cotton gloves when you handle your art so you don’t smudge or leave prints on it.
You don’t need to tape the wax paper since it’ll stay in place once you roll the piece up.
Take your time as you’re rolling it up and avoid pushing down too hard so you don’t crease your artwork.
You can use crumpled paper if you don’t have any bubble wrap.
It’s okay if the artwork touches the sides of the tube or if there’s space in the middle of the rolled artwork. Since the artwork is rolled and the tube is sturdy, you don’t need to fill the tube in.
You can also print off the address and tape it onto the box or tube you’re using if you want something more legible. Remember to include your return address so the recipient can reach you.
If you’re sending a framed piece, write “Glass” next to the fragile sticker so the delivery people and recipient know to be extra careful.
The United States Postal Service is usually the cheapest option, but you cannot have any packages that are heavier than 70 pounds (32 kg) or larger than 108 in (270 cm) in total length and girth. [21] X Research source UPS or FedEx are both reliable options that are a little more expensive, but offer additional tracking and insurance on your packages. Both UPS and FedEx have weight limits of 150 pounds (68 kg). If you have an oversized, antique, or expensive piece of art, contact a fine art shipping service since they can help you safely pack and deliver your art.
Some courier services have limits on how much you can insure per package. You can also talk to your current homeowner insurance provider to see if you can add shipping insurance to your policy.
