Today, we have compiled everything there is to know about the three most popular artwork transportation options — UPS, FedEx, and specialized art shipping services.
Artwork Transportation Across the US: 3 Popular Solutions
UPS
A trusty option for many artists, UPS has definitely earned its reputation as a cost-efficient and reliable shipping service. It is especially popular among beginner artists who want to save money on transporting pieces to their clients. UPS has great customer support and delivers almost anywhere in the US and the world. However, like most transportation options, it also has disadvantages. For example, the larger your parcel is, the more expensive it will be to ship it. Besides, UPS does not specialize in transporting works of fine art and treats all packages the same. That is not to mention that your artwork can get lost, delivered to the wrong address, or damaged.
FedEx
Just like UPS, FedEx is a postal and delivery service. FedEx is also commonly used by artists to ship artworks within the country and overseas. Most of the advantages of using UPS apply to FedEx as well. However, there are still some differences. For example, shipping high-value artworks with FedEx might be an issue due to their insurance policy limitations. Besides, shipping with FedEx is generally more expensive than with UPS, especially if your piece is a larger one. Plus, just like UPS, FedEx will likely not show your artwork “special treatment.”
A professional art shipping service
Professional art logistics companies have been around for ages and have proven that they are the safest option for artists, collectors, and anyone looking to transport a valuable and fragile item. Let’s get one thing out of the way — fine art shipping services are by no means cheaper than regular postal and delivery services. But the cost is justified for several reasons.
First, your piece will be delivered by professional art handlers in a specialized climate-controlled and air-suspended vehicle, reducing the possibility of your artwork getting damaged or lost down to zero. Fine art shipping companies offer both local and international transportation options. For example, Fine Art Shippers can deliver your valuables even to the most remote places in the contiguous United States. In addition to delivery, a specialized art shipping company can pack your artwork and install it upon arrival.
As you can see, there are plenty of options for artwork transportation in the US. Whichever you choose, we hope you can get the best results possible.