A framed painting is a fragile object that requires delicate and responsible handling. Some people erroneously believe that framing is sufficient protection on its own and often fail to pack the framed works of art properly. Others waste lots of time and effort to prepare framed art for shipping but do it all wrong. In this blog post, we list the most common mistakes people make when handling framed art and provide hands-on advice on how to ship a framed painting safely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Shipping Framed Art
Below, you can find the most common mistakes people often make when preparing framed art for shipping.
Not Knowing the Packing Requirements
Different shipping companies may have their own requirements for framed art packing. Check the official website of the selected company or call them to find specific guidelines on how to ship a framed painting and what preparatory steps are needed in your case.
Using Unsuitable Packing Materials
Shipping framed art, especially large pieces, can be expensive, so it’s understandable that people want to save money by using simple packing materials available in any home. However, there is a reason why these are not always suitable. Regular paper or bubble wrap is simply not enough to eliminate the risk of accidental damage during transportation. We recommend using acid-free materials, cardboard or foam corner protectors, masking tape, and foam boards for optimal packing.
Not Documenting the Artwork’s Condition Before Transportation
Another common mistake is failing to take photos of the art object and describe pre-existing damage (if there’s any). This may make it hard to make an insurance claim if the object gets damaged during shipping.
How to Ship a Framed Painting Safely
Many things can go wrong if you do not take fine art shipping seriously. There is a high risk of damage during transportation if you don’t pack the object correctly. However, shipping is much more than proper packing, as you also need to take care of the insurance and choose a reliable shipping company. These steps are particularly important for art collectors who own rare, extremely valuable pieces of art, as well as art owners who ship internationally.
The longer and the more challenging the route, the greater care needs to be provided every step of the way, from packing to shipping to storage. If you need professional assistance with shipping framed art, contact our team for more details about our services.