Is there a single best way to pack fragile items for shipping? The answer is ‘no’, since different artworks require different approaches to packaging. Yet, some industry standards are rock-solid and can’t be changed. Here is a glimpse of choosing the right packing materials to ensure safe travel for your art.
Surface Protection Materials
Fragile art usually has highly sensitive surfaces, so it has to be packed using clean, non-abrasive protective materials. Archival, unbuffered glassine paper and acid-free tissue paper belong to this category. They work well for paper-based art, prints, and photographs, protecting surfaces from scratches and UV light.
Cushioning and Shock Absorption
This layer of packaging performs the cushioning role of shock absorption. One of the most widely used materials is soft foam, which offers predictable performance and is easily adjusted to the art object’s shape and size.
Wrapping and Padding
The top choice for wrapping and padding is bubble wrap. It is used as a cushioning material, with small-bubble or large-bubble types selected for specific art types. Bubble wrap shouldn’t be perceived as an immobilization material; it only offers light cushioning and prevents rubbing of the artwork during transportation. Other materials that can be used for wrapping include foam wrap or corrugated pads, but these options are less common in professional practice.
Immobilization of Artwork
The final protective layer for fragile artwork is rigid protection and the art object’s immobilization inside the shipping container. Corrugated double-wall cardboard boxes are used for this purpose. Frames, glazed artwork, and canvases are additionally protected with corner protectors to prevent damage. If the art object is very delicate or if it’s prepared for cross-border shipping, its packing also involves a custom-built wooden crate.
We Know the Best Way to Pack Fragile Items for Shipping
If you’re looking for a tried and tested method to ship your art, it makes sense to turn to experts and enjoy end-to-end service quality. We at Fine Art Shippers know everything about the best way to pack fragile items for shipping. That’s why we’re ready to handle art transportation projects of any complexity and scale. Your art will travel safely in our hands, no matter how fragile it is.