Selling art is more than completing a transaction — it is ensuring that your artwork reaches its new home safely and professionally. Below you will find a simple, reliable guide on how to package and ship your artwork with confidence.

1. Packaging Your Artwork

Proper packaging is essential to protect your artwork during transport. Whether you are sending a painting, a drawing, or another type of artwork, the goal is the same: secure protection against impact, pressure, moisture, and movement.

Recommended Packaging Steps

• Use acid-free paper or glassine to cover the artwork surface.
• Protect edges with corner protectors.
• Wrap the artwork in bubble wrap (multiple layers recommended).
• Place the wrapped work in a sturdy cardboard box or double-box system for extra safety.
• Ensure no empty spaces remain inside the box — fill gaps with soft packing material to prevent shifting.

All packaging materials can be easily purchased at art supply stores, stationery shops, or hardware stores.

2. Choosing a Shipping Method

Once your package is ready, choose a shipping method that suits your needs.

General Tips

• Use a trackable shipping option so both you and the buyer can monitor the delivery.
• Compare prices between different courier services to find the best option for size, weight, and destination.

• For high-value artworks, consider using a shipping service that offers insurance.

   

Specialized Art Transport

Some logistics companies specialize in fine art handling and transportation. These companies are ideal for high-value artworks but can be costly for emerging or independent artists. For most cases, standard courier services combined with correct packaging offer a safe and economical solution.

Below are general packing tips to ensure your artwork arrives in perfect condition:

1. Use strong, protective materials

• Bubble wrap, foam sheets, corner protectors

• Thick, sturdy cardboard or a double-boxed system

• Acid-free paper for works on paper

2. Secure the artwork

• Wrap the artwork in multiple layers

• Protect the corners carefully

• Fill empty spaces inside the box to prevent movement

3. Avoid glass when possible

If your artwork is framed with glass, cover it with masking tape in a cross-pattern and add extra padding. Alternatively, remove the glass before shipping if possible.

4. Follow trusted packing guides

Many postal and courier companies provide general instructions for packing fragile items. These can be applied successfully to most artworks.

3. Shipping Internationally

If you are shipping abroad:

• check the courier’s regulations regarding artwork,
• declare the contents accurately for customs,
• inform the buyer about potential customs fees or delays.