Tips Artists Need to Know When Shipping Their Artwork

As an artist, shipping artwork is one of the most important parts of the selling process. You need to make sure it is delivered safely so the people who commissioned you or bought from you are satisfied. However, this can be quite a challenge.

Online platforms some of the best ways an artist can sell their works online. However, there might be times when a potential buyer might live in another country, further complicating the shipping process.

Until the artwork is in the buyer’s possession, it is your responsibility to ensure it reaches them intact. To help you ensure the safety of your artwork, here are a few tips you need to know when shipping your artwork:

Have the Exact Measurements of Your Artwork

The first step you need to take when shipping your artwork is to take the exact measurements. Measure its dimensions, size, height, width, and weight. Make sure to calculate everything properly.

Measuring your artwork will help you determine the appropriate kind of packaging you need for. You don’t want to use packaging that will not protect and might even damage the artwork during the shipping process.

Pick an Appropriate Container for Shipping

For shipping both large unframed and framed artworks, you can use a wooden crate. You can build your own once you’ve already calculated the right measurements, or you can ask a packaging professional to do the job for you.

If the artwork is not too big, you can use a thick box with a lot of safety padding inside. Ensure that there is no unnecessary movement in the box, even if it is being carried or moved. Moreover, you can use mirror boxes, which are perfect for framed and mounted artworks.

Make Sure that the Work Surface is Secured

Just like how you protect your artwork while working on it, you must also treat the workspace gently while it ships. You can use protective foam, bubble wrap, cardboard, or any cloth that will protect the artwork from scrapes and scratches.

For unframed artwork: Wrap the canvas with glassine paper or plastic pallet wrap. Make sure that every side and edge is covered and protected. This will prevent the canvas from dust and moisture. Also, you can use painter’s tape to keep it together.

For framed artwork: As much as possible, you don’t want the glass to be damaged in any way. Use painter’s tape on the surface, and then apply it in a star pattern. You can also wrap it with plastic wrap.

Prepare the Documents for Customs

If you’re shipping internationally, it’s most likely that you’ll deal with customs, taxes, and more. If you’re an independent artist handling the delivery processes, make sure that you have all the documents needed. Do your research, educate yourself about the relevant regulations in the recipient’s country, and prepare all of the necessary documents.

Conclusion

Delivering artworks safely is one of the most important responsibilities of an artist. Before the buyer gets ahold of the artwork, the artist’s job is to protect the piece, prevent it from becoming damaged, and ensure that the shipping process goes smoothly.

Artists may have a hard time packaging their artworks without the right materials. That is when a professional can help them. 1 Stop Pack N Ship specializes in moving fine art. We ship and move any kinds of items, both local and international, and provide packaging services! Call us for more information.