Shipping fine art requires careful preparation to ensure your valuable pieces arrive safely. Whether you're a gallery owner, collector, or artist, proper packing is essential. Here's our professional guide based on over 15 years of experience in museum-quality art shipping.

Essential Materials You'll Need

Basic Packing Materials:

• Acid-free tissue paper or glassine
• Bubble wrap (large bubble, non-static)
• Corner protectors (foam or cardboard)
• Packing tape (clear, high-quality)
• Cardboard or foam core sheets
• Sturdy corrugated boxes or custom crates
• "Fragile" and "This Side Up" labels

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Document the Artwork

Before packing, photograph your artwork from multiple angles. Document any existing damage, condition issues, or unique characteristics. This creates a record for insurance purposes and helps verify the artwork's condition upon arrival.

2. Create a Protective Barrier

Start with a layer of acid-free tissue paper or glassine directly against the artwork's surface. This prevents moisture damage and provides a gentle first layer of protection.

Important: Never let bubble wrap touch the painted surface directly, especially for oil paintings. The texture can transfer to wet or sensitive paint.

3. Protect Corners and Edges

Frame corners are particularly vulnerable. Use foam corner protectors or create custom protection with cardboard. Ensure all four corners are well-padded before wrapping the entire piece.

4. Wrap with Bubble Wrap

After the protective tissue layer, wrap the artwork in bubble wrap. Use at least two layers, ensuring complete coverage. Secure with packing tape, but never tape directly to the frame or artwork.

5. Create a Protective Sandwich

Place cardboard or foam core sheets on both the front and back of the wrapped artwork. This creates a rigid "sandwich" that prevents bending and provides impact protection. Secure with tape around the edges.

6. Box or Crate Selection

Choose a box at least 3-4 inches larger than your wrapped artwork on all sides. Fill the extra space with packing peanuts, foam, or crumpled paper. The artwork should not move when the box is closed and shaken gently.

Special Considerations

Canvas Paintings

Protect the front surface with glassine. Avoid pressure on the canvas itself. Consider removing from stretcher bars for large pieces.

Framed Pieces with Glass

Tape an "X" across the glass with painter's tape to prevent shattering. Consider glass-free travel frames for valuable pieces.

Sculptures

Custom crating is often essential. Wrap protruding elements separately. Use foam inserts to prevent movement.

Antiques & Collectibles

Document provenance and condition. Use archival materials. Consider climate-controlled shipping for sensitive pieces.

When to Use Professional Services

While DIY packing works for small, sturdy pieces, professional packing and custom crating are recommended for:

• Artwork valued over $5,000
• Large pieces (over 48 inches in any dimension)
• Fragile or antique items
• International shipments
• Museum or gallery loans
• Pieces requiring climate control

Need Expert Help?

Austin Crate & Freight provides museum-quality packing, custom crating, and climate-controlled transport for fine art throughout Central Texas and beyond.

Call (512) 240-9818 Get Free Quote

Final Checklist

Artwork photographed and documented
Protected with acid-free materials
Corners and edges protected
Multiple layers of padding applied
Box properly sized with void fill
Labels applied (Fragile, This Side Up)
Insurance arranged

How to Prepare Artwork for Shipping