How To Ship Art Prints Safely & Successfully (2024 Ultimate Guide)
Have you ever stood in a post office, clutching a precious art print, wondering how to ship art prints safely without damaging them?
If you’ve ever been in such a situation, you know the anxiety that comes with the fear of your artwork arriving damaged.
Shipping art prints isn't just about sticking a stamp on a tube and hoping for the best.
It's an art in itself.
From selecting the right packaging materials to understanding the nuances of postal insurance, there's a lot to consider.
In this guide we’ll go through the art shipping process, to help you learn how your art prints can reach their destination just as pristine as they left.
How To Ship Art Prints Without Damaging Them?
Shipping Art Prints in a Flat Envelope
Prep the Artwork
Start by cleaning the art print, ensuring no dust or debris might scratch the surface during transit.
For optimal protection, wrap the print in a clear, archival-quality plastic sleeve. This safeguards it against moisture and fingerprints.
Get a Sturdy Envelope & Protect the Art With Additional Padding
Choose a hard-backed envelope that's slightly larger than your print.
A common mix-up occurs with sizing—too large, and the print may slide; too snug, and edges might bend. For additional padding, insert a piece of thick cardboard on either side of the art print.
Cardboard corners, fitting over each corner of the print, provide an extra level of safeguarding.
Secure the Artwork
The next important thing is to secure your artwork.
Adhesive photo corners are tremendously helpful. These allow the print to stay secure without direct contact with the adhesive, preventing potential damage.
Add Identification & Offer Instructions
Include a slip inside the envelope detailing the art print's title, your name, and contact information in case the envelope is misplaced.
Also, print clear handling instructions—"Do not bend" or "Fragile" on the outer envelope to alert handlers of the delicate content inside.
Properly Seal the Envelope
Use pressure-sensitive adhesive tape to seal the envelope.
Avoid using staples or paper clips as they can tear the envelope and damage the contents.
Shipping Art Prints in a Mailing Tube
Prep the Art Print
Like with flat envelopes, ensure your print is clean and secure in a protective, archival-quality plastic sleeve.
This is crucial for protecting against dust and moisture during the shipping process.
Get a Suitable Mailing Tube
Opt for a tube that's sturdy and the right size.
The diameter should allow the print to roll without excessive curling—too tight could damage the paper structure.
Carefully Roll the Artwork & Secure It
Roll the artwork around a piece of thicker paper or a thin foam roll for additional support.
Secure the rolled print with a piece of tape, but ensure it doesn’t touch the art directly. Use removable painter's tape if necessary.
Place It in the Tube & Seal It Adequately
Once rolled properly, the art print should slide into the tube comfortably—not too tight, not too loose.
Packing peanuts or bubble wrap can fill excess space and prevent the print from bouncing around inside.
Label & Address the Mailing Tube
Clearly label the tube with the destination address and return address.
Just like with flat envelopes, marking the container with "Fragile: Handle With Care" informs handlers of the need for careful transportation.
Shipping art prints involves meticulous attention to detail to ensure they arrive in pristine condition. Leveraging suitable materials and following the steps above, I've managed to send prints globally without damage.
Simple precautions in preparation and packaging can make a significant difference in the safe transit of art prints.
Additional Tips for Shipping Art Prints
Don't Leave Extra Space
Ensuring prints arrive in pristine condition often hinges on how they're secured within the packaging.
For both flat envelopes and mailing tubes, it’s critical to prevent any movement that could cause wear or indentations.
In my experience, using soft, acid-free tissue paper acts as a great buffer, conforming to the shape of the art and filling out any remaining spaces without adding significant weight.
Test by gently shaking the sealed package; you shouldn’t hear the print moving inside if it’s packed correctly.
Invest in Insurance
Shipping art prints isn't just about proper packaging and labeling; it's also about protecting your financial investment.
Considering the hours that go into creating each piece, not to mention the potential retail value, shipping insurance is a small price to pay for peace of mind.
Most shipping services offer insurance options based on the declared value of the item.
This is especially worthwhile when shipping internationally or when the artwork is irreplaceable. Insurance claims might require proof of the item's value and condition before shipping, so keeping good records and photographic evidence of your artwork pre-shipment is vital.
Ensure That the Label Provides Up-To-Date Information
In the age of digital communication, overlooking something as simple as an outdated address can be easier than you think.
Double-checking the recipient’s address and your return address on the shipping label is essential.
Always confirm these details directly with the customer through email to avoid any mistakes.
Also, if the print is time-sensitive, such as for an exhibition or a gift, including a mobile number can be a lifesaver for last-minute coordination with courier services.
Clear, easy-to-read shipping labels prevent delays, ensuring your art reaches its destination as intended.
We Ship Our Art Prints Throughout the World
Shipping art prints safely is crucial to their preservation and my guide aims to equip you with all the necessary tools and knowledge.
By following the steps outlined—you’ll know how to ship art prints without damaging them and getting them to the desired location with ease.
Remember the effort you put into packaging not only protects the prints but also reflects your professionalism and care for your art.
Want to see how a packed piece of art prints looks in real life?
Check out our website and order one of our stunning prints — we ship throughout the world and have a seamless process of packing!
