Shipping and Handling

How to Pack an Artwork Properly

Before shipping an artwork — whether it’s a small print or a large-scale sculpture — be sure to review our packing guidelines.

IMPORTANT: Insurance coverage is valid only if the artwork is packed in full accordance with our instructions. If the piece arrives damaged and the packaging does not meet the required standards, the insurance company will not allow us to confirm the sale or take responsibility for the damage. Therefore, it is essential to strictly follow the packing recommendations.

Crate

Box

Tube

Paintings

Paintings are among the most sensitive types of artworks. So, we have prepared general safety recommendations for the following types of artwork:

Art Example

  • Paintings smaller than 122×122 cm,
  • Paintings larger than 122×122 cm,
  • Framed artworks,
  • Canvas paintings, which are shipped in a roll.

We’ve compiled a list of recommended materials, helpful links, and additional information to help you avoid common mistakes and ensure your artworks are delivered safely and securely.

Please follow the instructions that match your artwork type. Keep in mind that every piece is unique and may require a customized approach.

NOTE: Any artwork with at least one side exceeding 122 cm must be packed in a wooden crate. This rule applies regardless of the artwork’s material — if any part of the piece exceeds the specified size, a wooden container is mandatory.

IMPORTANT: Before packing, make sure the paint on your artwork is completely dry. A piece may appear dry visually, but that doesn’t always mean it is. Drying time depends on many factors — the type and brand of paint, use of mediums, color, and more. Be sure to research the characteristics of the materials you’ve used and determine the actual drying time.

ArtyTraders insurance does not cover damage caused by packing a painting that has not fully dried.

Paintings Smaller Than 122×122 cm

Art Example

What You’ll Need:

  • Glassine paper or acid-free archival paper,
  • Plastic film (stretch wrap, polyethylene, or a thick plastic bag),
  • Bubble wrap,
  • Foam board at least 1.3 cm thick or double-layer corrugated cardboard,
  • Packing tape,
  • Cardboard corner protectors,
  • Cardboard box.

Instruction

Step 1

Carefully wrap the painting in glassine or acid-free archival paper. All materials that touch the artwork’s surface must be archival quality. Always handle the piece with clean white cotton gloves or through a layer of acid-free paper.

Step 2

Cut four 20×20 cm squares from the same paper and fold each diagonally, then again, to create triangular corner pockets. Place one on each corner of the painting.

Step 3

Attach the artwork to a sheet of foam board (or double-layer cardboard) of the same or slightly larger size using tape only on the paper corners. This will provide a sturdy backing.

Step 4

For moisture protection, wrap the painting in plastic film or place it in a heavy-duty plastic bag. Seal all openings securely to prevent moisture entry.

Step 5

Wrap the artwork in two layers of bubble wrap, as if wrapping a gift. Secure it with packing tape.

Step 6

Place cardboard corner protectors on all four corners of the wrapped artwork.

Step 7

Sandwich the wrapped artwork between two sheets of foam board (at least 1.3 cm thick) or double-layer corrugated cardboard. Each sheet should be 5–7 cm larger than the artwork on all sides. Tape all sides to secure the package and prevent shifting.
Important: Do not apply tape directly to the surface of the artwork — this may dent the canvas.

Step 8

Place the “sandwich” into a cardboard box, leaving about 7–8 cm of space on all sides. Fill any empty space with crumpled white paper or extra bubble wrap to prevent movement during transit.

Step 9

Seal the box using the H-taping method: one long strip of tape down the center seam and two strips across the edges to form the shape of an “H”. Add extra strips if needed for added security. You can find visual guides by searching “H-taping method” online.

Step 10

Attach the shipping label and cover it with clear tape. Using a thick marker, write “FRAGILE” in large letters on the box, or apply appropriate warning stickers.

Paintings Smaller Than 122×122 cm

Art Example

What You’ll Need:

  • Glassine paper or acid-free archival paper,
  • Plastic film (polyethylene, stretch wrap, or a strong plastic bag),
  • Bubble wrap,
  • Foam board at least 1.3 cm thick or double-layer corrugated cardboard,
  • Packing tape,
  • Cardboard corner protectors,
  • Custom wooden crate (made to order – see crate instructions).

Crate

Instruction

Step 1

Carefully wrap the painting in glassine or acid-free archival paper. All materials that come into contact with the artwork must be of archival quality. To avoid damage, handle the piece only with cotton gloves or through a layer of archival paper.

Step 2

Cut four squares of 20×20 cm from the same paper (adjust size if needed), fold each one diagonally, and then fold again to create triangular pockets. Place one on each corner of the painting.

Step 3

Secure the artwork to a sheet of foam board (or double-layer cardboard) of the same or slightly larger size—tape only the paper corners, not the artwork itself. This creates a firm and stable backing.

Step 4

To protect against moisture, wrap the piece in polyethylene film, stretch wrap, or place it in a heavy-duty plastic bag. Seal all potential points of water entry securely with packing tape.

Step 5

Wrap the painting in at least three layers of bubble wrap. Add more layers if the surface includes textured or protruding elements. Wrap the piece as you would a gift, securing the layers neatly with tape.

Step 6

Prepare a custom wooden crate and place the wrapped artwork inside, ensuring a snug and secure fit. For detailed, step-by-step instructions on crate assembly and packing, refer to the “Crates” section.

Framed Paintings

Framed paintings also require careful handling, as the frame is an integral part of the artwork and contributes to its overall value and presentation.

Art Example

What You’ll Need:

  • Glassine paper or acid-free archival paper,
  • Plastic film (stretch wrap, polyethylene, or strong plastic bag),
  • Bubble wrap,
  • Painter’s tape (for works with glass),
  • Cardboard corner protectors,
  • Packing tape,
  • Foam board at least 1.3 cm thick,
  • Filler: crumpled or shredded white paper,
  • Heavy-duty cardboard box (if the framed work does not exceed 45×60 cm).

Box

Crate

Instruction

Step 1

Choose a sturdy cardboard box or make a custom wooden crate, ensuring that the painting fits freely inside with at least 7-8 cm of space on each side. This space will be needed for protective layers of bubble wrap and other materials.

Step 2

If the frame contains glass or acrylic glazing, remove it from the painting. If there is no glass, proceed to Step 4.
Apply painter’s tape in a cross pattern on the glass or acrylic to ensure that shards stay in place in case of damage and do not harm the artwork.

Step 3

Place the glass/acrylic between two sheets of foam board that exceed the size of the glazing by at least 5 cm on each side. Secure everything with packing tape around the perimeter to prevent the glass from shifting.

Step 4

Wrap the artwork itself in acid-free archival paper or glassine paper. Any material that comes into contact with the surface of the artwork must be of archival quality.

Step 5

To protect against moisture, wrap the artwork in plastic film or polyethylene. Seal all potential entry points for water with packing tape.

Step 6

Attach cardboard corner protectors to the corners of the painting. These can be purchased or made DIY—there are many online instructions available.

Step 7

Wrap the framed painting in three layers of bubble wrap, like a gift, and secure the wrap with tape.
⚠️ If the framed painting is larger than 45×60 cm (18”×24”), a custom wooden crate is required. Follow the instructions in the “Crates” section.

Step 8

If the frame is smaller than 45×60 cm, secure the wrapped artwork between two sheets of foam board and tightly wrap the edges with tape.

Step 9

Place the “sandwich” inside a sturdy cardboard box. Fill all empty spaces inside the box with crumpled or shredded white paper to prevent movement during transportation. Ensure that the artwork is firmly secured. Seal the box with packing tape, paying special attention to the corners.

Step 10

Attach the shipping label and seal it with clear tape to prevent it from peeling off. Mark the box with “FRAGILE” in large letters or use pre-made FRAGILE labels.

Rolled Canvas

Canvas paintings up to 183 cm x 183 cm in size can be removed from the stretcher frame, rolled, and shipped in a special mailing tube with a diameter ranging from 20 to 30 cm, depending on the size of the painting. Ensure that the painting is fully dry before attempting to roll it.

Art Example

What You’ll Need:

  • Glassine paper or acid-free archival paper,
  • A sturdy mailing tube with plastic caps, with a diameter of at least 20 cm and up to 30 cm (depending on the canvas size),
  • A second, smaller tube for internal support (you will roll the painting around this tube and insert it into the larger one),
  • Packing tape,
  • Bubble wrap.

Tube

Instruction

Step 1

Place the painting between two layers of acid-free archival paper. Ensure that the entire canvas is covered with paper.

Step 2

Carefully roll the painting, with the brush side facing outward, around the thinner tube for internal support. DO NOT roll it too tightly, as this could damage the painting!

Step 3

Wrap the rolled painting in a layer of bubble wrap for additional protection and to prevent moisture exposure. Secure the wrap with tape. Remember to wrap the bubble side flat against the painting.

Step 4

Place this tube inside the larger mailing tube. Fill the gaps on both sides with bubble wrap, but be cautious not to compress the edges of the painting. Close the caps and secure them with packing tape.

Step 5

Attach the shipping label and tape it securely with clear tape to prevent it from detaching. Clearly mark the tube with the words “FRAGILE” in bold letters.

Flat Artworks

Flat Artworks Up to 48``x48``

Flat artworks such as drawings, photographs, and collages are highly vulnerable to smudging, bending, and environmental damage. They, like other types of paintings, require a special approach.

Art Example

What You’ll Need:

  • Glassine paper or acid-free archival paper,
  • Plastic film, polyethylene packaging, or a plastic bag,
  • Archival quality foam board at least 1.5 cm thick or double-layered cardboard,
  • Bubble wrap or clean white paper, crumpled or cut into small pieces,
  • Packing tape,
  • Cardboard box.

Box

Instruction

Step 1

Wrap the artwork in acid-free archival paper or glassine. Make sure that any materials in contact with the surface of the artwork are archival quality. We recommend avoiding direct contact with the painting surface by wearing white cotton gloves or placing acid-free paper between the artwork and your hands.

Step 2

Take four (4) 8″x8″ squares of glassine or acid-free archival paper (adjust the size of the squares depending on the artwork size). Fold each square diagonally to create a triangle, then fold again to create a triangular pocket. Place one pocket on each corner of the painting.

Step 3

Attach the wrapped artwork only at the corners using the archival paper and secure it to a sheet of foam board (or double-layered cardboard) that is the same size or slightly larger than the artwork for secure support.

Step 4

For moisture protection, wrap the artwork in glassine or polyethylene packaging, or place it in a sturdy plastic bag. Use tape to securely seal all areas where moisture could penetrate and damage the artwork.

Step 5

Place the wrapped artwork between two sheets of foam board (or double-layered cardboard), creating a “sandwich” around it. The foam board should extend at least 5-7 cm beyond the edges of the artwork. Use packing tape to secure the foam board sheets together, reinforcing the corners for extra protection. Make sure the sides are tightly fastened to prevent the artwork from shifting inside the packaging.

Step 6

Place the “sandwiched” artwork into a cardboard box, leaving approximately 7-8 cm of space on each side. Fill the empty space with bubble wrap or crumpled white paper to prevent any shifting during transport. Seal the box securely with packing tape, reinforcing the corners for added protection.

Step 7

Attach the shipping label to the package and seal it with clear tape to prevent it from being damaged during transit. Write “FRAGILE” in large uppercase letters on the box with a marker, or use pre-made “FRAGILE” stickers.

Flat Artworks Up to 48``x48``

Art Example

What You’ll Need:

  • Glassine or acid-resistant archival paper,
  • Plastic film or polyethylene wrap,
  • Bubble wrap,
  • Foam board sheets at least ½ thick or double-layered cardboard,
  • Cutting tool for sizing the cardboard,
  • Packing tape,
  • Wooden crate.

Crate

Instruction

Step 1

Wrap the artwork with acid-free archival paper or Glassine paper. Ensure that any material coming into contact with the surface of the artwork is of archival quality. It is recommended to avoid touching the surface of the artwork with bare hands, using white cotton gloves or placing archival paper between the artwork and your hands.

Step 2

Take four (4) square pieces of Glassine or archival paper, each measuring 8”x8” (you can adjust the size of the squares to better suit your artwork). Fold each square diagonally to form a triangle, then fold it again to create a triangular pocket. Place one pocket at each corner of the artwork.

Step 3

Tape only the corners of the archival paper, then secure the wrapped artwork to a foam board sheet (or double-layered cardboard) that is the same size or slightly larger than the artwork for sturdy support.

Step 4

For moisture protection, wrap the artwork in plastic film, polyethylene wrap, or place it in a strong plastic bag. Use tape to seal all areas where moisture might enter and damage the artwork.

Step 5

Place the wrapped artwork between two sheets of archival-quality foam board (or double-layered cardboard) with a thickness of at least 1.3 cm. The edges of the foam board should extend at least 5-7 cm beyond the edges of the artwork on all sides. Secure the “sandwich” with packing tape, reinforcing the corners for added protection. Ensure the sides are firmly secured to prevent the artwork from shifting within the packaging.

Step 6

Next, build a wooden crate and securely seal the artwork inside. Follow all steps provided in the section on wooden crates.

Framed Flat Artworks

Flat artworks such as drawings, photographs, and collages are highly vulnerable to smudging, bending, and environmental damage. They, like other types of paintings, require a special approach.

Art Example

What You’ll Need:

  • Glassine paper,
  • Acid-free archival paper,
  • Plastic film or polyethylene wrap,
  • Bubble wrap,
  • Painter’s tape (if packing a painting with protective glass),
  • Cardboard corner protectors,
  • Packing tape,
  • Foam board at least 1.3 cm thick or double-layered cardboard,
  • Crumpled or shredded white paper,
  • Very sturdy cardboard box (if the artwork is smaller than 46×61 cm).

For artworks that are larger than 18″x24″ Custom Wooden Crate is mandatory.

Box

Crate

Instruction

Step 1

Use a sturdy cardboard box or create a custom wooden crate that fits the framed artwork, leaving about 7-8 cm of space on all sides. This extra space is necessary for the layers of bubble wrap that will be added for protection.

Step 2

If the frame has protective glass or an acrylic panel, remove it from the frame. If not, proceed to Step 6.

Step 3

Apply two pieces of painter’s tape diagonally across the glass/acrylic panel to form a large “X.” This will help hold the glass shards together if it breaks during transport.

Step 4

Place the glass/acrylic panel between two sheets of foam board (or cardboard), ensuring each sheet extends approximately 5 cm larger than the glass on all sides. Secure the foam board sheets with tape to prevent the panel from shifting inside.

Step 5

Wrap the foam board sandwich (with the panel inside) in bubble wrap and secure it with tape. This will be packed alongside the framed artwork in the box or crate.

Step 6

Wrap the artwork in archival-quality cloth or Glassine paper. Note that any materials that will contact the surface of the artwork should be of archival quality.

Step 7

To protect against moisture, wrap the artwork in plastic film or polyethylene.

Step 8

Wrap the framed artwork in three (3) layers of bubble wrap and secure it with tape.

Step 9

Add cardboard corners to protect the corners of the wrapped artwork. You can purchase pre-made corners or make them yourself. A quick Google search will provide resources with instructions on how to create them.
If your framed artwork is larger than 46×61 cm, you will need to build a wooden crate and pack the artwork in it. Please follow the instructions in the wooden crate section.
If your framed artwork is smaller than 46×61 cm, proceed to Step 10 below.

Step 10

Place the wrapped artwork between two sheets of foam board and secure them with tape around the entire perimeter.

Step 11

Place the artwork in a sturdy cardboard box. To minimize movement inside the box, fill any empty spaces around the artwork with crumpled paper. The tighter the packing, the less chance of damage. Seal the box with packing tape, reinforcing the corners.

Step 12

Attach a shipping label to the box and cover it with clear film to prevent it from being removed during transport. Write “FRAGILE” in large capital letters on the box or use pre-made “FRAGILE” stickers.

Rollable Artwork

Artworks on paper, such as sketches, photographs, watercolors, and others, can be rolled up and shipped in a sturdy mailing tube with a diameter ranging from 20 cm to 30 cm, depending on the size of the piece.

Art Example

What You’ll Need:

  • A sturdy mailing tube with plastic end caps, with a diameter of at least 20 cm and up to 30 cm (depending on the size of the artwork),
  • A smaller diameter tube for internal support (the artwork will be rolled around this tube and inserted into the larger tube),
  • Packing tape,
  • Glassine paper or acid-free archival paper,
  • Bubble wrap.

For artworks that are larger than 18″x24″ Custom Wooden Crate is mandatory.

Tube

Instruction

Step 1

Place your artwork between two layers of Glassine paper or acid-free archival paper. Make sure the artwork is completely covered by the paper.

Step 2

Roll the paper with the artwork around the smaller tube for internal support.

Step 3

Next, wrap the artwork with a layer of bubble wrap for protection and to prevent moisture from getting in. Seal the bubble wrap completely with packing tape.

Step 4

Place this tube into the outer mailing tube. Fill any empty spaces at the ends with additional bubble wrap, but be careful not to damage the edges of your artwork. Insert the end caps and seal them with packing tape.

Step 5

Attach the shipping label to the package and cover it with clear tape to ensure it is not removed during transport. Mark the tube as “FRAGILE” in large capital letters using a marker.

Sculptures

Since sculptures can vary significantly in size, weight, fragility, etc., it is not possible to provide universal instructions that will work for all. So, following the guidelines can be a general direction. If you have any doubts, please contact us for personalized packing instructions for your piece.

IMPORTANT: All artwork that is 30 cm or larger and/or weighs 2.27 kg or more must be packed in a wooden crate. A wooden crate is required regardless of the material the artwork is made from.

NOTE: If the artwork was sold with a separate base used for display, the base must be packed and shipped in the same crate as the artwork.

Art Example

What You’ll Need:

  • Bubble wrap,
  • Packing tape,
  • Shredded paper (or cotton),
  • Sturdy cardboard box (for sculptures under 30 cm and weighing less than 2.27 kg),
  • Custom wooden crate (for larger sculptures, refer to the “Crates” section).

Crate

Instruction

Step 1

Wrap the top of the sculpture carefully with multiple layers of bubble wrap, adjusting the number of layers based on the sculpture’s shape and fragility. Focus extra protection on the most delicate areas. Trim any excess wrap and secure it with tape.

Step 2

Add additional protective layers on top using several pieces of bubble wrap, making sure they are large enough to cover and overlap the existing wrapping. Secure all edges firmly with tape.

Step 3

Wrap the bottom of the sculpture with multiple layers of bubble wrap, making sure it overlaps the already wrapped top section for complete coverage. Trim any excess and secure the edges with tape. Use additional tape to seal the central area where the top and bottom wraps meet.

Step 4

Just as you did for the top, apply protective layers to the bottom of the sculpture using pieces of bubble wrap large enough to overlap the existing layers. Secure all edges firmly with tape.
If your sculpture is under 30 cm tall and weighs less than 2.27 kg, it can be shipped in a sturdy cardboard box. Proceed to Step 5.
 If your sculpture is over 30 cm tall and/or weighs more than 2.27 kg, it should be shipped in a custom-built wooden crate. For guidance on constructing a crate, follow Steps 1–7 in the “Crates” section, then return to these instructions starting from Step 5.

Step 5

Before placing the packed sculpture inside, fill approximately one-third of the box or crate with shredded paper. If you’re using a cardboard box, reinforce the bottom by applying extra tape along the flaps and side seams before adding the filler. Create a shallow indentation in the center of the shredded paper and gently place the sculpture inside. Then fill the remaining space with more shredded paper, ensuring it surrounds the sculpture. Pack the paper tightly to prevent any movement during transit.
IMPORTANT: Make sure the box or crate is about 5–7 cm larger than the sculpture on all sides to allow for proper cushioning. Additionally, place more paper beneath the sculpture than on top, as this helps counter the effects of gravity during transport.

Step 6

If you’re using a cardboard box, seal the top securely using the H-taping method. This involves placing one long strip of tape across the center seam where the flaps meet, and two additional strips along the edges where the flaps close against the sides, forming an “H” shape. Add extra vertical strips of tape if additional reinforcement is needed. For visual reference, you can search online for “H-taping method”.
If you’re using a wooden crate, attach the lid using screws only (not glue), so the collector can easily remove it upon delivery.

Step 7

Clearly mark which side of the box or crate is the top by writing “THIS SIDE UP” and drawing an upward-pointing arrow on all four side panels. This helps movers understand how to properly handle and position the package. Alternatively, you can use pre-made “This Side Up” stickers for added visibility and convenience.

Step 8

Clearly mark the removable lid by writing “UNSCREW THIS SIDE ONLY” so the collector knows which panel to remove. If needed, include additional instructions directly on the crate using a black marker to help guide the collector in safely and easily opening it.

Step 9

Attach the shipping label to the outside of the package and cover it with clear tape to protect it from damage or removal during transit. Clearly mark the box or crate with the word “FRAGILE” in large capital letters using a marker, or apply pre-made “FRAGILE” stickers for better visibility.
Be sure to follow the packing instructions specific to your type of artwork.

Crates

Use a custom crate for artwork such as sculptures, large flat artworks, paintings larger than 48″x48″, and fragile items.

Art Example

What You’ll Need:

  • Four (4) plywood boards (0.64 to 1.27 cm thick, depending on the size and fragility of the artwork) for the frame,
  • Two (2) plywood panels for the front and back walls,
  • Drill,
  • Saw,
  • 3.18 cm wooden screws,
  • Wood glue,
  • 1.27 cm thick foam board.

Instruction

Step 1

Measure your pre-packed artwork (packed according to the specific instructions for your item) and record the height, width, and depth of the package. If you are shipping a painting, use these measurements to determine the dimensions of the plywood panels needed to build the crate frame. Be sure to account for the 1.27 cm-thick foam lining that will be added to the interior. If you are shipping a sculpture, make sure the crate dimensions are approximately 7.5–10 cm larger on all sides than the sculpture to allow space for cushioning materials like bubble wrap and shredded paper.

Step 2

Cut four plywood pieces according to the measurements from Step 1 to create a frame with an opening that fits the packed artwork snugly. Take into account the thickness of the plywood when measuring the length and height, and trim the pieces accordingly. The top frame piece should overlap the top edges of the side pieces, as it will serve as the removable lid that the collector can unscrew.

Step 3

Begin assembling the frame by securing three plywood strips together using screws and wood glue, leaving the top piece (the lid) unattached for now. The lid will be screwed on after the artwork has been placed inside.

Step 4

Line the frame with foam strips, securing them with glue or tape. If you’re using glue to attach the foam, allow the glue to dry completely before proceeding with the rest of the packing.

Step 5

Cut two plywood panels to match the size of the assembled frame. These panels will serve as the front and back walls of your crate.

Step 6

Attach one panel to the back of the frame using wood glue and screws.

Step 7

Complete the packing by placing your artwork inside and sealing the crate tightly. Place a foam sheet (the same size as the frame) inside the open crate, and place your pre-packed artwork on top. There should be no free space inside for movement.

Step 8

Cover your artwork with another layer of foam. Then, place the second plywood panel on top of the crate and secure it tightly with glue and screws. Make sure the crate is sealed as tightly as possible to protect the artwork from air and moisture during transport.

Step 9

Clearly mark the removable lid by writing “REMOVE THIS SIDE” to guide the collector on which panel to unscrew. If necessary, add additional instructions with a black marker on the crate to assist the collector in easily removing the lid.

Step 10

Attach the shipping label to the outside of the crate and cover it with clear tape to ensure the label remains secure during transport. Clearly mark the crate as “FRAGILE” in large capital letters to alert handlers of the delicate nature of the contents.
TIP: For easier transportation, you can attach a cabinet handle to the top of the crate. Make sure the screws are long enough to secure the handle without protruding into the crate.
IMPORTANT: Please follow the provided instructions based on your artwork.

Need Consultation?

If you have any questions or your artwork requires a unique approach, simply Book a Call. We are ready to offer personalized recommendations and assist with the safe transportation of your artwork.

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