Fine Art Packing Service

Packing and shipping fine art requires careful planning and the right materials to ensure the artwork’s safety and preservation. Here’s a guide to help you through the process:

Materials Needed

  • Acid-free tissue paper
  • Glassine paper
  • Bubble wrap
  • Corner protectors
  • Foam boards
  • Cardboard sheets
  • Packing tape
  • Custom-built wooden crate or strong cardboard box
  • Desiccant packets (to control moisture)
  • Gloves (preferably cotton)

Steps for Packing Fine Art

1. Preparation

  • Clean Workspace: Ensure your workspace is clean and free of any materials that could damage the artwork.
  • Gloves: Always handle the artwork with clean gloves to prevent oils and dirt from transferring.

2. Wrapping the Art

  • Cover with Tissue Paper: Place acid-free tissue paper over the artwork’s surface. This prevents direct contact with any packing materials that could potentially damage the piece.
  • Glassine Paper: Wrap the artwork in glassine paper. This water-resistant material protects against moisture and provides an additional barrier against dust and dirt.

3. Protecting the Edges

  • Corner Protectors: Place corner protectors on all corners of the artwork to shield them from impacts. Custom foam or cardboard corners work well for this purpose.

4. Bubble Wrap

  • Wrap with Bubble Wrap: Wrap the artwork in several layers of bubble wrap, ensuring that the bubbles face outward. This cushioning helps absorb shocks during transit.
  • Secure with Tape: Use packing tape to secure the bubble wrap. Make sure the tape does not touch the artwork directly.

5. Creating a Protective Sandwich

  • Foam Boards: Sandwich the bubble-wrapped artwork between two pieces of foam board or sturdy cardboard. This adds rigidity and further protects the piece from bending or punctures.
  • Tape Securely: Use packing tape to secure the foam boards or cardboard around the artwork.

6. Packing in a Box

  • Choose the Right Box: Select a box slightly larger than the wrapped artwork. For extremely valuable pieces, consider a custom-built wooden crate.
  • Cushioning the Box: Line the bottom of the box with a layer of bubble wrap or packing peanuts.
  • Insert Artwork: Place the protected artwork into the box. Fill any empty space with additional bubble wrap or packing peanuts to prevent movement.
  • Desiccant Packets: Place desiccant packets inside the box to control moisture.

7. Sealing the Box

  • Close the Box: Close the box and seal it securely with packing tape. Reinforce all seams and edges with extra tape.
  • Label: Clearly label the box with “Fragile” and “This Side Up” stickers. Include handling instructions and contact information for the recipient.

8. Shipping Considerations

  • Choose a Reputable Carrier: Use a shipping company experienced in handling fine art. Consider using a service that specializes in art transport.
  • Insurance: Purchase adequate insurance to cover the value of the artwork in case of damage or loss during transit.
  • Tracking: Ensure the shipment has a tracking number and confirm delivery details with the recipient.

By following these steps, you can help ensure that your fine art is packed securely and arrives safely at its destination.