Fragile shipping: How do you send works of art and paintings?

One of the most common questions that comes up when sending products is what to do with those products that are more fragile. Especially relevant is everything related to sending paintings, frames, or works of art in general. We’ll try to help you with this topic.

Steps to send a painting or frame

If sending a frame stands out for anything, it is because of its fragility, weight, and value. For all these reasons, it is considered a special shipment for which specific measures should be taken.

1. Declare the value of the work of art

This step is particularly important, mainly in terms of the customs process and everything related to shipping insurance. In case of loss or damage to the parcels, the insurance will be activated based on the declared value of the package.

This ties in with another tip: insure it for the value of the work of art. That way, you won’t have any problem if something happens to the shipment. And even if it means a small extra cost in shipping, we guarantee it’s worth it.

2. Find good packaging

This point is vital. During the shipping process, the packaging can suffer damage due to transport, storage, etc. To avoid as much damage as possible, make sure the packaging is the best possible.

You can use different types of packaging, depending on the frame material, whether it has glass or not, etc. At InPost, we recommend that you don’t skimp on packaging and use as much material as you need.

3. Label the package correctly 

As always, we remind you that the label is the package identification. If you don’t place the labels correctly, our staff will have more difficulty identifying the destination of the package. And, in addition, you avoid delays in parcel deliveries.

Our recommendation is that you place a label inside the package itself and, once packed, place another label on the outside. And remember: the label must be clearly visible.

For shipping frames or works of art, and, in general, for any fragile product shipment, we also recommend placing a sticker indicating that it is a fragile product. This helps ensure greater care during the transport process.

Packaging tips for sending a frame

For us, the most important point is that the packaging is the best possible. Some things you should take into account:

Protect the glass: without a doubt this is the most fragile part, so you should take special care with the glass. First, you should place adhesive tape in the shape of an X, so that vibrations do not break it. After this, you should place a sheet of cork or corrugated cardboard.

Don’t skimp on bubble wrap: bubble wrap is very economical and can save your frame. Make sure you wrap it very well. 

Use wrapping paper to fully wrap the frame. Seal the wrapping well with adhesive tape; a few turns will be enough.