Top 5 Things to Check Before Shipping Your Artwork
Shipping artwork can be stressful — whether you’re an artist sending a piece to a buyer, a gallery preparing for an exhibition, or a collector transporting a valuable item. One mistake in packaging or preparation can lead to dents, scratches, frame damage, or even complete loss.
To ensure your artwork arrives safely and professionally, here are the top five things to check before shipping your artwork. Following this simple checklist will save you time, money, and potential heartache — especially when you’re relying on high-value artwork crates or art shipping crates.
1. Is the Artwork Properly Wrapped With Archival Materials?
Before placing your artwork inside any crate or shipping box, make sure the wrapping is done correctly. Poor or rushed wrapping is one of the most common causes of damage.
Checklist:
Use glassine paper or acid-free tissue on the artwork surface
Add a moisture-resistant layer (poly sheeting)
Wrap with bubble wrap (bubbles facing outward)
Protect corners with reinforced corner guards
This prevents abrasion, moisture damage, and pressure marks — especially important for canvases with textured surfaces.
2. Is the Artwork Fully Immobilised Inside the Crate?
Movement is the number-one enemy of safe art transport. Even in a strong crate, if the artwork isn’t secured internally, vibration and shifting can cause serious damage.
Before closing your crate, check:
Does the artwork sit firmly inside the crate without gaps?
Are foam inserts or padding supporting all sides?
Are the corners and edges protected?
Is there zero room for movement during transit?
High-quality art shipping crates like those from ArtCrates use custom-cut foam and precision sizing to eliminate internal shifting.
3. Are You Using the Right Artwork Crate for the Job?
Not all crates are equal — and choosing the wrong one can compromise the safety of your piece.
Key considerations:
Size: The crate should be made specifically for your artwork’s dimensions
Weight: Larger or heavier pieces need reinforced timber and thicker walls
Distance: International shipping requires export-ready construction
Value: High-value art deserves foam-lined, fully custom artwork crates
If in doubt, always choose a custom-built art shipping crate. They offer superior protection and comply with international standards.
4. Are All Labels, Documents & Handling Instructions Ready?
One of the simplest but most commonly overlooked steps: labelling and documentation.
Check that you have:
“Fragile” labels
“This Way Up” arrows
Sender and receiver details
Customs paperwork (for international shipments)
Insurance documents
Condition report (optional but strongly recommended)
Clear labelling ensures handlers and couriers treat the package correctly — especially when using large wooden artwork crates that require careful orientation.
5. Have You Chosen a Reliable Courier or Art Handling Service?
Even the best crate can’t compensate for a careless courier. Before shipping, confirm the carrier is experienced in fragile or fine art transport.
Ask yourself:
Does the courier specialise in fragile or art shipments?
Do they offer tracking?
Is there a climate-controlled option if needed?
Is insurance available or included?
Many UK artists use dedicated art logistics providers — but with a properly built crate from ArtCrates, even mainstream couriers can ship safely.
Final Thoughts: Ship Your Artwork With Confidence
A little preparation goes a long way. By checking these five essentials before shipping, you drastically reduce the risk of damage and ensure your artwork arrives in perfect condition.
For maximum protection, nothing beats a custom artwork crate designed specifically for your piece. At ArtCrates, we build strong, reusable, foam-lined wooden art shipping crates trusted by artists and galleries across the UK.