Poster and Art Shipping Options

Shipping flat artwork without damage requires careful packaging choices. Understanding the nuances of different shipping methods can help you select the best option for your artwork, ensuring it arrives safely and cost-effectively.

Tube Shipping

Best For:

Tube shipping is ideal for rolled posters, flexible prints, and unframed canvases. This method protects the artwork from creasing and bending, making it a popular choice for prints that can be rolled without damage.

Tube Sizes:

When selecting a tube size, consider both the dimensions of your artwork and the need for protective padding. For instance, an 18x24-inch poster fits well in a 26-inch long tube with a 3-inch diameter, weighing approximately 0.5 pounds. Larger posters, like a 24x36-inch piece, may require a 40-inch tube, while a 27x40-inch movie poster fits best in a 44-inch tube with a 4-inch diameter, resulting in a weight of around 1.2 pounds. Choosing the right size ensures the art is secure but not overly compressed.

Carrier Rates (36" Tube, 1 lb):

The cost of shipping varies depending on the carrier and service level. USPS Priority offers a competitive rate of $12.50, while USPS Ground Advantage provides a more economical option at $9.80. UPS Ground typically charges around $14.50, which might be suitable for heavier or more valuable items requiring additional insurance options.

Flat Shipping

Best For:

Flat shipping is perfect for rigid prints, matted artwork, photography prints, and framed pieces. This method provides stability and supports the artwork in transit, preventing bending or folding.

Flat Package Options:

Flat mailers are suitable for small prints up to 12x15 inches. They offer a lightweight and straightforward option for sending less fragile items. For medium-sized art, rigid mailers up to 18x24 inches provide enhanced protection with sturdier materials. Framed art, particularly valuable or delicate pieces, benefits from the use of art boxes, which can accommodate various sizes and offer comprehensive protection.

Carrier Rates (18x24" Rigid, 2 lbs):

For flat packages, USPS Priority Flat Rate offers a cost-effective option at $10.40, while USPS Ground is even more affordable at $8.50. UPS Ground is slightly higher at $12.80, which may be justified by additional features like tracking and insurance.

USPS Tube Rates

Priority Mail Tubes:

USPS offers Priority Mail Tubes in various sizes. Small and medium tubes are available at a flat rate with Priority shipping, while large triangle tubes cost $21.90. These rates are convenient for shipping within set dimensions and weights.

Ground Advantage (by weight/dimensions):

For longer tubes, the Ground Advantage option may be cheaper than Priority, with costs determined by the package's length and weight. This can be particularly beneficial for oversized artwork that exceeds standard dimensions.

Packaging Materials

Tubes:

Choosing the right tube for your shipment is essential. Kraft tubes are cost-effective, priced between $0.50 and $1.50, offering basic protection. White tubes, priced from $0.75 to $2.00, provide better presentation, which might appeal to businesses prioritizing aesthetics. Heavy-duty tubes, ranging from $1.50 to $3.00, afford maximum protection, ideal for valuable or fragile prints. Adjustable tubes, costing between $2.00 and $4.00, are versatile, fitting multiple sizes and reducing inventory needs.

Flat:

For flat shipments, cardboard stiffeners available for $0.30 to $0.75 provide basic support, while rigid mailers, priced at $0.80 to $2.00, offer good protection for medium-sized art. Art boxes, ranging from $3.00 to $8.00, provide excellent protection, particularly for framed or high-value pieces.

Protecting Artwork

Rolled Prints:

Protecting rolled prints involves several steps to maintain their condition during transit. Begin by wrapping the artwork in acid-free tissue paper to prevent any chemical reactions that might cause discoloration. Roll the print loosely to avoid creases, and secure the tube ends with caps to prevent accidental opening. Clearly label the package with "Do Not Bend" to alert handlers of the contents' fragility.

Flat Prints:

For flat prints, place the artwork in a glassine or acid-free sleeve to protect the surface. Add cardboard backing on both the front and back for added stability. Use corner protectors if the piece is framed, and consider double-boxing valuable items to prevent damage from external impacts.

Framed Art Shipping

Challenges:

Shipping framed art presents unique challenges, including the risk of glass breakage, the heavy weight of the frames, and large dimensions that can complicate handling and increase shipping costs.

Best Practices:

To mitigate these risks, tape an X pattern across the glass to prevent shattering in case of impact. Wrap the frame in bubble wrap for cushioning, and use corner protectors to guard against knocks. Double-boxing, with a 2-inch gap between the boxes, adds an extra layer of defense. Finally, label the package with "Fragile—Glass" to ensure careful handling.

Rates (24x30 Framed, 8 lbs):

Shipping costs for framed artwork vary. UPS Ground rates range from $28 to $45, FedEx Ground from $30 to $48, and USPS Priority from $32 to $55. These rates should be carefully considered, especially for high-value pieces where insurance might be necessary.

Gallery and Artist Tips

Frequent Art Shippers:

For artists and galleries frequently shipping artwork, buying tubes and boxes in bulk can result in savings exceeding 50%. Standardizing sizes streamlines the packing process, and using packing templates ensures consistency and efficiency. Incorporating shipping costs into the price of the art can also simplify transactions and clarify costs for buyers.

Comparison Chart

18x24 Print, 1 lb:

For an 18x24 print weighing 1 pound, tube shipping is often the most economical option. The total cost, including $1.25 for packaging and $8.50 for shipping, amounts to $9.75. A rigid flat package costs $10.00, while boxing the print raises the expense to $13.50. For most prints, tube shipping offers the best balance of cost and protection.

Atoship for Art

Atoship offers tailored solutions for shipping posters and artwork. With features like comparing tube versus flat shipping, providing accurate dimensional quotes, and offering insurance for valuable art, Atoship ensures safe delivery. They also offer discounted rates for USPS and UPS, making them a smart choice for artists and businesses looking to ship their creations efficiently and affordably.