Protect artwork with proper packaging

How to Ship Artwork & Paintings Safely

Ship framed art, canvases, and prints without damage. Professional packaging techniques for valuable artwork.

Typical: 2 - 30 lbs
Size: Flat or oversized packages

No credit card required • No monthly fees • No contracts

Common Challenges When Shipping Artwork

Preventing frame damage
Canvas protection
Corner impacts
Temperature changes
High-value insurance

Best Shipping Options for Artwork

Compare rates and choose the best option for your shipment

Recommended
UPS

UPS Ground

Price Range:$15.00 - $50.00
Delivery:1-5 days

Framed artwork and larger pieces. Better handling for oversized items.

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USPS

Priority Mail

Price Range:$10.00 - $35.00
Delivery:1-3 days

Smaller prints and canvases. Fast delivery with $100 insurance.

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FedEx

FedEx Ground

Price Range:$14.00 - $45.00
Delivery:1-5 days

Compare with UPS for best oversized rates.

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How to Pack Artwork for Shipping

Follow these tips to ensure your items arrive safely

1

Protect the Glass

Tape an X across glass with blue painter's tape. If glass breaks, it stays in place. Consider replacing glass with plexiglass for shipping.

2

Use Corner Protectors

Cardboard corner protectors are essential for framed art. They absorb impacts that would otherwise damage frame corners.

3

Wrap in Glassine or Plastic

Wrap artwork in glassine paper (for paintings) or plastic (for prints) before boxing. This protects from moisture and surface damage.

4

Custom Box or Flat Pack

Use picture boxes or build a custom box. Art should fit snugly with no room to shift. Multiple layers of cardboard for rigidity.

Protection Checklist

Tape X across glass with painter's tape
Use cardboard corner protectors
Wrap in glassine or plastic sheeting
Use picture boxes or custom packaging
Add 'FRAGILE' and 'DO NOT BEND' labels
Consider art insurance for valuable pieces
Photograph artwork before shipping

Why Ship Artwork with Atoship?

Save Up to 89%

Get commercial shipping rates from USPS, UPS, and FedEx without volume requirements.

Compare All Carriers

See rates from all major carriers side-by-side and choose the best option.

Free Insurance

Get up to $100 free coverage on USPS Priority Mail shipments.

Artwork Shipping FAQ

How do I ship framed artwork with glass?

Tape an X across the glass with painter's tape, add corner protectors, wrap in plastic, and use a picture box with cushioning. Consider removing glass for valuable pieces.

What's the best way to ship canvas paintings?

Wrap in glassine paper (never bubble wrap on paint surface), add cardboard panels on both sides, and ship in a custom box or sturdy flat pack.

Should I ship art framed or unframed?

Unframed is safer and cheaper. If framing is important to the buyer, consider shipping unframed with the frame packed separately.

How do I insure valuable artwork?

Priority Mail includes $100. For valuable art, purchase additional insurance through Atoship. Consider specialty art insurance for pieces over $1,000.

What size box do I need?

Use a box 2-3 inches larger than your framed art on all sides to allow for cushioning. Never force art into a too-small box.

Can I use tubes for prints?

Yes! Cardboard tubes are great for unframed prints and posters. Use sturdy tubes and cap both ends securely.

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