While rough handling or adverse weather during transit can’t be ruled out, fortunately, there are precautions you can take to give your precious package the best chance of reaching its destination undamaged. We asked fine art shipping experts, Auction Logistics at Mail Boxes Etc., for their insider tips.
Here are some of the intricacies of handling precious packages to ensure safe transit:
Shipping framed artwork
One of the first things to consider is whether the item is being shipped within the UK or overseas. This will influence the packaging materials used. For example, bubble wrap is a popular way to protect artwork but it isn’t suitable for air freight because, at 30,000 feet, the material goes hard and expands, which can cause damage inside the box.
The next consideration is the size of the box. Special measuring tools are used to ensure that a box that will accommodate all the packaging needed to protect the picture. Packing tightly all around the frame is crucial to ensure that there is no movement during transit. The best boxes are double-walled and corrugated. Double-boxing to increase cushioning space packed with appropriate void fill between cartons can be extremely effective.
Taping the glass can help protect the painting in case of breakage, but local packing teams must always check whether it has a UV coating, because if it does, it can’t be taped. However, there’s always the option of using glass safety film. And wherever possible, glass is removed from the painting and packed separately.
The canvas is covered or wrapped with special acid-free paper with oil-based paintings to protect it from moisture and dust. Once the artwork is securely wrapped and placed inside the box, all the necessary paperwork is inserted into the package, including details of the sender and recipient, in case the outer label should become damaged or detached. Taping the box is an art in itself – the edges in particular need to be well protected.
Shipping unframed artwork
Depending on the size of the canvas, unframed artwork can often be rolled and shipped in a heavy-duty mailing tube. Here again acid-free paper would be the best material to use to protect the painting, rolling around a smaller mailing tube for support. Labelling carefully and sealing the tube's end caps are the final crucial steps.
All shapes and sizes
Of course, artworks come in all shapes and sizes. For extra-large paintings, sculptures and statuary, as well as breakable items such as glass or tableware, custom boxes or bespoke crates are created where required, to ensure that items won’t move during transit.
The final important step is the selection of the best courier for the item and its destination. Customers can use the MBE Auction Logistics’ website to request collections from upcoming sales, where its delivery solutions are offered. MBE stores work with all the leading carriers, who use their in-depth knowledge to ensure the right solution for every piece. They also handle customs and import regulations documents for overseas shipments to ensure smooth passage and minimal delays.
For extra peace of mind, customers can protect their artwork in transit with the MBE CoverProtect compensation scheme, which covers the cost of packing, shipping and the value of the item in the event of loss or damage.
