Cheapest Way to Ship Artwork
From gallery canvases to poster prints, artwork needs rigid protection and careful handling.
Shipping Options for Artwork
Shipping artwork varies greatly depending on the type: flat prints can go in rigid mailers, while framed pieces or canvases need custom boxing with corner protectors and foam inserts. The primary enemies of artwork in transit are bending, puncture, moisture, and impact. For flat prints, a rigid stay-flat mailer or tube works well. For framed art, double-boxing with foam corners is the professional standard. Always consider insurance proportional to the artwork's value.
| Service | Carrier | Est. Cost | Speed | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ground AdvantageRecommended | USPS | $5-8 | 2-5 days | Flat prints and small unframed artwork |
| Priority Mail | USPS | $8-15 | 1-3 days | Valuable prints and small to medium artwork |
| FedEx Ground | FedEx | $12-25 | 3-7 days | Large framed pieces and canvases |
| UPS Ground | UPS | $12-25 | 3-7 days | Gallery shipments and oversized artwork |
Packaging Tips for Artwork
Pro Tips
- Never let bubble wrap touch the surface of a painting or print directly. Use glassine or tissue paper as a barrier layer.
- For framed art with glass, apply painter's tape in an X pattern across the glass to contain shards if it breaks during transit.
- Ship valuable artwork with signature confirmation and full-value insurance to protect your investment.
Important Considerations
Artwork ranges dramatically in value and fragility. Original paintings, limited edition prints, and framed pieces should always be insured for their full value. Oversized artwork may incur surcharges from all carriers due to dimensional weight pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Apply painter's tape in an X across any glass, then wrap the entire frame in bubble wrap with cardboard corner protectors. Place it in a box with at least 3 inches of cushioning on all sides, or ideally double-box it with padding between the inner and outer boxes. Always insure framed artwork for its full value.
Use a rigid stay-flat mailer with two pieces of stiff cardboard sandwiching the print. Place the print in a clear poly sleeve first to protect against moisture. For rolled prints, use a sturdy mailing tube with end caps secured by tape.
For original artwork or valuable prints, insurance is essential. USPS Priority Mail includes $100 of coverage, but you should purchase additional insurance for pieces worth more. FedEx and UPS also offer declared value coverage that can be added at checkout for full protection.
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