Shipping paintings can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. Paintings are not only valuable because of their aesthetic value but also their sentimental and monetary worth. Thus, it is important to safeguard them from getting damaged during shipping. To successfully ship paintings, proper packing is essential. In this article, we shall be discussing everything you need to know about packing paintings for shipping.
Materials needed for packing paintings for shipping
Before packing your paintings for shipping, you will need the following materials;
1. Bubble wrap
2. Packing tape
3. Cardboard box
4. Packing peanuts
5. Kraft paper
6. Scissors
7. Painter’s tape or masking tape
Below is a comprehensive guide on how to pack paintings for shipping;
Step 1: Prepare your painting for packing
The first step in packing paintings for shipping is to prepare them. Carefully remove any hanging wires or fastenings that extend beyond the frame. They can easily get entangled during the shipping process, causing damage to your painting. If you are shipping a large canvas painting, remove the stretcher bars. This will make the painting easier to pack and protect during shipping.
Step 2: Wrap your painting in bubble wrap
Once your painting is prepped and ready for packing, the next step is wrapping it in bubble wrap. Depending on the size and thickness of your painting, wrap it in one or two layers of bubble wrap. Ensure that the front surface is facing outward to avoid scratching or rubbing against the bubble wrap.
Step 3: Fasten the bubble wrap with tape
Use painter’s tape or masking tape to fasten the bubble wrap around the painting. Do not use packing tape as it can damage the painting’s surface when removed. Tape diagonally across the corners of the painting to create an “X.” This will reinforce the corners and prevent them from getting damaged during shipping.
Step 4: Cover your painting with Kraft paper
Place the bubble-wrapped painting on a sheet of Kraft paper covering it entirely. Ensure you use enough Kraft paper to cover the entire painting. Then, fold the edges of the Kraft paper towards the painting’s back and tape them with packing tape.
Step 5: Place the wrapped painting inside a cardboard box
Once the painting is entirely wrapped in Kraft paper, carefully place it in a cardboard box, ensuring that there is enough room for packing material. The cardboard box should be slightly larger than your painting to accommodate packing peanuts. Be sure to tape the box’s bottom with packing tape to secure it.
Step 6: Fill the gaps with packing peanuts
Fill any gaps in the cardboard box with packing peanuts to prevent the painting from shifting during transportation. Shake the box slightly to ensure that the packing peanuts are evenly distributed.
Step 7: Seal the box and label it
Once the box is filled with packing peanuts, secure it by taping the top with packing tape. Label the box, indicating that it contains fragile or valuable items. This will alert the shipping company to handle it with care.
Tips for packing paintings for shipping
• Use quality packing material- Invest in high-quality bubble wrap, Kraft paper, and packing peanuts. Do not compromise on packing materials to save on cost.
• Label your box clearly- Label your box with the address of the recipient and your address. Also, include clear instructions on handling and shipping.
• Choose a suitable courier- Research on suitable couriers that have experience shipping fragile and valuable items.
• Purchase insurance- Consider purchasing shipping insurance for your painting to protect against theft, loss, or damage during transportation.
Conclusion
Shipping a painting can be a daunting process, but with the right packing material and guidelines, it can be hassle-free. Properly preparing, wrapping, and securing your painting in a cardboard box is critical to ensuring its safety during shipping. Remember to label your box appropriately, use a suitable courier, and purchase shipping insurance. By taking the necessary precautions, you can have peace of mind when shipping your painting, knowing that it will arrive at its intended destination in the same condition you sent it.