The internet allows artists to reach a worldwide audience. But once you’ve sold a work online, how do you ensure that your art is delivered to the customer safely and damage-free? Here are some guidelines to follow on how to ship art:
PACKAGING
Pre-wrap
Start by wrapping the artwork with glassine or acid free tissue paper. This will prevent any damage from condensation that could occur while in transit.
Image courtesy of jenniferyoung.com
Padding / Boxing
After your artwork is wrapped to prevent condensation, you will want to surround the artwork with padding. This can be in the form of bubble wrap, peanuts, or wadded paper. If using bubble wrap, be sure not to have the bubbles facing the artwork, this could lead to indentations. The key is to make sure that the artwork is not moving at all when in the shipping box. You can find all the boxes required for shipping as well as other packing supplies at ULINE. Their prices seem to be the best on the internet.
Taping
Use packing tape, either clear or brown packaging tape to cover all seams in the box, this will prevent any damage from moisture while being transported.
Labeling
Clearly label your box with both “Ship To” and “Ship From” addresses. You will also want
to label your package as “FRAGILE.” Another helpful tip is to label the end of the package that the purchaser should open first.
SHIPPING
Insurance
It is extremely important to purchase additional insurance from the carrier you choose. ArtVenue requires all sellers to purchase this insurance. Insurance is offered by most major carriers, including UPS, and Fedex, and is very affordable.
UPS prices
Declared Value Declared Value Fees
$0.00 – $100.00 Free
$100.01 – $50,000.00 $0.75 for each $100 with a minimum charge of $2.25
FedEx prices
Declared Value Declared Value Fees
$0.00 – $100.00 Free
$100.01 – $1000 $0.75 for each $100 over $100 with a minimum of $2.25
Require Signature
To ensure the intended recipient receives the artwork, we instruct sellers to require a signature from the purchaser upon delivery. This decreases the chance of theft or damage, both events that are most likely to occur if the package is left unattended. Requiring a signature with UPS or FedEx is an additional $3.25 per package but well worth it.
Tracking
Both UPS and FedEx will provide you with tracking numbers when shipping. It’s a relief to know right away that the customer has received their artwork. ArtVenue requires sellers to provide us with the tracking number so we know when to pay the seller.
OTHER OPTIONS
If you are worried about properly packaging and shipping your artwork, you might want to consider visiting the UPS Store and using their full service packaging services.
