Whether you’re an artist sending your work to a gallery, a collector moving states, or just someone who found the perfect piece and needs it delivered safely, shipping fine arts can feel nerve-wracking.
After all, it’s not just “stuff”—it’s valuable, fragile, and often irreplaceable.
The good news?
With the right prep and know-how, shipping art across the USA doesn’t have to be a white-knuckle experience.
In fact, it can be smooth, safe, and even a little exciting (because, hey, your art is going on a road trip!).
In this guide, we’ll walk through exactly how to ship fine art the right way—without the stress, the guesswork, or the horror stories.
Preparing Fine Art for Shipment
Before you even think about calling a shipping company, the first step is giving your artwork the VIP treatment it deserves.
Proper prep makes the difference between your piece arriving gallery-ready… or arriving with a sad story you’ll tell forever.
Let’s break it down.
Assess the Type of Artwork
Not all art is created equal—at least when it comes to shipping. A stretched canvas needs different care than a bronze sculpture. Ask yourself:
- Is it flat or 3D? (paintings vs. sculptures)
- Is it fragile or sturdy? (delicate frames vs. metal installations)
- Is it oversized? (that wall-sized piece will need special handling)
Knowing exactly what you’re shipping will help you choose the right materials and packing method.
Materials You’ll Need
Think of this as your “art packing toolkit.” Stock up on:
- Acid-free paper (won’t yellow or damage surfaces over time)
- Glassine sheets (amazing for protecting paintings from smudges and sticking)
- Bubble wrap (yes, the good kind—don’t skimp here!)
- Corner protectors (keep frames safe from bumps)
- Packing tape (archival if possible, so no residue)
- Custom crates or strong boxes (especially for sculptures or large works)
Pro tip: Never put bubble wrap directly on a painted surface. Always wrap with paper or glassine first.
Step-by-Step Packing Best Practices
For Paintings & Framed Art:
- Cover the artwork with glassine to protect the surface.
- Add corner protectors.
- Wrap the entire piece in bubble wrap (at least two layers).
- Place it in a sturdy box or custom-built crate, with padding on all sides.
For Sculptures & 3D Pieces:
- Wrap delicate parts with foam or acid-free tissue.
- Add bubble wrap around the entire piece, paying extra attention to fragile areas.
- Place the sculpture in a crate with custom-cut foam inserts so it doesn’t shift around.
For Delicate or Oversized Works:
- Use double boxing (a smaller padded box inside a larger sturdy one).
- Reinforce corners and edges with extra padding.
- For really oversized pieces, consider professional crating—sometimes DIY just won’t cut it.
Think of it this way: your artwork should be so snug and secure that if you gently shake the box, nothing moves inside. If it rattles, add more padding.
Choosing the Right Shipping Method
Okay, so your artwork is wrapped up like a masterpiece burrito—now what? Packing is half the battle, but choosing how to ship your art is just as important.
Not every shipping method is created equal, and the right choice really depends on your artwork, your budget, and how much peace of mind you want.
To decide on what method you are going to ship, you should first choose which shipping company you want to ship your artwork.
Choose a company who have sound knowledge in shipping fine artworks and who are in the shipping industry for decades.
Only such companies will know exactly how to handle delicate works—from climate-controlled trucks to custom crating and even insurance designed for artwork. Think of them as the VIP chauffeurs of the art world.
They will also help you choose between white glove shipping and standard shipping. A quick difference between the two is given below
At the end of the day, it’s about balancing safety, cost, and convenience. If your artwork makes your heart skip a beat, you’ll sleep better with white-glove.
Insurance & Documentation
Alright, let’s talk about the part most people don’t think about until it’s too late—insurance and paperwork.
Packing and shipping are key, but without the right coverage and documentation, even the best-prepared artwork is at risk if something goes wrong in transit.
Why Art Insurance Is Crucial
Accidents happen—even with white-glove services. Trucks hit potholes, crates get dropped, weather can wreak havoc.
Standard shipping insurance usually covers only the declared value of the crate as a “package,” not the actual value of the artwork inside.
That’s why specialized fine art insurance is worth every penny.
Types of Coverage
Declared Value Coverage: This is what carriers like FedEx or UPS offer. You declare a dollar amount, and if something happens, you’ll be reimbursed up to that value. Sounds good, but the fine print can be limiting.
Fine Art Insurance: Tailored coverage specifically for artworks. It typically covers loss, theft, and damage—and often includes protection while the piece is being stored, installed, or exhibited. If your piece is valuable, this is the way to go.
Preparing Condition Reports and Photographs
Before you ship, document everything.
- Take clear, high-resolution photos of the artwork from every angle.
- Note existing scratches, chips, or marks in a condition report.
- Photograph the artwork during the packing process, so you can prove it was properly protected.
This paperwork isn’t just for peace of mind—it’s what makes insurance claims go smoothly if you ever need to file one.
Chain of Custody Documentation
Especially for galleries, museums, and collectors, keeping track of who handled the piece and when is critical.
Chain of custody documents outline the journey of the artwork—from pickup to delivery—ensuring accountability at every step. It’s basically a travel diary for your masterpiece.
Delivery & Unpacking
The finish line is in sight—your artwork’s made it across the country, and now it’s time for the big reveal.
But before you go tearing into those crates like it’s Christmas morning, slow down. The final stage is just as important as the first.
Receiving Your Artwork
- Inspect before signing: When the carrier arrives, check the exterior of the crate or box. Any dents, punctures, or signs of mishandling? Note them on the delivery receipt before signing.
- Take photos: Snap a few quick pictures of the crate as it arrives. If there’s any damage, these will be your best friend when filing claims.
Unpacking Like a Pro
- Clear a safe space: Lay down a clean blanket or tarp, and make sure there’s room to move around.
- Go layer by layer: Remove packing materials carefully. No box cutters near canvas! Scissors and patience are your best tools.
- Check the condition: Compare the artwork to your condition report and photos. Spot anything new? Document it immediately.
After the Arrival
- Save materials temporarily: Don’t toss that crate or bubble wrap just yet. If you need to return or reship the piece, having original materials can save time and money.
- Celebrate: Whether it’s hanging a new piece in your home or prepping for a gallery show, take a moment to appreciate a safe arrival.
Final Thoughts
Shipping fine arts across the USA doesn’t have to be nerve-wracking. With the right prep, smart packing, and a solid shipping plan, your masterpieces can travel safely from coast to coast without a hitch.
Whether it’s a small framed print or a massive sculpture, the key is treating your artwork like the one-of-a-kind treasure it is.
And if you’d rather skip the stress altogether?
That’s where Air7Seas comes in.
We specialize in handling fine art shipments with care—from professional packing and custom crating to insurance, white-glove delivery, and reliable tracking. Think of us as your artwork’s personal travel concierge.
Frequently Asked Question
1) What documents are required for shipping artworks from or to the USA?
If you’re shipping within the U.S., paperwork is usually minimal—just a bill of lading and any insurance documentation. For international shipments, you’ll typically need:
- A commercial invoice or pro forma invoice (with detailed description and value of the artwork)
- Export/import declarations if the piece is over a certain value
- Any permits for restricted materials (e.g., ivory, certain woods)
- Condition reports and photos (for insurance and customs purposes)
2. How much does it cost to ship fine art?
Costs vary depending on size, weight, distance, packing needs, and whether you choose white-glove service. A small framed piece might be a few hundred dollars; a large sculpture with full crating could run much higher.
3) How long does it take to ship art across the USA?
Timing depends on the method. Standard freight might take 3–7 days; white-glove or specialized shipping can be quicker or slower depending on scheduling and handling needs.
4) Can climate affect my artwork during shipping?
Yes. Extreme heat, cold, or humidity can damage paintings, prints, and sculptures. If your piece is sensitive, consider using a specialized shipper that offers climate-controlled transport to keep conditions stable.
5. What’s the safest way to ship fragile or high-value art?
White-glove services or specialized fine art shippers are best. They handle everything from custom crating to climate control and even installation, reducing risk compared to standard freight.