How to Package High-Value Paintings for Safe Shipping

Paintings are valuable not just in monetary terms, but often also emotionally and culturally. When shipping a high-value painting, it’s crucial to protect it from potential damage by following the proper steps. With ShipSimple Shipping Insurance, you're covered, but by taking extra care with your packaging, you ensure your painting arrives safely at its destination. Be sure to document each step with photos to provide proof that you've followed these instructions and to set yourself up for success in case a claim is necessary.

Step 1: Gather Specialized Packaging Materials
Paintings, especially those with delicate surfaces or intricate frames, require specific materials for proper protection:

• Glassine Paper: Use acid-free, non-abrasive glassine paper to protect the painted surface.
• Foam Corners: Pre-made foam corners will safeguard the edges of the painting or frame from impact.
• Bubble Wrap: Heavy-duty bubble wrap provides cushioning and prevents movement.
• Rigid Cardboard Sheets or Plywood: This will add structure and prevent bending or warping of the painting during transit.
• Custom Shipping Box or Crate: Choose a sturdy, custom-sized box or create a wooden crate for particularly valuable or large pieces.

Take a photo: Before starting, take a picture of all your packaging materials to show that you’ve prepared for each step.

Step 2: Protect the Painted Surface
Lay a sheet of glassine paper over the painted surface. This will prevent the artwork from coming into direct contact with any other material. Glassine is ideal because it won't stick to oil paints or other mediums.

Take a photo: Once the glassine paper is applied, take a photo to show the protected surface.

Step 3: Secure the Frame with Foam Corners
Place foam corner protectors on all four corners of the painting or frame. These protect the vulnerable edges from knocks and bumps during transit.

Take a photo: Capture the painting with foam corners applied.

Step 4: Wrap the Painting in Bubble Wrap
After applying the corner protectors, wrap the entire painting in two to three layers of bubble wrap. Focus on ensuring that the entire surface, including the sides and back, is fully protected.

Take a photo: After wrapping the painting in bubble wrap, take a picture to document this step.

Step 5: Use Cardboard or Plywood for Extra Protection
For high-value paintings, we recommend adding an extra layer of protection. Sandwich the painting between two pieces of rigid cardboard or plywood. For smaller paintings, cardboard is often sufficient; for larger or heavier pieces, plywood is the safer choice.

Take a photo: Photograph the secured painting between the two rigid layers.

Step 6: Cushion the Shipping Box
Before placing the painting in the box, line the bottom with at least two inches of cushioning material such as foam, air pillows, or foam peanuts. This provides a protective buffer.

Take a photo: Take a picture of the cushioned bottom of the box before placing the painting inside.

Step 7: Place the Painting in the Box
Carefully place the painting in the box, ensuring that it sits securely in the middle and doesn't touch the sides. Add cushioning material around the painting, filling any gaps to prevent movement.

Take a photo: Show the painting in the box, fully surrounded by cushioning material.

Step 8: Seal the Box and Double-Box for Extra Protection
Once the painting is securely cushioned, seal the box with strong packing tape, paying special attention to the seams. For extra protection, especially for large or very valuable paintings, consider placing the entire box inside a second, larger box, adding cushioning material between the two layers (the double-boxing method).

Take a photo: Take a picture of the sealed box before adding any labels.

Step 9: Label and Add Special Instructions
Clearly label the package with “Fragile – Artwork” and indicate the top of the package with arrows or “This Side Up” labels. Include any special handling instructions that might be necessary.
Take a photo: Take a final picture of the labeled and secured box.

Step 10: Photograph and Track
Ensure you’ve documented each stage of the packing process, and make sure to include photos of the finished, labeled package. This documentation will help ensure a smooth claims process if an issue arises.

By following these steps and photographing each stage, you’re giving your painting the best chance of arriving in perfect condition while meeting ShipSimple’s insurance guidelines. This thorough preparation not only helps protect your valuable artwork but also sets you up for success with your shipping insurance coverage.