Cheapest Way To Ship Framed Art

As an aficionado of the arts, are you on the lookout for the most cost-effective approach to dispatch your cherished framed artwork? 

Shipping artwork can be a formidable undertaking, particularly if you’re working within a budget.

Nonetheless, with thorough groundwork and research, you can find economical and dependable shipping alternatives for your precious possessions. 

Therefore, whether you’re a seasoned artist or a fervent collector of art, continue reading to gain insight into the optimal ways of shipping your framed pieces.

Cheapest Way To Ship Framed Art

We’ll explore five of the cheapest ways to ship framed art and their respective costs, so you can make an informed decision and save some money in the process.

USPS (United States Postal Service)

USPS is a popular choice for shipping framed art due to its affordability and reliability.

They offer several shipping options, including Priority Mail, Priority Mail Express, and First-Class Mail. 

Priority Mail starts at $7.70 and provides two-day delivery, while Priority Mail Express starts at $26.35 and provides overnight delivery.

First-Class Mail is the most affordable option, starting at just $3.01, but it’s also the slowest, with delivery times ranging from two to five days.

UPS (United Parcel Service)

UPS is another great option for shipping framed art, with competitive pricing and a variety of services to choose from. 

Their Ground service is the most affordable, starting at $14.61, but it can take up to five days for delivery.

For faster delivery, you can opt for their 2nd Day Air service, which starts at $58.12, or their Next Day Air service, which starts at $87.33.

FedEx

FedEx is a reliable and trusted shipping company that offers a range of services for shipping framed art.

Their most affordable option is their FedEx Ground service, which starts at $12.45 and provides three to five-day delivery. 

For faster delivery, you can choose their 2Day service, starting at $41.20, or their Overnight service, starting at $62.05.

DHL

DHL is a global shipping company that provides affordable shipping options for framed art. Their most affordable option is their DHL eCommerce service, which starts at $6.99 and provides delivery in three to eight days. 

For faster delivery, you can opt for their DHL Express service, which starts at $27.68 and provides delivery within one to three days.

Greyhound Package Express

Greyhound Package Express is a lesser-known shipping option for framed art, but it can be a great choice if you’re on a tight budget. 

Their prices start at just $30 for packages up to 100 pounds, and delivery times vary depending on the distance.

It’s worth noting that Greyhound only delivers to their own stations, so you may need to arrange for additional shipping or pick-up at the destination.

Best Way to Ship Paintings

Here, we will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the best way to ship paintings.

Proper Packaging Materials

The first step to ensuring your painting arrives safely is proper packaging.

Begin by wrapping the painting in acid-free paper, and then bubble wrap. 

Next, place the wrapped painting between two pieces of cardboard and tape securely.

Place this package in a sturdy cardboard box, and fill any empty space with packing peanuts or bubble wrap. 

Close the box and seal with high-quality shipping tape.

Choose the Right Shipping Carrier

Choosing the right shipping carrier is crucial to ensuring the safe delivery of your painting.

It’s essential to select a carrier with experience in handling artwork, such as FedEx or UPS. 

Additionally, consider insuring your package to protect it in the event of damage or loss.

Labeling and Shipping Information

Proper labeling is important for shipping any package, but especially artwork.

Clearly label the box with “Fragile” and “This Side Up” markings. Also, include your contact information and the recipient’s information on the outside of the box.

International Shipping

Shipping artwork internationally adds an additional layer of complexity.

Research the import/export regulations and duties for the destination country.

Additionally, consider hiring a customs broker to help navigate the process.

Framed vs. Unframed

Framed paintings require extra care when packaging and shipping. Remove the glass and wrap it separately to prevent breakage. 

Place the framed painting in a custom crate to protect it during transport.

Unframed paintings are easier to ship and can be packaged using the same method as described above.

Temperature and Humidity Control

Extreme temperatures and humidity can damage artwork during shipping.

Ensure the painting is stored in a temperature-controlled environment before shipping. 

Additionally, consider adding temperature and humidity sensors to the packaging to monitor conditions during transit.

Handling Damage

Even with proper packaging and shipping, damage can still occur during transit.

In the event of damage, document the condition of the package upon receipt and take photos of any damage.

File a claim with the carrier immediately.

Alternatives to Shipping

In some cases, shipping may not be the best option. Consider hand-delivery or using a specialized art shipping service for valuable or delicate pieces.

Cheapest Way To Ship A Painting

We’ll explore the cheapest way to ship a painting, including recommended companies that specialize in art shipping.

Step 1: Determine the Best Shipping Method

Before you can find the cheapest way to ship a painting, you’ll need to decide on the best shipping method based on the size, weight, and fragility of your artwork.

The most common options include:

USPS: 

The United States Postal Service (USPS) is a popular choice for small to medium-sized paintings.

They offer affordable rates for ground shipping, as well as priority and express mail options.

UPS: 

UPS is another reliable option for shipping paintings.

They offer ground, air, and international shipping, as well as options for expedited delivery.

FedEx: 

FedEx is a great option for larger paintings, as they can handle items up to 119 inches in length and girth combined.

They offer a range of shipping options, including ground, air, and international shipping.

ShipSmart: 

ShipSmart is a company that specializes in art shipping.

They offer custom crating and packing services, as well as door-to-door delivery.

While their rates may be higher than other options, they offer a higher level of protection and handling.

Step 2: Properly Pack and Prepare Your Painting

Once you’ve chosen the best shipping method, it’s essential to properly pack and prepare your painting to avoid damage during transit. This includes:

Use protective materials: 

Cover the painting with a layer of glassine paper or bubble wrap to protect the surface.

Use cardboard or foam to provide a cushion between the painting and the box.

Choose the right box: 

Use a sturdy, double-walled cardboard box that’s slightly larger than the painting.

Add packing peanuts or crumpled paper to fill any empty space in the box.

Label and seal the box: 

Clearly label the box with your contact information and the recipient’s information.

Use packing tape to seal the box securely.

Step 3: Compare Shipping Rates and Choose the Best Option

Once your painting is properly packed and prepared, it’s time to compare shipping rates and choose the best option. 

Be sure to consider factors such as delivery time, insurance coverage, and handling fees

We recommend the following companies for art shipping:

USPS: 

Great for small to medium-sized paintings that don’t require special handling.

They offer affordable rates and reliable service.

UPS: 

Reliable for a range of painting sizes and shipping needs.

They offer a variety of shipping options and insurance coverage.

FedEx: 

Best for larger paintings and international shipping.

They have the capacity to handle larger items and offer a range of shipping options.

ShipSmart: 

Ideal for valuable or fragile artwork that requires special handling and protection.

They offer custom crating and packing services and door-to-door delivery.

Cheapest Way to Ship Paintings

There are several ways to ship your artwork that won’t break the bank.

Here, we will explore the cheapest way to ship paintings while still ensuring their safety and security during transport.

Use Standard Shipping Services

One of the most affordable ways to ship paintings is by using standard shipping services.

Companies like FedEx, UPS, and USPS offer standard shipping options that are cost-effective and reliable. 

With these services, you can ship your artwork in a box or tube, depending on its size, and have it delivered within the given timeframe.

• When using standard shipping services, it is essential to package your painting correctly to ensure its safety during transport. 

• Use bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or foam to protect the artwork from any impact during shipping. 

• You can also use a sturdy cardboard box or tube that fits the size of the painting to prevent it from moving around during transport.

Ship Through a Postal Service

Another affordable way to ship paintings is by using postal services.

Many postal services offer flat rate boxes that can accommodate different painting sizes. 

You can also use their standard shipping options, which are cost-effective and reliable.

When shipping through a postal service, you need to ensure that your painting is properly packaged to prevent any damage during transport. 

Use bubble wrap, foam, or packing peanuts to protect the artwork from impact, and choose a sturdy box that fits the painting size.

Use Art Shipping Companies

Art shipping companies specialize in shipping artwork, making them an excellent option for shipping paintings. 

These companies offer a range of services that cater to different painting sizes and types, ensuring the safety and security of the artwork during transport.

While art shipping companies can be more expensive than standard shipping services, they offer specialized packaging and handling services that protect your artwork from damage. 

They also provide insurance coverage for your painting during transport, which gives you peace of mind knowing that your artwork is safe and protected.

Utilize Freight Services

If you need to ship large paintings, freight services can be an affordable option.

Freight services are ideal for paintings that are too large to fit in a standard box or tube. 

These services offer different shipping options that cater to different painting sizes and types.

When using freight services, ensure that your painting is properly packaged to prevent any damage during transport. 

Use bubble wrap, foam, or packing peanuts to protect the artwork from impact, and choose a sturdy crate that fits the painting size.

Check for Discounts and Promotions

Many shipping companies offer discounts and promotions that can help you save money when shipping paintings. 

Check for any ongoing promotions or discounts that may apply to your shipment to reduce your shipping costs.

FAQ

Conclusion

Shipping artwork that has been framed does not have to cost an exorbitant amount. 

Through careful consideration of various factors including dimensions, mass, and endpoint, one can determine the most economical and efficient manner in which to transport artwork without sacrificing its security and worth. 

With the option to select a major shipping company such as USPS, FedEx, or UPS, or even a third-party shipping entity, one can simultaneously save money and guarantee the artwork’s delivery in impeccable condition. 

There is no need to wait any longer; commence the packaging and shipment of your framed artwork with assurance today.