Shipping fine art internationally with courier services
Find an affordable and reliable fine art courier transport service with Eurosender. We can match your requirements for speed and quality with the right solution. Get an instant quote for shipping or transporting fine art internationally by courier and follow our guidelines on how to pack fine art for shipping. Benefit from expert advice from our logistics specialists whenever you need it.
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HOW TO SHIP
Fine art international shipping via courier
HOW TO PACK
Preparation guidelines for international fine art shipping
Please note that you will be responsible for packing your fine art for transport. Check the general tips below to help you get started:
- Make a note of any pre-existing marks on each piece of artwork. Take a few photos of each item as proof of its condition before shipping.
- Clean and dust the fine art pieces before packing, and remove hanging hooks if possible.
- Wear clean gloves when handling the art pieces, to avoid smudging or damage.
- Valuable paintings, especially oil paintings, should not be rolled as this may crack the paint itself and ruin the finish.
- Label every art piece clearly and carefully.
How to pack framed art
- Get a sturdy cardboard box or wooden crate in which the art piece fits comfortably. A local art gallery may be able to supply you with a crate designed for fine art.
- Wrap the painting with acid-free tissue paper.
- Wrap in bubble wrap, paying particular attention to the frame corners.
- Place a layer of foam inside the box for the frame to rest on.
- Fill empty spaces around the piece with cushioning material to minimise shifting during transport.
- You can add warning labels on the outside such as “fragile” or “this side up”.
How to pack unframed art
To make sure the art piece is safe for transport, the best option is to “build a frame” for it to protect it during the shipping process. Here is how to do it:
- Fold four sheets of acid-free tissue paper into triangles with one side left open, and place the triangles onto the four corners of the piece.
- Mount onto sturdy cardboard, make sure you tape only onto the paper corners.
- Place two layers of cardboard over both sides of the fine art piece, and tape together.
- Using two pieces of corrugated cardboard, place the piece in the middle and apply tape on all sides.
- Fill empty spaces around the piece with cushioning material to minimise shifting during transport.
- You can add warning labels on the outside such as “fragile” or “this side up”.
RECOMMENDED
The best fine art transport service: Van Delivery
If you are transporting fine art within Europe, for example to or from an art gallery, we recommend choosing Van Delivery as it is the fastest and safest way of transporting artworks and paintings. You get a van dedicated to your shipment, and delivered directly without any stopovers. With Van Delivery, you can pack and protect the items as you wish. You do not have to fulfil any packing requirements from the courier, but we still recommend packing your fine art safely for shipping internationally.
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More information about transporting or shipping fine art internationally
Can I book fine art international shipping services with all courier companies?
It is important to note that not all courier companies will ship fine art internationally. For example, DHL, TNT and UPS will not ship packages that contain high-value artworks within the content. The price definition of “high-value” is determined by each logistics company individually, along with the specific rules and requirements for their services, so we recommend checking this further with the designated courier for your route. When booking the Express or Priority shipping services, please make sure not to include these items as the courier will refuse to collect the parcel. If you need further assistance, you can reach us by chat, phone or email before shipping to discuss your options.
How much does it cost to ship fine art by courier?
The cost for sending fine art depends on the size and weight of the shipment, the route and the shipping service you select for transporting your fine art. You can get an instant quote by inserting your information in the booking tool below.
How do I pack fine art for moving?
When packing fine art for moving, the guidelines depend on the service you choose.
- With the Standard Service, all items must be packed in boxes, while Freight Transport requires pallets for shipping.
- If you are relocating with larger artworks or oddly-shaped items such as sculptures, we recommend requesting an individual offer. Enter your shipping details, and our experts will prepare a tailor-made offer for the best available price.
- The Van Delivery Service is the most recommended service for moving fine art and the only option that does not have strict packing requirements.
Is there insurance for international fine art shipping?
Almost all shipments with Eurosender are covered by basic insurance, however this does not apply to artwork of high value. Most courier companies determine a threshold value for the items they allow to be transported, which usually corresponds to the insurance coverage available. If your item falls below this threshold and is not considered valuable or fragile, it may be covered by shipping insurance. However, if your item exceeds the threshold value, you should be aware that you will be sending it at your own risk and the shipping insurance will not be applicable.