The first step in shipping artwork of any shape, size and material is to consider the following:

• The size and materials of the arwork.
• Distance of the move
• Who will transport and how will they do it
• The value of the piece

Next, gather the required materials: bubble wrap, cardboard, polyethylene foam, packing peanuts, foamcore, plastic sheets, tissue paper and tape. You can purchase these from a moving supply store or ask your local art supply store for suggestions.

To pack unframed paintings and prints:

1. Try not to touching the actual work. Oils on your skin can alter the paper. Use tissue paper or photography gloves.
2. Wrap the piece in tissue paper, acid free if possible. For additional protection against moisture, wrap the artwork with plastic.
3. Fold four pieces of paper into triangles with one side open, then place the triangles on each corner of the work. These help secure the piece to a strong backing material.
4. Taping only on the paper corners you just made, mount your wrapped piece to the backing material of your choice. Sturdy cardboard or foamcore are recommended.
5. Place a few layers of cardboard on both sides of the newly secured piece. Tape these pieces together.
6. The final piece of the packaging is the outside cover. Take two pieces of corrugated cardboard, place the piece in between them and securely tape all sides. A mirror box can be used if you want more protection.

Packaging framed artwork is even easier, with the proper supplies:

1. Find a box the piece can fit the piece or create one that can from smaller boxes. Ensure 3 inches of spaces is available on all sides of the frame.
2. Wrap you artwork with tissue paper or fabric to protect if from the bubble wrap.
3. Wrap the piece in bubble wrap, ensuring adequate coverage on the corners since they are most susceptible to damage during transport.
4. Place a layer of packing peanuts, foam or your packaging material of choice in the box, creating a layer to rest the frame on.
5. Pack all open areas surrounding the piece with packing material. The more snug the fit, the less the potential for damage.

For both methods, remember to properly insure the piece if necessary and to clearly mark the box as fragile.