FedEx Art Shipping (Can You Ship, Price, Steps + More)
Are you fascinated by Monet or by Picasso? Well, there’s a good chance you’re an art connoisseur. While you may not own works by these masters, there is a good chance you have some in your collection.
If this is the case, you may find yourself needing to ship art from time to time. In this article, we’ll share tips for shipping artwork via FedEx. By the end, you’ll know how to ship and package your artwork, and how much you can pay for your artwork shipping!
Can you ship art with FedEx in 2022?
FedEx offers art shipping for recreational and professional shippers, but the company only recommends shipping art with a value of less than $1,000. Artwork should be wrapped in bubble wrap, corner protector and filler paper. The price depends on the weight and dimensions of the package, as well as the shipping distance in 2022.
For more details on shipping artwork via FedEx, such as how to properly package artwork, shipping costs, and more, keep reading this article!
How do I ship art with FedEx?
When shipping artwork through FedEx, there are two main steps that need to be taken. First, you need to declare the value of the artwork, then you need to pack and ship at a FedEx office.
Let’s take a closer look at what’s involved in these steps.
When it comes to declaring the value of a piece of art, FedEx recommends only shipping art with a maximum declared value and liability limit of less than $1,000.
If your work is worth more than this, or you need to ship museum-quality work, please contact FedEx Custom Critical.
This service offers 24/7 assistance, a dedicated truck, and extra care for your most valuable items.
Once you’ve determined the value of the artwork, pack and ship the item. We’ll provide more information on how to pack art later in this article.
However, if you have any questions, head to your nearest FedEx office for guidance on boxes, cushioning, and packaging tips.
How do I package artwork for shipping via FedEx?
How you pack your artwork for shipping depends on the type of artwork you’re shipping. Here, we’ll share the best tips for shipping art prints, paintings, and sculptures.
art prints
Put the print in a plastic sleeve to protect the artwork from any inclement weather your package may encounter while in transit.
Next, add a foam board or cardboard backing behind the artwork.
After that, insert it into a rigid envelope and put a “do not bend” label on the outside of the envelope.
If you are shipping in a mailing tube, make sure the cap is taped and that there are no moving parts inside the tube when shaking.
You can use crumpled newspaper near the end of the tube to keep the artwork from slipping inside.
Painting and Panel Art
Use a large plastic bag or stretch wrap to wrap paintings or panel art. This will protect the piece from contact with cardboard, bubble wrap, or whatever filler you are using.
Once wrapped, attach corner protectors. You can use small bubble wrap to make your own, or you can buy a special foam protector.
Next, wrap the piece in large size bubble wrap.
If the piece is particularly valuable, use cardboard or Styrofoam sheets on both sides of the canvas for an extra layer of protection.
Put your items in the box. Make sure you are using a shipping case, not a moving case. The shipping case is stronger and better for protecting the artwork during shipping.
Before closing the box, add padding to make sure the canvas doesn’t move. You can use wrapping peanuts, air cushion or kraft paper.
Pottery/Sculpture
Wrap the pottery or sculpture in a plastic bag to keep the item from getting wet.
Next, wrap the piece in newspaper and bubble wrap. If the item is fragile or high value, make sure the item has at least 2 inches of cushioning on all sides.
If you’re shipping several pieces of crockery or items with sharp tips or edges, consider wrapping them in foam board.
Put items in the shipping box and fill any empty spaces with packed peanuts, newspaper, or air cushions to prevent movement.
How much does it cost to ship a painting with FedEx?
Three main factors affect shipping costs: package weight, dimensions, and shipping distance.
With this in mind, shipping for small to medium paintings on canvas typically ranges from $10 to $50, depending on size.
In addition to these basic factors, additional declared value (similar to insurance), fuel surcharges, and additional handling charges may add $20 or more to shipping.
If you choose to use FedEx’s specially designed art shipping box, there are additional costs to consider.
Framed Art Boxes are $16 for a medium box and $18 for a large box. If you add the frangible packaging option, the final cost is $22.49 for the medium box and $24.49 for the large box.
If your items are particularly valuable or fragile, you can choose to use an art box with the Airfloat system. These boxes have a double layer construction and 3 layers of shock absorbing foam.
Prices range from $45 to $260 for the box alone, and from $60.49 to $260.00 for the fragile packaging option.
To learn more, you can also read our posts on FedEx Liquor Shipping, FedEx Laptop Shipping, and FedEx Jewelry Shipping.
in conclusion
Shipping artwork through FedEx requires understanding the value of the piece, packaging it carefully, and choosing which (if any) additional services to add. As long as you follow our advice, your work will arrive at its destination intact.
