Post and Packaging

[stripethespringer]

Hi. can anyone point me in the right direction in terms of packaging and postage?

ie what internal packaging is required for frames with glass - corner supports, bubble wrap etc and what external packaging, type of cardboard box etc.

thanks

[JFeig]

my preference for packaging materials is:

1" - 25MM or thicker rigid foam insulation --- all six sides. after packing the framed art in a plastic bag (waterproof)

covered my 2-3 layers ---- all 6 sides --- corrugated cardboard sheets

for very large art and high priced art I prefer an exterior of real timber and plywood (3/8" - 8mm) min

[Vix]

Hi

have a look at my website. The picture shipping box may be more cost effective for you than buying the individual packaging. As for carriage have a look at the fastaway couriers website.

Vix

[Moglet]

Hi Stripe, and welcome!

Just a note about shipping. Double-check what insurance cover is available for the methods you investigate. For example, Fastway in Ireland cover a maximum of only €400!! Also, double-check policies for shipping items with glass, as breakages may not be covered at all.

[zanart]

Fastway Uk insurance cover is £0

[CanvasChris]

I use DHL & UPS among others..and as soon as you mention anything to do with 'pictures' 'art' etc.. etc... then the insurance is void.

Is this not the case with all couriers?

[markw]

I make a foamcore box to protect the picture - then wrap that in bubblewrap - several layers. The package is then wrapped in brown paper. I use Royal Mail Parcelforce for most packages - they dont cover glass.

For very valuable stuff I would look for a local courier who could promise me that it gets taken from me and personally delivered by the same man - I have a courier near me who does that - great service but very expensive.

I dont send lots of parcels, but if I did I would keep a stock of the ready made boxes (earlier posting). Some things I wouldn't send - Pastels - heavy objects in a case - in other words anything capable of self destuction if not handled carefully. Its also worth using sellotape strips on glass - if it breaks it stands some chance of not destroying the media.

I have had some very bad experiences when sending stuff abroad - especially America - its normally down to customs and excise opening the parcel and not re wrapping properly.

[markw]

Should have added that packing a parcel is expensive and time consuming - and you need to charge appropriately. Most of the stuff I send costs about £15 postage. It costs me that in time and materials to pack it. Customers dont like a £30 charge for posting.