When you sell a piece through The Online Art Gallery, you’re not just sending art - you’re sending a part of yourself. Safe packaging is essential to make sure your work arrives in perfect condition, whether it’s travelling across town or halfway around the world.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help artists prepare their work for shipping:

1. Choose the Right Packaging Materials
   Invest in quality materials designed to protect fragile items. Consider using:
   • Acid-free tissue paper or brown wrapping paper (to protect the surface of your artwork).
   • Bubble wrap or foam sheets.
   • Sturdy cardboard sheets or corner protectors.
   • Double-walled shipping boxes or mailing tubes (for rolled works).
   • Fragile tape and strong packing tape.
   • Clear tape to cover and protect the address shipping label.

2. Prepare the Artwork
   • Paintings on canvas: Cover the surface with acid-free tissue or brown wrapping paper, then wrap in bubble wrap. Add corner protectors to prevent damage.
   • Framed works under glass: Use masking tape to create an “X” across the glass to reduce shattering. Wrap with bubble wrap and foam for extra cushioning.
   • Paper works or prints: Place in a protective sleeve, then sandwich between sturdy cardboard. Alternatively, roll carefully into a mailing tube, but avoid rolling fragile or thick paper.
   • Sculptures or 3D works: Wrap each piece in several layers of bubble wrap, then place in a box with foam peanuts or air cushions to prevent movement.

3. Double Box for Extra Security
   Where possible, place your wrapped artwork inside a snug-fitting inner box, then put that box into a larger, well-padded outer box. This extra layer is invaluable, especially for long-distance or international shipping.

4. Insurance - Don’t Skip It
   Many postal and courier services offer insurance as part of the postage price, while others allow you to add it on for a small fee. This can provide peace of mind for both artist and buyer, covering loss or damage during transit. Always check the maximum coverage limit and make sure it reflects the value of your work. For higher-value artworks, consider choosing a premium courier service with extended insurance options.

5. Label Clearly
   Mark the package with:
   • “FRAGILE – HANDLE WITH CARE” or use tape printed ‘Fragile’.
   • “THIS WAY UP” if orientation matters.
   • The buyers name, phone number and address should be marked clearly on one side of the package and if attaching a hand-made address label, run some clear tape over the top to protect it from peeling or the ink ‘running’ if wet.

6. Insure and Track Your Package
   When selling through The Online Art Gallery, artists are solely responsible for shipping. Always choose a delivery service that offers tracking and be sure to share this information with the buyer and email details to: info@theonlineartgallery.com.au. Great postage providers include Australia Post, DHL, FedEx, and Pack and Send to name a few.
   Note. Some carriers, like Australia Post will only ship packages up to a certain size and some companies will even pick up from your home or studio.

7. Think Global (If Shipping Internationally)
   • Be aware of customs forms and declarations.
   • Check restricted/prohibited items for the destination country.
   • Factor in longer transit times and sturdier packing for overseas deliveries.

Final Tips from The Online Art Gallery
• Don’t skimp on materials - the cost of replacing a damaged artwork far outweighs the cost of quality packaging. Places like Officeworks offer a wide variety of packing materials where as stores like The Good Guys can offer free large boxes that are recycled from large white goods deliveries.
• Reuse packaging where possible, but make sure it’s in excellent condition.
• Photos of the packing process (layer by layer) can be helpful should you need to make a claim if damaged in transit.
• Communicate with your buyer: let them know when the artwork has shipped and provide tracking details.
• Include a thank you card or business card for a friendly, professional touch.

At The Online Art Gallery, we want every artist’s work to arrive safely and every buyer to feel the joy of unwrapping a beautiful, perfectly protected piece. Thoughtful packaging ensures your art is showcased as it was meant to be - in pristine condition.