Do you ship paintings for your gallery, sell art online, or organize traveling exhibitions? Transporting artwork is the leading cause of damage, well ahead of theft or fire. A frame that cracks on impact, a canvas torn by unsuitable packaging, an oil painting damaged by humidity during transit: every packaging mistake jeopardizes years of creation and thousands of dollars. This guide gives you the 10 PRO steps for packing paintings, canvases, and sculptures with the exact materials used by specialized carriers and museums. Bonus: you'll discover how to protect your works up to $100,000 with compensation within 72 hours, regardless of the Carrier.
The major risks involved in transporting works of art
Before diving into packing techniques, it is important to understand why transporting artwork is so delicate. Sedgwick claims experts confirm that the majority of claims occur during transport, packing, or unpacking, with very few total losses but many partial losses requiring restoration and depreciation.
Structural damage to the frame and chassis
Even a minor impact is enough to crack a picture frame (CAP Express). Corners are the first to break during handling, especially on solid wood frames or fragile gold moldings. Continuous vibrations during transport can also loosen mortise-and-tenon joints.
Source: CAP Express – How to transport works of art
Alteration of the painted surface
Oil and acrylic paints react differently to changes in temperature and humidity. An old canvas may develop cracks if exposed to sudden movements, while recent paintings may stick to bubble wrap if it is applied directly to the still semi-dry paint layer.
Thermal shocks and humidity
The organic components of paint (linseed oil, gum arabic) are sensitive to fluctuations in relative humidity (RH). Transporting a work of art in a non-air-conditioned truck in summer can cause its temperature to rise from 20°C to 45°C in a matter of hours, causing the frame to expand, the varnish to peel, or premature yellowing.
Repeated load breaks and handling
Each transfer increases the risks. Specialized carriers such as Perceval-Express favor transport without transshipment using dedicated "parcel taxi" vehicles to limit handling that could damage the works.
Source: Perceval-Express – Transport of paintings
⚠️ Fact: Only 15 to 20% of collectors insure their artworks (GSA Assurances 2025). Standard home insurance policies often cap compensation at between €1,000 and €5,000, which is inadequate for gallery-quality paintings.
PRO packaging materials for paintings & works of art
The packaging consists of three successive layers made from specific non-acidic, non-electrostatic materials that are capable of absorbing shocks while regulating humidity.
Sources: RAJA France – Transport packaging for works of art, Demeco – Transport of works of art, ICC Canada – Notes on packing paintings
💡 PRO tip: pH-neutral tissue paper (acid-free muslin) MUST be used as the first layer to prevent the paint from yellowing over time. NEVER use ordinary kraft paper directly on the canvas: it is acidic and will irreversibly stain light-colored pigments.
What should you do if your artwork arrives damaged after delivery?
Even with perfect packaging, accidents happen. Here is the exact process to maximize your chances of quick compensation.
Check for damage BEFORE signing the delivery slip.
CRITICISM: If the package shows signs of impact (crushed cardboard, tears, re-taped tape), refuse delivery OR sign with specific reservations: "Package damaged – crushed corners – opening subject to inspection." Take photos of the package before opening it with the delivery person present. Signing without reservation drastically reduces your recourse against the Carrier.
Open the package and document any damage.
Methodical unpacking while filming or photographing each step: outer packaging, successive layers of protection, condition of the work. Note precisely: torn canvas (location, size of tear), split frame (affected corner), scratched paint (depth of scratches), broken glass (shards on the canvas?), warped stretcher.
Comparison of art transportation insurance solutions
Sources: Perceval-Express rates for 2025, Claisy claims analysis 2024-2025
💡 Claisy advantage: Unlike specialized carriers who require their own crates and packaging (costing €150-400 per custom-made wooden crate), Claisy accepts your packaging as long as it complies with professional standards. You are free to choose your Carrier Colissimo, Chronopost, DHL, Carrier ) while benefiting from full coverage.
To go further
- Complete guide to packing fragile items – General principles applicable to all sectors
- 2026 E-commerce Insurance Comparison – Solutions for Galleries Selling Online
- E-commerce delivery dispute management – Carrier complaint procedures
- Claisy Ad Valorem Insurance – €100,000 coverage for all carriers
- Claisy API integration – Insurance automation for e-commerce galleries