Sending art in the mail

The thrill of sending art in the mail! It's a great way to share your creative work with others, whether it's a gift, a submission to a competition, or simply to spread some joy. Here are some tips to help you send your art safely and efficiently:

Packing and Shipping

  1. Use sturdy packaging: Choose a box or envelope that is specifically designed for shipping art. You can use a box with a sturdy cardboard base, or a mailing tube for larger or more fragile pieces.
  2. Wrap your art carefully: Wrap your art in acid-free tissue paper, bubble wrap, or foam core to prevent damage during transit. You can also use a cardboard tube or a rigid plastic sleeve to protect fragile pieces.
  3. Secure with tape: Use packing tape or masking tape to secure your art in place. Make sure the tape doesn't damage the artwork or the packaging.
  4. Add padding: Fill any empty spaces in the box with packing peanuts, bubble wrap, or crumpled paper to prevent your art from shifting during transit.
  5. Seal the box: Close the box and seal it with packing tape. Make sure the box is securely closed to prevent contents from spilling out during transit.

Choosing a Shipping Method

  1. USPS: The United States Postal Service (USPS) is a popular choice for shipping art. They offer a range of services, including Priority Mail, Priority Mail Express, and First Class Mail.
  2. UPS: United Parcel Service (UPS) is another option for shipping art. They offer a range of services, including UPS Ground, UPS 3-Day Select, and UPS Next Day Air.
  3. FedEx: FedEx is a good choice for shipping larger or more valuable art pieces. They offer a range of services, including FedEx Ground, FedEx Express Saver, and FedEx Priority Overnight.

Additional Tips

  1. Get insurance: Consider purchasing insurance to protect your art against loss or damage during transit.
  2. Keep a record: Keep a record of your shipment, including the tracking number, shipping method, and estimated delivery date.
  3. Communicate with the recipient: Make sure the recipient knows when to expect the art and what to do if it arrives damaged.
  4. Check local regulations: Check with your local post office or shipping carrier to see if there are any specific regulations or restrictions on shipping art in your area.

Special Considerations

  1. Fragile or valuable art: If you're shipping fragile or valuable art, consider using a specialized shipping service or consulting with a professional art handler.
  2. Large or oversized art: If you're shipping large or oversized art, you may need to use a specialized shipping service or consult with a professional art handler.
  3. International shipping: If you're shipping art internationally, be sure to check with the recipient's country to see if there are any specific regulations or restrictions on importing art.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your art arrives safely and efficiently at its destination. Happy shipping!