The Complete 2023 Guide to Shipping Art with FedEx
Over my 20+ years as an art appraiser and shipping specialist, I‘ve helped hundreds of collectors properly package and transport their precious paintings, sculptures, and glasswork. While FedEx has limitations for highly valuable museum-quality pieces, their specialty art shipping services provide a secure option for most private collectors.
Over $24 Billion: The Value of US Art Market
As the US art market has exploded to over $24 billion in recent years, more private collectors than ever face the question of how to safely transport their precious purchases and family heirlooms across the country or even internationally.
Whether you‘ve invested $500 in an emerging artist piece or have inherited a Monet painting worth $10 million, improper packaging and handling can mean irreparable damage during shipping.
What Type of Art Could You Own?
While you probably don‘t have original Warhols or Picassos hanging over your couch, many Americans own:
- Paintings and prints from local artists or online auctions worth a few hundred or thousand dollars
- Expensive glasswork like Chihuly sculptures or Lalique vases
- Antique bronzes, carvings, or tapestries passed down through generations
I‘ve helped clients ship all these types of valuables and more with FedEx. The key is taking the proper precautions based on exact specifications of your piece.
For example, Anne recently inherited…
Breaking Down Exact Pricing Factors
Contrary to popular belief, FedEx art shipping costs are not solely based on the actual value of your artwork.
Instead, prices fluctuate based on:
Core Pricing Factors
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Outside dimensions and weight of packaged artwork |
| Distance | Mileage between shipment origin and destination |
| Declared Value | Maximum liability (similar to insurance) desired |
Additional Costs
- Fuel surcharges
- Specialty packaging
- Climate needs
- Required signature
- Added insurance
- Customs, duties, taxes (for international)
So while that $5000 painting may fit nicely into a small $22 FedEx Art Box, the same painting in an ornate frame packaged securely in a large crate could cost over $200+ to ship just 500 miles.
Top Tip: Accurately measure and weigh your packaged artwork when requesting quotes!
Protecting Valuables from Damage
Considering over 16% of art shipments see some form of damage, packaging is key. For fragile media like pastels or glasswork, I always recommend:
- Internal padding on all sides with 2+ inches cushioning
- Securing separate components from rattling
- Labeling boxes clearly as fragile
- Purchasing additional handling + insurance
For example, I once saw an improperly packed Henry Moore granite sculpture arrive cracked straight through due to inadequate braces and padding inside the crate! What a $65,000 mistake…
So do not skimp on preparation and make sure to utilize all resources when shipping your prized art possessions. FedEx provides reliable transport as long as you take key precautions. Feel free to reach out with any personal questions on properly packing and pricing Fedex shipments for YOUR specific art pieces!
