It is possible to ship framed oil paintings without damage.
Shipping an oil painting is not the preferred method of transporting art. The safest way to transport art is to have a professional art studio deliver the art directly to the recipient. However, this is not always an option. If you take care when shipping oil paintings, the chances of it arriving safely at the intended destination are much higher. Follow all packing and shipping guidelines to prevent damage to the paintings.
Instructions
1. Fill the bottom of a picture box with packing paper. Add about 1 or 2 inches of loosely crumpled paper to the bottom of the box.
2. Wrap the painting in tissue paper. Wrap the oil painting and frame in four layers of bubble wrap. Tape the edges of the bubble wrap around the corners of the frame.
3. Place the painting in the box. Fill any additional space in the box with more crumpled paper. The painting should not be able to shift much in the box. The more the painting can move, the higher the chances for damage.
4. Tape the top of the box together. Write "Fragile Art Work" on the top and side of the box.
5. Insure the package for the full value of the art. This cost will vary by the value of the painting. Send the oil painting through two or one-day shipping. Longer shipping times increase the chance for damage, either through the oil melting under the heat or by general handling damage.
