PACKAGING GUIDELINES
SUCCESSFUL SALE: REQUIRED ACTIONS
You are responsible for the logistics and shipping the artwork within 7 days of sale.
Email Notification:
You’ll receive an email from Moné Gallery confirming your artwork has been sold. This email will include:
- Details about the sold artwork.
- Information to create the shipping label.
- The instructions link to this page for shipping and packaging.
Acknowledgment Required: You must reply by email to confirm you have read and understood the Moné Art Packaging Guidelines below, which detail the requirements for properly packaging your artwork to ensure safe transit.
Costs and Responsibilities
Buyer’s Responsibility:
- Shipping Policy At the time of purchase, the buyer pays the quoted shipping and handling fee, which is included in your payout. This quote will include estimated costs for shipping, handling fees, insurance, packaging, and any additional charges, which will be added to your payout. Buyers will enquire to obtain a quote before completing their purchase.
- Taxes, Customs Duties, and Other Fees: Buyers are responsible for any applicable taxes, customs duties, or other fees that may arise due to the shipping location or import regulations.
Artist’s Responsibility:
Shipping Label & Insurance:
- Create the Shipping Label: After receiving notification that your artwork has sold, immediately create a shipping label with your shipping provider.
- Purchase Full Insurance: If the shipping provider only insures artworks up to a certain percentage of their value, the Artist must secure additional insurance: either through the shipping provider, if available, or from an external insurer: to cover the artwork’s full sale price.
- Note: The shipping label and insurance should be purchased for the full value of the artwork before you ship the painting. This guarantees your artwork is fully protected during shipping.
The artist will be reimbursed for shipping and insurance costs once the receipts are provided and the buyer confirms that they have received the artwork in good condition, or when any issues are resolved. We are committed to handling everything fairly and will do our best to resolve any issues promptly so that the artist is reimbursed without delay.
Courier Pickup:
- Schedule Pickup: After creating the shipping label and purchasing insurance, schedule the shipping courier pickup within 2-3 days of receiving the sale notification.
- Be Present for Pickup: On the scheduled date, make sure you are present to hand over the artwork to the courier, along with all the shipping documents (labels, insurance information, etc.).
- Hand Over Shipping Documents: Double-check that all required labels and shipping documents are included and handed to the courier to avoid delays.
Tracking Number:
- Send Moné Gallery the Tracking Number: Once the shipping label has been created and the courier has been scheduled, email Moné Gallery with the tracking number immediately after it’s available.
- Moné Gallery will use this tracking number to update the buyer on the progress of the shipment, ensuring they are kept informed at all times.
Certificate of Authenticity:
- Include a signed Certificate of Authenticity inside the package with your artwork. This certificate verifies the authenticity and originality of the artwork, offering the buyer added assurance and confidence in their purchase.
Proper Packaging:
- Follow Packaging Guidelines: Ensure the artwork is packaged according to the Moné Art Packaging Guidelines to safely protect it during transit. Use appropriate packaging materials such as bubble wrap, corner protectors, rigid boxes, etc., to avoid damage.
- Responsibility for Damages: You, as the artist, are responsible for ensuring the artwork is packaged correctly. If damage occurs due to improper packaging, you will be held financially liable for the damages.
Timely Communication:
- If you do not respond to the sale notification within 48 hours, Moné Gallery’s Support Team will contact you via phone and email.
Customs Delays:
- For international shipments, delays at customs may happen. Moné Gallery will monitor progress and update the buyer throughout the process.
Payment Timeline:
- Payments are issued on the last day of the month after the artwork is delivered.
A 7-day confirmation period ensures the buyer has received the artwork in good condition.
Moné assumes no liability for any damage, loss, theft, or other issues that may arise during the shipping process. All responsibility rests solely with the artist. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Failure to purchase adequate shipping insurance that covers the full retail value of the artwork.
- Improper packaging that fails to protect the artwork during transit.
- Any damage, loss, or delays caused by the courier or external circumstances.
Important: By proceeding with a sale through the Gallery, you acknowledge and accept full responsibility for ensuring the safe packaging, insurance, and delivery of your artwork. Any financial loss or damages incurred during transit are the sole responsibility of the artist.
THE IMPORTANCE OF PROPER PACKAGING
Artwork can be subjected to various conditions and handled by multiple parties during shipment, so it is crucial to package your work carefully. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your artwork arrives safely and in excellent condition.
If you're uncertain about the best way to package your artwork, feel free to reach out to us via email at info@monegallery.com.
1. Common causes of damage:
- Surface abrasions due to improper wrapping or padding. Always wrap your artwork with archival tissue/glassine, followed by a waterproof layer, and use ample padding (such as bubble wrap) to protect the surface.
- Loose packaging. If the artwork isn’t secure, it can be damaged by friction and movement. Flat artworks are particularly vulnerable at the corners.
- Pressure and drops. Packages are often subjected to heavy weights and accidental drops during transit, so ensure your outer packaging is sturdy and that the artwork is well cushioned.
2. Packing Materials: Dos and Don’ts
Do use the following:
- Bubble wrap: Protects against impact and fills empty spaces to prevent movement.
- High-quality packing tape: Ensures secure packaging and moisture protection.
- Acid-free archival paper (Glassine): Protects the surface of the artwork without causing chemical reactions.
- Foam board: Provides a sturdy backing for flat works.
- Cardboard corner protectors: Safeguards vulnerable corners.
- PVC pipe or heavy-duty mailing tube: Recommended for rolled works, especially for large pieces.
Don’t use the following:
- Foam packing peanuts: They provide inadequate protection and can settle during transit.
- Second-hand filler (e.g., newspaper, plastic bags): These materials do not provide sufficient cushioning.
- Non-archival tissue paper: Only archival, acid-free paper should come into contact with your artwork.
- Garbage bags: Avoid using any materials that can leave a negative impression on the buyer.
3. When to Start Packaging
Packaging should begin as soon as you're notified of a sale. If building a custom crate is necessary, start early to avoid delays. We recommend beginning the packaging process at least two days before your scheduled shipment.
If you're unsure how much time it will take to pack your artwork, contact us for advice.
CHOOSING YOUR PACKAGING
For Paintings Smaller Than 48” x 48”
For paintings smaller than 48”, you have four shipping options:
- Shipping in a Box:
Standard shipping boxes work well for paintings under 48” x 48”. - Uline Deluxe Artwork Shippers:
These durable shipping boxes are available in a variety of sizes suitable for smaller artworks. Options include compact sizes designed for secure shipping. - Canvas in a Tube:
Canvas paintings can be carefully rolled and shipped in a tube. This option may be appropriate based on the specifics of the artwork.
Note: Avoid shipping in a tube for paintings with thick textures, brittle, cracked, or uncured paint. - Crating:
For added protection, crating can be considered, but this method is typically reserved for fragile or higher-value works.
For Paintings Larger Than 48” x 48”
For paintings larger than 48” on any side, you have three shipping options:
- Uline Deluxe Artwork Shippers:
These sturdy shipping boxes come in sizes such as 48” x 63” x 3” and 59” x 59” x 4”, which can accommodate larger artworks. Uline offers a variety of smaller sizes as well. - Crating:
If the painting exceeds the dimensions of the Uline boxes, it must be crated for shipping. - Canvas in a Tube:
Alternatively, you may wrap the canvas in a tube for shipping. This method may be suitable, depending on the artwork.
Note: Avoid shipping in a tube for paintings with thick textures, brittle, cracked, or uncured paint.
Be careful not to apply excessive pressure to the surface of your artwork, as it may cause indentations on the stretched canvas.
Ensure that your painting is fully dry before packaging it for shipment. Paint can sometimes appear dry when it is not fully set. Drying time varies based on factors like the type and brand of paint, any drying mediums used, and the specific colors, so it is essential to check the recommended drying time for your materials. Please note that our insurance will not cover any damage to paintings shipped before the paint has dried completely.
PACKING & SHIPPING PAINTINGS IN A BOX (SMALLER THAN 48” x 48”)
What You’ll Need:
- Glassine paper or acid-free archival tissue paper
- Plastic sheeting or poly wrap.
- Bubble wrap
- Foam board (at least ½” thick)
- Packing tape
- Cardboard corner protectors or two-ply cardboard
- Cardboard box (for final packaging)
Step-by-Step Packaging Instructions:
Step 1: Wrap the Painting
- Start by wrapping the painting in glassine paper or acid-free archival tissue paper.
- It's crucial that any material in contact with the artwork’s surface is archival quality.
- When handling the painting, avoid direct contact with your hands by wearing white cotton gloves or placing acid-free tissue paper between your fingers and the surface.
Step 2: Prepare the Corners
- Cut four (4) 8”x 8” square pieces of glassine or acid-free tissue paper (adjust size if needed to fit your painting).
- Fold each square diagonally to form a triangle and then fold each triangle again to create a pocket.
- Place one pocket over each of the four corners of the painting.
Step 3: Attach to Foam Board
- Using only the corners of the tissue paper, tape the wrapped painting onto a sheet of foam board or two-ply cardboard.
- The foam board should be the same size or slightly larger than the painting to provide firm support.
Step 4: Moisture Protection
- To guard against moisture, wrap the artwork (still wrapped in glassine paper) with plastic sheeting or poly wrap.
- Secure all openings with tape to ensure water does not penetrate and damage the artwork.
Step 5: Bubble Wrap Protection
- Next, wrap the entire artwork in two layers of bubble wrap, ensuring it’s snug and well-padded.
- Use tape to seal the bubble wrap securely.
Step 6: Apply Corner Protectors
- Add cardboard corner protectors to the corners of the bubble-wrapped artwork to provide additional protection against impacts.
Step 7: Secure in Foam Board "Sandwich"
- Place the wrapped artwork between two pieces of foam board at least ½” thick (or two-ply cardboard), creating a protective “sandwich.”
- The foam board should extend 2-3 inches beyond the edges of the bubble-wrapped painting.
- Use packing tape to firmly secure the foam board together, ensuring the artwork cannot shift inside.
Step 8: Place in a Cardboard Box
- Place the foam board-wrapped painting into a cardboard box, ensuring there is approximately three (3) inches of space around all sides of the artwork.
- Fill any empty space with bubble wrap or crumpled white paper to secure the painting and prevent movement during transit.
Step 9: Seal the Box
- Seal the box using the H-taping method.
- Start by placing a long strip of packing tape over the horizontal opening between the two flaps.
- Then, apply two vertical strips on each side, forming an "H" shape.
- For added security, apply extra vertical strips of tape across the sealed flaps.
- For visual guidance, search for "H-taping method" online for illustrations.
Step 10: Label the Package
- Attach the shipping label to the box and cover it with clear tape to prevent it from being removed during shipping.
- Use a black permanent marker to write "FRAGILE" in large letters on the package.
- Additionally, write "PLEASE KEEP UPRIGHT. DO NOT LAY FLAT."
PACKING & SHIPPING PAINTINGS USING ULINE DELUXE ARTWORK SHIPPERS
For medium to larger-sized flat canvas paintings, Uline Deluxe Artwork Shippers provide an excellent option for secure transportation. These sturdy, adjustable corrugated boxes are designed specifically to protect delicate artworks during transit. Available in various sizes, they feature foam inserts and corner protectors to keep paintings secure.
Materials Needed:
- Uline Deluxe Artwork Shipper
- Glassine paper or acid-free archival tissue paper
- Foam corner protectors (included with the shipper)
- Bubble wrap
- Packing tape
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Painting
- Ensure the painting is completely dry before packing.
- Cover the surface of the canvas with glassine paper or acid-free archival tissue paper to protect it from scratches and dust.
Step 2: Secure the Edges
- Attach foam corner protectors to the corners of the painting to prevent any damage to the edges during handling.
- These are typically included with the Uline Deluxe Artwork Shipper.
Step 3: Add Protective Layers
- Wrap the entire canvas in a layer of bubble wrap, ensuring even coverage on all sides.
- Tape the bubble wrap securely to prevent it from shifting.
Step 4: Insert Into Shipper
- Adjust the Uline shipper’s size to snugly fit your artwork.
- Place the wrapped painting inside, ensuring it doesn’t move within the box.
- Use additional bubble wrap or foam inserts to fill any gaps if necessary.
Step 5: Seal the Shipper
- Close the box securely and seal all edges with packing tape.
- Be thorough to ensure the shipper remains tightly closed during transit.
Step 6: Label for Shipping
- Affix your shipping label to the outside of the shipper.
- Cover the label with clear tape to protect it from moisture or damage.
- Clearly mark the package as “FRAGILE” to alert handlers.
PACKING & SHIPPING ROLLED CANVAS PAINTINGS
Paintings on canvas, up to a maximum size of 72” x 72”, can be carefully removed from their stretcher bars, rolled, and shipped in a durable mailing tube with a diameter of 8–12 inches, depending on the size of the artwork. For added protection, you may also use a PVC pipe, which is available at most hardware stores. Before rolling, ensure your painting is completely dry to avoid damage.
Materials Needed:
- Glassine paper or acid-free archival tissue paper
- A sturdy mailing tube with plastic end caps (minimum 8” diameter and up to 12”)
- A smaller tube for inner support (the painting will be rolled around this tube)
- Packing tape
- Bubble wrap
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Protect the Canvas
- Place the canvas between two layers of acid-free archival paper, ensuring it is fully covered.
Step 2: Roll with Support
- Gently roll the artwork, with the painted side facing outward, around the smaller tube.
- Avoid rolling too tightly to prevent damage to the surface.
Step 3: Add Padding
- Wrap the rolled canvas in bubble wrap to cushion it and protect it from moisture.
- Secure the bubble wrap with tape.
Step 4: Pack Securely
- Insert the wrapped canvas into the outer mailing tube.
- Fill any gaps at the tube’s ends with additional bubble wrap to protect the edges, but avoid overpacking or crushing the painting.
- Attach the end caps securely and seal with packing tape.
Step 5: Label for Shipping
- Attach the shipping label to the tube, covering it with clear tape to prevent it from being removed during transit.
- Clearly mark the tube as “FRAGILE.”
PACKING & SHIPPING FLAT ARTWORKS (Up to 48” x 48”)
Flat artworks like limited-edition prints, photographs, drawings, watercolors, and collages can be securely shipped by following these detailed steps. For pieces larger than 48” on any side, crating will be required.
Materials You’ll Need:
- Glassine paper or acid-free archival tissue paper
- Plastic sheeting, poly wrap, or a large plastic bag
- Foam board (at least ½” thick) or two-ply cardboard
- Bubble wrap or clean, shredded/wadded white paper
- Packing tape
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Wrap the Artwork
- Cover the artwork completely with acid-free tissue paper or glassine to protect its surface.
- Avoid touching the artwork directly; wear white cotton gloves or use tissue paper as a barrier while handling.
Step 2: Protect the Corners
- Cut four pieces of tissue paper or glassine into 8” x 8” squares (adjust size if needed).
- Fold each square diagonally into a triangle, then fold again to create a triangular pocket.
- Slip one pocket onto each corner of the wrapped artwork.
Step 3: Attach a Backing
- Place the wrapped artwork on a sheet of foam board or sturdy cardboard that is the same size or slightly larger than the artwork.
- Secure the artwork to the backing by taping only the triangular corner pockets to the foam board or cardboard. Do not tape the artwork itself.
Step 4: Waterproof the Packaging
- Wrap the artwork completely in plastic sheeting or poly wrap.
- Seal all seams with packing tape to prevent moisture from getting in. Double-check that all edges are fully sealed.
Step 5: Add Protective Layers
- Sandwich the artwork between two pieces of foam board or cardboard. Ensure the foam boards extend 2–3 inches beyond the edges of the artwork for added protection.
- Use packing tape to bind the boards securely on all sides. Reinforce the corners with extra tape to prevent shifting.
Step 6: Pack in a Box
- Place the foam-board-protected artwork into a sturdy cardboard box, leaving at least three inches of space on all sides.
- Fill the empty spaces with bubble wrap or clean, wadded/shredded white paper to keep the artwork from moving during transit.
- Seal the box completely with packing tape, reinforcing all edges and corners.
Step 7: Label the Package
- Attach a shipping label to the box and cover it with clear tape to protect it during transit.
- Use a thick black marker to clearly label the box with “FRAGILE” in large capital letters.
- Add “PLEASE KEEP UPRIGHT. DO NOT LAY FLAT.” for clear handling instructions.
PACKING & SHIPPING ROLLED PAPER ARTWORKS
Paper artworks, such as limited-edition prints, sketches, photographs, and watercolors, can be securely shipped in a sturdy mailing tube. For added protection, a PVC pipe is a great alternative and can often be found at your local hardware store.
Materials Needed:
- A heavy-duty mailing tube with plastic end caps (8” to 12” diameter, depending on the artwork size)
- A smaller inner tube for additional support (to roll the artwork around)
- Packing tape
- Glassine paper or acid-free archival tissue paper
- Bubble wrap
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Protect the Artwork
- Place the artwork between two layers of glassine or acid-free tissue paper.
- Ensure the entire surface of the artwork is fully covered to avoid damage.
Step 2: Roll the Artwork
- Carefully roll the paper-covered artwork face out (image side outward) around the smaller tube for support.
- Take care not to roll it too tightly, as this can cause creases or damage.
Step 3: Add Padding
- Wrap the rolled artwork with a layer of bubble wrap to cushion it and protect it from moisture.
- Secure the bubble wrap in place with packing tape, ensuring it is snug but not overly tight.
Step 4: Place in the Mailing Tube
- Insert the bubble-wrapped artwork into the larger mailing tube.
- Fill any empty space at both ends with additional bubble wrap to prevent shifting during transit.
- Avoid overpacking to ensure the edges of the artwork aren’t crushed.
- Securely attach the plastic end caps to the tube and seal them with packing tape.
Step 5: Label the Package
- Attach the shipping label to the tube and cover it with clear tape to protect it from damage or removal during transit.
- Use a bold marker to write “FRAGILE” in large capital letters on the tube for proper handling.
PACKING & SHIPPING SCULPTURES
Since sculptures vary greatly in size, weight, and delicacy, these are general guidelines for packing.
Materials Needed:
- Bubble wrap
- Packing tape
- Shredded paper
- Sturdy cardboard box (for sculptures under 12” and 5 lbs)
- Custom wooden crate (for larger or heavier sculptures)
Packing Instructions:
Step 1: Wrap the Top Half
- Securely wrap the top half of the sculpture with multiple layers of bubble wrap. Pay extra attention to delicate areas. Use tape to secure the edges of the wrap.
Step 2: Add Top Protective Layers
- Place additional large pieces of bubble wrap over the top half, overlapping the first layer. Seal all edges with tape.
Step 3: Wrap the Bottom Half
- Repeat the process for the bottom half, wrapping multiple layers of bubble wrap and overlapping it with the top section. Seal the seams and edges with tape.
Step 4: Add Bottom Protective Layers
- Apply additional bubble wrap to the bottom half, ensuring complete coverage and overlapping with the existing wrap. Secure everything with tape.
For Smaller Sculptures (Under 12” and 5 lbs): Use a sturdy cardboard box. Continue to Step 5.
For Larger Sculptures (Over 12” or Over 5 lbs): Use a custom wooden crate. See “Packing Artwork in a Wooden Crate” for detailed instructions, then return to Step 5.
Step 5: Cushion with Shredded Paper
- Reinforce the bottom of the box or crate with packing tape. Fill 1/3 of the container with shredded paper, creating a shallow well in the center.
- Place the wrapped sculpture in the well and fill the rest of the box with shredded paper, packing it tightly around the sculpture to prevent movement.
- Ensure the container is 2–3 inches larger than the sculpture on all sides, with extra shredded paper at the bottom to account for gravity.
Step 6: Seal the Package
- For cardboard boxes, use the H-taping method to seal:
- For wooden crates, screw the lid shut (do not glue it) to allow easy removal by the collector.
Step 7: Mark the Package
- Clearly label the package with “THIS SIDE UP” and draw arrows on all sides. Ready-made labels are also an option.
- For wooden crates, indicate the removable panel with “UNSCREW THIS SIDE ONLY.” Add any other helpful instructions using a black marker.
Step 8: Final Touches
- Attach the shipping label securely and cover it with clear tape.
- Mark the box or crate as “FRAGILE” in bold letters or use pre-made “FRAGILE” labels.
PACKING & SHIPPING ARTWORKS IN A WOODEN CRATE
Use a custom wooden crate to safely ship sculptures, large flat artworks, or fragile items. Follow these instructions to ensure secure packing and transport.
Materials Needed:
- Four (4) plywood planks (1/4 to 1/2 inch thick, depending on artwork size and fragility)
- Drill
- Saw
- 1 1/4 inch wood screws
- Wood glue
- Foam board (1/2 inch thick)
- Two (2) plywood sheets for the front and back panels
Packing Instructions:
Step 1: Measure the Artwork
Measure the height, width, and depth of your wrapped artwork (wrapped according to earlier instructions).
- For sculptures: Add 3–4 inches on all sides for bubble wrap and shredded paper.
- For paintings: Include an extra 1/2 inch for the foam board lining.
Step 2: Cut the Frame Pieces
Cut four plywood pieces to form the crate frame.
- Ensure the dimensions fit your wrapped artwork snugly while accommodating padding.
- Account for the plywood thickness when measuring and cutting.
Step 3: Assemble the Frame
Use wood glue and screws to assemble three of the plywood pieces into a rectangular frame.
- Leave the top (lid) piece off for now.
Step 4: Line with Foam Board
Line the inside of the frame with foam board strips.
- Secure them with tape or glue.
- Allow the glue to dry fully before proceeding.
Step 5: Prepare Front and Back Panels
Cut two additional plywood sheets to match the dimensions of the assembled frame.
- These will serve as the front and back panels.
Step 6: Attach the Back Panel
Secure one of the plywood sheets to the back of the frame using wood glue and screws.
Step 7: Place the Artwork Inside
- Lay a piece of foam board (cut to the frame’s size) at the bottom of the open crate.
- Place the wrapped artwork on top of the foam board.
- Ensure there is no room for movement inside the crate.
Step 8: Cover the Artwork
- Add another layer of foam board over the artwork.
- Place the remaining plywood sheet on top as the lid. Secure it with screws.
Step 9: Mark the Crate
- Clearly label the removable lid by writing “UNSCREW THIS SIDE ONLY” on it.
- Write additional instructions if necessary to assist the collector with opening the crate.
Step 10: Add Final Labels
- Attach the shipping label to the crate and cover it with clear tape to prevent damage during transit.
- Write “FRAGILE” in large, bold letters on all sides of the crate.
- For paintings or flat artworks, add “PLEASE KEEP UPRIGHT. DO NOT LAY FLAT.”