DHL Artwork Shipping

29 Jul

The global art market has rebounded strongly after the disruptions of recent years.

Paintings and sculptures now frequently travel thousands of miles from artists to galleries and collectors, and the logistics of moving such fragile and valuable items need more than standard parcel‑shipping know‑how.

Whether you are sending a watercolour to a buyer overseas or shipping a bronze sculpture to an exhibition, careful preparation and an understanding of DHL’s policies will help ensure your work arrives safely.

Understanding the nature of fine‑art shipments

Artwork and antiques are among the most delicate items a courier can handle. They are sensitive to shocks, temperature and humidity, and even the smallest mistake in packing can cause scratches, warping or discolouration [1].

Because of their high value, works of art may also be attractive targets for fraud or money‑laundering schemes. DHL advises exporters to understand local and international regulations, including anti‑money‑laundering measures, and to ensure that only genuine works are shipped [3].

Packing paintings for safe transit

Successful artwork shipping begins with thoughtful packing. DHL suggests the following approaches.

Unframed paintings

Unframed canvases can be rolled and shipped in a tube, reducing weight and cost. Key steps include [2]:

Place the artwork between two layers of glassine paper and roll it around a smaller tube.
Secure the roll with removable adhesive paper.
Wrap the entire roll in bubble wrap for cushioning.
Insert the protected roll into a sturdy shipping tube, filling any gaps with bubble wrap to prevent movement.
Seal the tube securely.

Framed paintings

Framed works require more protection, especially if glass is involved [2]:

Cover the painted side with glassine paper and fold it against the edges, securing the paper rather than the canvas.
Wrap the piece in several layers of bubble wrap.
Sandwich the wrapped frame between sheets of plywood or rigid foam and tape them together.
Place the protected artwork in a durable box with sufficient cushioning on all sides.
Mark the box “Fragile” so handlers know its contents are delicate.

Additional packaging tips

DHL recommends using high‑quality materials such as strong cardboard boxes, bubble wrap, acid‑free tissue paper, foam and packing tape [3].

Where possible, protect items from moisture and temperature changes by choosing water‑resistant materials and considering temperature‑controlled shipping options [3].

Always surround the artwork with enough cushioning to absorb shocks [3], and align labels clearly so the courier knows how to handle the parcel.

Shipping sculptures and three‑dimensional art

Sculptures and installations vary widely in shape and weight, so their packaging should be tailored accordingly. For smaller pieces, select a rigid box that extends five to ten centimetres beyond each side of the artwork [2].

Stabilise the item with shock‑absorbing material, filling all spaces within the box [2]. Wrap the sculpture in several layers of bubble wrap, paying special attention to delicate parts [2], and secure everything with tape.

As with paintings, label the box to indicate it contains fragile artwork.

Preparing documents and navigating customs

Artwork shipments often cross borders, so correct documentation is vital. DHL’s advice for exporting paintings highlights several key documents [3]:

Certificate of authenticity – verifies the artwork is genuine; essential for expensive or original works.
Export licence or permit – required when cultural artefacts or regulated materials are involved.
Commercial invoice – details the piece’s description, artist, medium, size, year and price; customs officials use it to calculate duties and taxes.

Ensure you understand the regulations in both the country of origin and the destination, particularly if the work involves endangered materials or cultural heritage items [3].

Failing to provide the right paperwork can delay the shipment or lead to confiscation by customs.

Insurance, monitoring and value restrictions

Even with meticulous packing, there is always some risk when shipping art. DHL recommends purchasing shipment protection insurance to safeguard against loss, theft or damage [3].

The company offers technology such as SmartSensor, which uses GPS and sensors to monitor temperature, humidity and shocks during transit [3]. Clients can also use DHL ProView, a web‑based tool that provides real‑time tracking and sends email or SMS alerts whenever a shipment’s status changes [3].

It is also important to be aware of DHL’s restrictions. DHL Express prohibits or restricts shipments of antiques, works of art and fine art above certain values.

For example, DHL Express allows the shipping of artwork but notes that antiques, works of art and fine art with an individual value over £5,000 cannot be accepted [4].

In some countries, artworks valued over €500,000 require special approval before DHL will carry them [5]. Always check the specific value limits and obtain approval from DHL if your piece exceeds them.

Reducing costs with World Options

Businesses that regularly ship art can save money by using the World Options portal. World Options has partnered with DHL to offer businesses special rates and brings multiple courier services together in one platform [6].

Through the portal you can compare prices from different carriers and access exclusive quotes not available elsewhere [6]. The system lets you choose services based on your needs – whether it’s speed, price or the mode of transport – and provides a simple online interface for booking shipments [6].

For galleries, dealers or artists sending artworks frequently, these discounted rates and streamlined tools can make international shipping more affordable without compromising on reliability.