Expert Care for Every Frame: How We Safely Handle Delicate and Valuable Artwork at The Frame Shop

Expert Care for Every Frame: How We Safely Handle Delicate and Valuable Artwork at The Frame Shop

If you’ve ever held your breath while opening a package labeled “FRAGILE,” you’re not alone.



For many art collectors, decorators, and gift-givers, the memory of receiving a broken frame, cracked glass, or damaged canvas is all too familiar. Shipping delicate and valuable pieces can feel like rolling the dice, especially when those items are one-of-a-kind, sentimental, or expensive.


Unfortunately, these kinds of delivery disasters are more common than you might think. Online art communities are filled with stories of shattered glass, dented frames, and torn prints—all the result of poor handling or insufficient packaging. Sometimes, the damage is due to a hurried courier. Other times, it’s the lack of proper protective materials. Either way, the outcome is heartbreaking and costly.


At The Frame Shop, we understand how much your artwork means to you. That’s why we go above and beyond to ensure that your custom framed pieces arrive safe, sound, and beautiful—just as you envisioned. But before we dive into how we do that, let’s explore how typical carriers treat delicate shipments.

The Reality of Carrier Handling for Fragile and High-Value Artwork 



Most major shipping carriers—UPS, FedEx, USPS, DHL—process hundreds of thousands of packages each day. Despite their best efforts and protocols, the volume and speed at which they operate mean that individual packages don’t always get the special attention they deserve.


Many carriers sort parcels via conveyor belts and automated systems. These packages may fall, slide, or stack under heavier boxes. Fragile labels help, but they’re not guarantees. Glass can crack under pressure, and frames can warp or chip if mishandled during loading or transit.


Even when packages are marked with “Handle With Care,” the treatment can vary based on the warehouse, driver, or delivery route. High-value pieces are particularly vulnerable, especially if they don’t have the right protection, insurance, or tracking.


It’s also worth noting that most carriers don’t offer specialized services for art unless you upgrade to premium shipping or white-glove solutions, which can be expensive and harder to coordinate.


How to Properly Pack Delicate and Valuable Artwork 


Packing is the first and most important line of defense. At The Frame Shop, we’ve developed a proven method to ensure that each piece is protected from the moment it leaves our hands.

Here are a few key steps we take—and recommend:

  1. Use Acid-Free and Archival Materials: To preserve the integrity of your artwork, we use acid-free tissue, archival paper, and pH-neutral materials that prevent deterioration over time.
  2. Protect the Corners: Custom-cut corner protectors made of thick foam or cardboard prevent bump damage during transit.
  3. Wrap with Multiple Layers: We wrap frames in soft, non-abrasive paper or foam wrap, followed by layers of bubble wrap. For extra-fragile items, we double wrap or even use vacuum-sealed film for maximum protection.
  4. Crate for Safety: For high-value or oversized artwork, we offer custom wooden crating that cushions the frame with internal padding, ensuring no movement inside.
  5. Shock and Moisture Indicators: Optional for premium shipments, we attach tamper-proof sensors that show if a package has been dropped or exposed to moisture.


These steps, while meticulous, make all the difference. We believe your artwork deserves nothing less.

Our Process: Delivering Artwork with Care, Every Time 


Once your piece is packed, the journey doesn’t end there. Delivery is where extra vigilance pays off. At The Frame Shop, we work with vetted couriers and white-glove services when needed to maintain the highest standards of care.


Carrier Selection: For local deliveries, we use our trained staff to ensure your frame is hand-delivered. For longer distances, we choose carriers based on reliability, track record with art shipments, and handling policies.


Temperature and Climate Awareness: Sensitive materials such as wood, canvas, and fine art prints can react to heat and humidity. When needed, we ship using temperature-controlled options or add desiccants and climate-protective liners.


Real-Time Tracking and Communication: We provide tracking info with every shipment and update you with status alerts. For premium deliveries, we’ll coordinate drop-off times with the recipient to avoid missed deliveries.


Signature and Visual Confirmation: We require signatures for all high-value deliveries and often ask for visual confirmation to ensure your piece was received in perfect condition.


Installation Services: For select orders, we partner with white-glove installation teams that will not only deliver but also hang your artwork professionally—right where it belongs.


Trust the Experts with Your Artwork 


At The Frame Shop, every piece of art we ship is handled with the same level of care as if it were going into our own home. We understand the emotional and financial value behind every custom frame, and we’ve designed our process to reflect that responsibility.

From thoughtful packing techniques to curated delivery partnerships, we make sure your artwork isn’t just delivered—it’s protected, respected, and celebrated along the way.
Thinking about shipping a fragile or valuable piece? Don’t leave it to chance. Reach out to The Frame Shop today for a custom shipping solution that puts your peace of mind first.

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