Arta packaging guidelines

Now that you are on managed shipping, you may have questions about how to package your items. We provide further information below to ensure all your orders are successful!

Who is responsible for packaging the artwork if you manage shipping on my behalf?

The partner we’re using for managing shipments on behalf of our artists is called Arta. They provide several types of delivery services (some already including packaging), but not all of these will be available to all sellers, as this will depend on the artist’s location and type of artworks sold.

Therefore, it is likely that most of the time, you will need to package the artworks for shipment yourself, and we will only provide a prepaid shipping label that will allow you to ship your artwork.

Who is responsible for the packaging costs?

Customers will be responsible for paying the relevant delivery costs for their items; however, for orders that qualify for the Self-Ship service, this will only cover courier and transportation fees. Any packaging costs will be the artist’s responsibility.

If your order qualifies for the Parcel or Premium, then Arta will collect the item from you and package this securely for transport via parcel networks at their facilities before shipping. 

What guidelines should I follow when packaging artworks?

We will use the information you provide on the listing, such as object materials, value, and dimensions, and work with our partner to determine a safe and economical packing method. 

When you are provided with your shipping label, our partner will also inform you of packing instructions and expectations, and you will need to ensure that you have packaged the item in line with their instructions, as otherwise the shipment may not be eligible for compensation claims in the case of damage.

The guidance provided by Arta will include suggested packing materials and dimensions, as well as information regarding whether multiple objects can be packed together safely. Sellers may request additional shipping labels for items that are already packaged separately.

Can I continue packaging my items sustainably?

Yes, absolutely! We have always encouraged artists to ensure their packaging is as sustainable as possible, so as long as your artworks are safely packaged and labelled, you can continue to do so.

If you are unsure whether your packaging is sufficient, we’d encourage you to reach out to us or Arta about this. 

What if the information provided on my listing is incorrect?

If the information provided for your artwork dimensions/weight is not correct, you will need to share notable item or package size discrepancies with us or Arta before releasing the packages to the carrier.

What should I do after packaging the item?

You will be able to either drop off your parcel at your nearest courier drop-off location or get in touch with Artfinder support so we can book a collection for you.

What if I can’t ship on time?

You will need to communicate to Arta any delays encountered in releasing the parcels to the courier.

You will be expected to respond to inquiries from Arta promptly when a shipment’s release to the courier is delayed.

What is the maximum artwork dimensions you can ship?

We will be able to ship artworks with dimensions of up to 2 metres for Premium shipping services and up to 4 metres for Self-ship and Parcel.

What type of packaging can I use?

Arta provides several suggestions for how you can pack your items. Depending on the type of artwork you ship, you could use one of the following that best suits your item.

• Reinforced cardboard box

• Foam-lined box

• Eco Crate

• Double cardboard box

• Shipping tube

• Stabilising box

For more information on managed shipping, you may also wish to check out the article: Everything you need to know about managed shipping or reach out to us at sellers@artfinder.com.