The nature of art handling is very dualistic. On the one hand, it seems that there is nothing easier than packing and shipping fine paintings or art prints, especially if they are small. On the other hand, though, you start realizing the difficulty when you stumble across atypical situations.

The more valuable and fragile an artwork is, the more risks you take during its transportation. But if you know the golden rules of handling art, you can prevent common complications that many beginners face regularly. Here is the list.

5 golden rules of art handling everyone needs to follow

1. Plan before you plan

Believe it or not, less planning is usually better than a complex plan that won’t be followed anyway. What matters, though, is how definite and firm your plan will be.

2. Hold your horses

If you are in a hurry, you are likely to make more mistakes, which is unacceptable in art handling. The stakes, as well as the value of art, are always high, so it is better to be as cautious as possible.

3. Maintain packing standards

Ignoring packing standards is one of the most common reasons for problems. You should use only high-quality materials, from bubble wrap to cardboard boxes. And don’t forget about the gloves!

4. Learn how to carry art

Yes, you need to know how to do it right. First and foremost, you should secure the corners when handling art. Moreover, experts recommend supporting the items from the bottom for better safety.

5. Never try things you are unsure about

Experiments are not always bliss. Sometimes, you need to step down and try not to make things worse. If you feel unsure about your skills, you can always turn to professional art handlers who will assist you throughout the process.

There is no such thing as a perfect algorithm. It is just impossible to calculate everything, even when it comes to art handling. Nevertheless, knowing these golden rules will benefit you when the time comes!