Protect the artwork's surface and corners before placing it in rigid packaging. Secure framed pieces upright so they cannot slide or carry weight on top. Confirm packed dimensions and handling needs before booking an enclosed vehicle. Ask about optional goods insurance if the value warrants it.
In 30 seconds
- Corner protectors, bubble wrap and rigid cardboard: damage almost always starts at a corner.
- Paintings ride on their edge and secured, like books on a shelf, never with anything on top.
- A piece up to 2.0 × 1.15 m fits on its edge in the SIVA van.
The AMVO Online Sales Study 2026 reports art and crafts purchases among 27% of digital buyers. Confirm packaging and handling requirements for each piece.
Why does artwork get damaged in transit?
Corners, surfaces and glass can be damaged during loading or while the vehicle moves. Loose cargo and weight placed on a canvas add further risks. Protect the piece before collection and explain how it must travel. Secure packaging and careful placement reduce movement during the route.
| Cause | Typical damage | How to avoid it |
|---|---|---|
| Knock on a corner | Chipped frame, loose canvas | Cardboard or foam corner protectors |
| Weight on top | Dented or marked canvas | Ride on edge, nothing on top |
| Vibration | Broken glass, shifting pieces | Secure the piece and fill gaps |
| Rain or sun | Warped paper, stained frame | Closed packaging and enclosed vehicle |
How do you pack a painting for shipping?
Protect the surface with suitable paper and cover all four corners before adding outer protection. Use rigid boards or a fitted box to prevent pressure on the artwork. Keep wrapping clear of delicate finishes. Check the finished package's dimensions and tell the delivery team about any glass.
- Surface: acid-free paper or glassine; never bubble wrap directly on paint.
- Glass: painter's tape in an X on the glass (not on the artwork).
- Corners: cardboard or foam protectors on all four.
- Wrap: bubble wrap, bubbles facing out.
- Box: double-wall cardboard or two rigid boards, with 5 cm of padded clearance.
- Label: “Fragile”, “This side up” and the recipient's name.
How should artwork ride in the van?
Carry a framed piece upright on its edge and secure it against sliding. Keep other packages from resting on its surface. Box sculptures and decorative objects so they remain stable during movement. Tell the delivery team which pieces are most delicate before loading and planning the stops.
- On its edge, secured, with padding between pieces.
- Nothing resting on the surface of the painting.
- In a dedicated block, your artwork doesn't share the van with other clients' orders.
- A photo on delivery, with the recipient's name.
What sizes fit?
The van's cargo area measures 2.0 × 1.30 × 1.15 m, with a 550 kg load limit. Measure the artwork after packing and allow for its required travel position. Packaging adds to the final dimensions. Send those measurements before booking so the team can confirm whether it fits.
| Cargo area (length × width × height) | 2.0 × 1.30 × 1.15 m |
|---|---|
| Maximum load | 550 kg |
| Piece on edge (packed, reference) | Up to 2.0 × 1.15 m |
| Larger pieces | No; they count as oversized cargo |
When should you insure an artwork?
Ask about goods insurance when you cannot comfortably absorb the value of a damaged or lost piece. Confirm the terms before the artwork leaves your business. SIVA Logistics offers optional goods insurance at the customer's expense. Packaging and secure loading still matter when the shipment is insured.
- Gallery or emerging-artist work: good packing, enclosed van and delivery photo.
- High-value work: add goods insurance. See insurance and guarantees.
- Museum piece or collection: specialized art transport.
Frequently asked questions
Book a dedicated block one day ahead, or request the afternoon route before noon, subject to space. Blocks run Monday to Saturday in morning and afternoon slots. For same-day requests, check availability on WhatsApp. Confirm your areas, order count and date when booking. The answers below cover other details to check before dispatch.
How far in advance should I book a delivery?
Book a dedicated block one day ahead. For same-day requests, check availability on WhatsApp. Blocks run Monday to Saturday, from 8:30 am to noon or 1:00 to 4:30 pm. For the afternoon route, request delivery before noon, subject to space.
Does SIVA pack the artwork?
No. The artwork must leave your gallery, studio or store already packed. We load and secure it in the van and deliver it with a photo.
Can you pick up at my gallery and deliver to a home in Lomas?
Yes, within Interlomas, Santa Fe, Lomas de Chapultepec and Polanco. We also deliver outside those areas, with a separate quote, subject to availability.
Do you hang or install the artwork?
No. We deliver the packed piece at the door or to whoever receives it; installation is up to your team or the customer.
Have an artwork to ship?
Send us the dimensions, approximate weight and destination. We'll confirm whether it fits and what it costs.