Disaster 4: Shipping costs are more expensive than the artwork
Artsy Tip: Hold off on framing
Framed artworks—especially those behind glass—will be more expensive to ship, as they often need to be placed in a heavy wooden crate to prevent damages.
For prints and other works on paper, you can consider this less expensive option. It’s often possible for the gallery to ship the artwork without the frame, but send it directly to a framer near you. This way, the gallery or auction house can skip the heavy crating and mail the artwork rolled in a tube—and you can pick up the piece fully framed.
To save costs, a gallery might also be able to include your work in a shipment for an upcoming art fair or exhibition in your area. When transporting art overseas, it can be worth waiting a little longer for your artwork to lower shipping fees.