A collector bought a $40,000 vase in Paris and shipped it to New York. To save money, he let the gallery pack it in a cardboard box with peanuts. It arrived as dust. The insurer denied the claim citing “Insufficient Packing.” In 2026, if it isn’t in a custom-built wooden crate, it might as well be uninsured.
Key Takeaways
- The “IPPC” Stamp: International crates must use heat-treated wood (stamped IPPC) or customs will destroy the crate (and potentially damage the art) to stop bugs.
- “Packed by Owner” (PBO) Denial: If you pack it, they deny it. Professional packing is a warranty requirement.
- The 2-Inch Rule: Standard guidelines require 2 inches of high-density foam (Ethafoam) between the art and the crate wall. Peanuts don’t count.
- Tip-N-Tell Indicators: Use sensors on the crate. If the “Tip-N-Tell” is blue, the crate was dropped. This proves rough handling.
The “Why” (The Trap): Improper Packing Exclusion
The policy excludes: “Loss caused by or resulting from improper packing or stowage.”
This is the insurer’s favorite “Get Out of Jail Free” card. If the box shows no exterior damage but the art inside is broken, they blame the packing.
You need a crate so strong that a forklift can hit it and the art survives.
[IMAGE: Photo of a “Tip-N-Tell” and “ShockWatch” sticker on a wooden crate]
The Investigation: I Called Them
I asked about packing standards for international shipments.
1. FedEx / UPS Insurance
- The Limit: They cap art at $1,000 usually.
- The Packing: They require double boxing with 2 inches of cushioning.
- Verdict: Never ship fine art via standard courier insurance.
2. Fine Art Shippers (Dietl / Gander & White)
- The Standard: Custom plywood crate, Tyvek wrap, Ethafoam cavities, oz-clips.
- The Cost: $1,500 for the crate alone.
- The Insurance: If they pack it, the insurance is rock solid.
3. Third-Party Insurers
- The Clause: “Warranted packed by professional packers.”
- The Consequence: If you use a cardboard box for a painting over $5,000, you are voiding your policy.
Comparison Table
| Packing Method | Cost | Insurance Validity | Risk Level |
| Cardboard + Bubble | $50 | Void (usually) | High |
| Soft Crate (Cardboard/Foam) | $300 | Questionable | Medium |
| Hard Crate (Wood/Foam) | $1,200 | Valid | Low |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Budget for Crating: When buying art abroad, add $1,500 to the price for the crate. Don’t skimp.
- Request Photos: Ask the shipper to email you a photo of the art in the crate before the lid is screwed on. This proves it was packed correctly.
- Check the Wood: Ensure the wood has the “wheat stamp” (IPPC). If not, US Customs will reject it.
- Wait to Unpack: If the crate arrives damaged, do not open it. Call the insurance adjuster. Let them open it.
FAQ Section
Can I reuse a crate?
Yes, if the foam is re-cut to fit the new object perfectly. Loose fit = damage.
What is a “Shadow Box” crate?
It travels with the art but allows the art to be viewed without full unpacking. Good for touring exhibitions.
Does insurance cover the cost of the crate?
No, that is a shipping expense. It only covers the art.