How to pack multiple framed prints—including Hiroshi Nagai prints—for secure exhibition transport

Preparation: Materials and handling

Begin with archival materials. For Hiroshi Nagai prints—or any pigment-based giclée on cotton-rag (250–310 gsm)—the Fine Art Trade Guild recommends acid-free glassine as the only safe interleave between print and glazing. Remove the print from the frame if the glazing is not UV-protective (99% UV-blocking acrylic like Optium Museum Acrylic is standard for exhibition); otherwise, leave framed works intact but seal the back with gummed kraft tape.

For multiple prints, use 3 mm foamboard (acid-free, lignin-free) cut to the exact dimensions of each frame, plus 5 cm clearance on all sides. Label each separator with the print title, dimensions, and orientation (e.g., "Hiroshi Nagai, City Lights, 50x70 cm / 20x28 in, top"). Gloves are mandatory; the American Institute for Conservation notes that fingerprints on matte surfaces (common in Nagai’s offset lithographs) require professional cleaning to avoid permanent marks.

Wrapping and isolation

Wrap each framed print in a single layer of 0.1 mm polyethylene sheeting (not bubble wrap, which can imprint on matte finishes) followed by a corrugated cardboard sleeve, taped along the leading edge only. For prints 60x90 cm (24x36 in) and larger, add a second sleeve perpendicular to the first to create a cross-braced shell. Smaller works (30x40 cm / 12x16 in or A4) can share a box if separated by foamboard dividers, but never stack prints directly—even offset lithographs (like Nagai’s commercial editions) risk surface abrasion under pressure.

Secure the glazing with painter’s tape in an "X" pattern across the face if the frame lacks a sealed back. This prevents glass or acrylic from shifting during transit. For unframed prints (e.g., giclées shipped to a framer), use a rigid mailers with a 5 cm foam core—never roll prints smaller than A2, as the MoMA’s print conservation guidelines specify that rolling increases crack risk in pigment layers.

Box selection and internal bracing

Double-walled corrugated cartons (400 lb test strength) are the minimum for framed works. Standard sizes:

• 30x40 cm / 12x16 in: 45x55x10 cm box (18x22x4 in)
• 50x70 cm / 20x28 in: 65x80x12 cm box (26x32x5 in)
• 70x100 cm / 28x40 in: 85x110x15 cm box (34x44x6 in)

Line the base with 5 cm of ethafoam (closed-cell polyethylene), then place the wrapped print on top. Fill voids with air pillows (not loose-fill peanuts, which settle) and add a second foam layer before sealing. For shipments over 10 kg (22 lb), use a plywood crate with corner braces—standard for prints valued above $5,000, including Nagai’s limited editions.

Labeling and documentation

Affix two labels to each box: one with handling instructions ("FRAGILE / THIS SIDE UP / DO NOT STACK"), another with contents (e.g., "Hiroshi Nagai, Tokyo Twilight, 60x90 cm, framed, $3,200"). Include a packed inventory list inside the shipment and email a copy to the carrier. For international transport, declare the value at 60–70% of retail to account for duty (e.g., a $4,000 print listed at $2,800).

Photograph each print before packing, focusing on corners and glazing. The Tate’s Art Terms glossary defines "condition reports" as mandatory for exhibition loans; apply the same rigor to private shipments. For prints with glossy finishes (less common in Nagai’s work but prevalent in offset lithographs), note that reflections can obscure damage in photos—use raking light to document surface flaws.

Carrier selection and insurance

Use fine-art specialists (e.g., Crozier, UOVO, or local equivalents) for prints over $2,000. Standard couriers (FedEx, UPS) suffice for smaller works if insured for full replacement value—confirm "all-risk" coverage includes climate-controlled transit (critical for cotton-rag prints in humid regions). Shipping costs for a 70x100 cm framed print: $150–$300 domestic (US/EU), $400–$800 international (crated).

For group shipments (e.g., 5–10 prints), palletize with a 10 cm gap between boxes, secured with strapping. The Fine Art Trade Guild’s 2023 Transport Standards mandate vibration dampening for road transport; request air-ride suspension trucks if available. Upon arrival, acclimatize prints for 24 hours before unwrapping to prevent condensation on glazing.