How to Ship Art from NYC to SF

Shipping artwork from New York City to San Francisco—a journey of nearly 3,000 miles—requires careful planning and the right logistics partner. Whether you're relocating, selling to a West Coast collector, or sending pieces to a gallery, here's everything you need to know.

Understanding the Journey

The NYC to SF route is one of the most common cross-country art shipping corridors in the United States. The journey typically takes 5-7 days by ground transport, though expedited options are available.

Route Considerations - Distance: Approximately 2,900 miles - Climate zones crossed: Multiple, from humid East Coast through arid Southwest - Major stops: Often includes Chicago or Denver hub points

Estimated Shipping Costs by Painting Size

*The following estimates are approximate and may vary based on artwork value, fragility, packaging requirements, insurance needs, and current fuel costs.*

| Painting Size | Consolidated | Standard | Expedited | |---------------|-------------|----------|-----------| | Small (up to 18"×24") | $350–$500 | $550–$750 | $900–$1,200 | | Medium (24"×36") | $500–$700 | $750–$950 | $1,200–$1,600 | | Large (36"×48") | $700–$950 | $1,000–$1,400 | $1,800–$2,400 | | Oversized (48"×72"+) | $1,100–$1,500 | $1,600–$2,200 | $2,800–$3,800 |

*Museum-grade crating adds approximately $200–$800 depending on size. Actual costs depend on specific artwork characteristics and service requirements.*

Shipping Options

Ground Transport The most common choice for art shipping, offering: - Climate-controlled trucks maintaining 65-75°F - Lower cost compared to air freight - Ability to accommodate larger pieces and crates - Typical transit time: 5-7 business days

Air Freight For time-sensitive shipments: - Transit time: 1-2 days - Higher cost but faster delivery - Ideal for urgent gallery installations or auctions - Size and weight restrictions apply

Consolidated Shipping Share truck space with other art shipments: - Most cost-effective option - Regular scheduled routes between major art markets - Typical transit time: 7-10 business days

Preparation Steps

1. Document Your Artwork Before shipping, create a comprehensive condition report: - High-resolution photographs from multiple angles - Detailed notes on existing condition - Measurements including frame depth

2. Choose Appropriate Packaging The cross-country distance demands robust protection: - Museum-grade crating for high-value pieces - Travel frames to isolate artwork from crate walls - Climate buffering materials for temperature stability

3. Verify Insurance Coverage Ensure adequate protection for the full journey: - Confirm your policy covers cross-country transit - Consider additional coverage for high-value works - Document declared values accurately

Climate Considerations

The NYC to SF route crosses multiple climate zones, making temperature and humidity management critical:

Eastern Seaboard - Generally humid conditions - Moderate temperature variations

Midwest Passage - Extreme temperature swings possible - Lower humidity levels

Southwest Desert - Very low humidity - High temperature extremes in summer

California Coast - Marine influence creates moderate conditions - Different from departure climate

Professional shippers use climate-controlled vehicles and insulated crating to maintain stable conditions throughout the journey.

Timing Your Shipment

Best Seasons - Spring (March-May): Moderate temperatures nationwide - Fall (September-November): Stable weather conditions

Challenging Periods - Summer: Extreme heat in desert regions - Winter: Snow and ice can cause delays

Working with Artliner

We provide comprehensive NYC to SF art shipping services: - Regular consolidated routes for cost-effective shipping - Dedicated transport for urgent or high-value shipments - Custom crating built in our facilities - Climate-controlled fleet for year-round protection - Real-time tracking throughout the journey - White glove delivery including installation

Contact us for a customized quote for your NYC to SF art shipment. We'll help you choose the right service level and ensure your artwork arrives safely on the West Coast.