How to Receive an Artwork Delivery

Receiving is the point where a shipping record becomes an ownership record. A rushed doorstep handoff can erase useful evidence and create avoidable damage. Plan access, document the unopened package, and know the claim deadline before the carrier arrives.

Measure doors, elevators, turns, stairs, and the final staging area. Protect floors and clear a dry, clean surface larger than the packed work. Arrange two people or professional help for large, heavy, glazed, or awkward pieces. Do not plan to lift from frames, hanging wire, or projecting elements.

Photograph every side of the package, labels, punctures, crushing, water marks, loose contents, or broken seals. Note visible damage with the driver or delivery record when possible. A signature may acknowledge receipt, so add exceptions rather than writing ‘received in good condition’ before inspection.

Follow the packer’s instructions and preserve every layer until the work is accepted. Use tools cautiously and cut away from the object. Photograph the sequence, particularly any internal damage or displaced component. Avoid acclimatizing or cleaning the work based on guesswork; ask a conservator when temperature, moisture, or unstable materials are concerns.

Compare the object with the listing, invoice, condition report, and pre-shipment photographs. Document new scratches, cracks, abrasions, loose paint, glazing damage, frame separation, or missing items. Notify seller, shipper, insurer, and platform promptly according to the written process—before repair or disposal of packaging.

• Access route and safe staging area prepared
• Unopened package photographed
• Damage exceptions noted at delivery
• Unpacking sequence and object condition recorded
• Packaging retained until acceptance or claim resolution

Treat the first inspection as evidence collection, not a restoration session. If anything is wrong, stabilize the area, avoid altering the object, and ask the responsible party or a qualified conservator for next steps.