A print can be correct in every artistic detail and still arrive with a bent corner because the packing process treated it like ordinary paperwork. The final check needs to protect the physical sheet as well as confirm the order.
Choose the packing method for the actual paper, size and finish. Do not assume that one envelope or tube suits every print.
Confirm the exact print
Match the artwork, size, border, orientation and framing option to the order. Check edition number and signature where they are part of the offer.
Two sheets showing the same image may have different specifications. Do not pack from the artwork title alone.
Use the print listing record as the reference for what the customer expects.
Inspect the sheet before protection
Check visible condition under suitable light using your established quality standard. Look at the edges, corners and printed surface without unnecessary handling.
Do not attempt an unverified cleaning or flattening treatment to hide a problem. Resolve production or condition issues through the appropriate process.
If a print has an intentional deckled edge or other feature, make sure it matches the description rather than treating all edge variation alike.
Choose flat or rolled packing deliberately
The suitable method depends on the paper, print process, dimensions and maker guidance. Do not roll a sheet simply because a tube is available.
If the product is supplied rolled, explain that before purchase and provide appropriate handling guidance supported for the item. Avoid an invented promise that it will flatten perfectly after a fixed time.
For framed work, use a separate packing approach suitable to the complete object rather than this unframed-sheet checklist alone.
Prevent movement and surface contact problems
Use materials appropriate to the print and arrange them so the sheet cannot slide into an unprotected edge. Avoid adhesives contacting the artwork unless the process specifically supports that use.
Do not describe packaging materials as archival or conservation-grade without evidence. The label on a generic sleeve is not automatically a verified preservation claim.
Follow the carrier's current packaging requirements and test representative arrangements where practical.
Keep documentation separate from the surface
Include any promised edition statement, care note or order information without creating pressure points or marks on the print.
Check that the document names the correct artwork and format. An edition card from another print can create confusion even when the sheet itself is right.
Keep personal information out of packing photographs used for training or public content.
Record the packed contents
A short internal check can confirm the print identity, condition, documents and packaging method. A photograph may support it, but it is not an absolute defence against an arrival complaint.
Do not publish customer names as part of an edition dispatch record. The operational record and marketing content serve different purposes.
If several orders are packed together, keep their sheets and documents separated until each parcel is closed.
Explain opening carefully
Where the packing method requires a particular opening step, provide clear product-appropriate guidance. Avoid making the customer cut close to an unmarked print edge.
Do not recommend conservation treatment or flattening techniques beyond your verified guidance. Valuable or damaged work may need qualified assessment.
The aim is to make ordinary unpacking understandable without turning a short insert into unsupported restoration advice.
Use damage reports to improve the method
Ask for the information needed to assess a problem and follow your actual resolution process. Do not assume the customer caused damage because the pre-dispatch photograph looked correct.
Look for repeated corner, edge or movement issues by packaging method. Change the arrangement deliberately and check the result.
A careful print parcel is not one labelled fragile in large letters. It is one whose contents, condition and protection have been considered together, so the customer can receive and open the physical artwork described on the page.
Keep a spare packing reference for each format so another team member can repeat the approved arrangement.
Examples are illustrative. Confirm current features, charges and suitability before making a business decision.
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