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Shipping & Tracking

Deliver your artwork safely and keep customers informed with tracking updates.

Shipping Setup​

Shipping Methods​

Configure shipping options in Settings → Shipping:

MethodBest For
StandardMost orders
PriorityFaster delivery
ExpressUrgent orders
InternationalGlobal customers
Local pickupLocal customers

Shipping Rates​

Set rates based on:

  • Flat rate per order
  • Weight-based
  • Price-based tiers
  • Free shipping threshold

Packing Orders​

Materials Needed​

  • Appropriate box/mailer size
  • Acid-free tissue paper
  • Cardboard backing
  • Bubble wrap or foam
  • Packing tape
  • "Fragile" stickers

Packing Art Prints​

  1. Place print face-down on acid-free tissue
  2. Add cardboard backing (both sides for larger prints)
  3. Wrap in plastic sleeve
  4. Place in rigid mailer or flat box
  5. Add "Do Not Bend" sticker

Packing Original Art​

  1. Ensure paint is fully cured
  2. Cover face with glassine or acid-free paper
  3. Add corner protectors
  4. Wrap in bubble wrap
  5. Place in double-walled box
  6. Fill gaps with packing material
  7. Mark as "Fragile - Art"

Framed Artwork​

  1. Protect glass with tape (X pattern)
  2. Wrap entire piece in bubble wrap
  3. Use custom or mirror box
  4. Double-box for extra protection
  5. Mark "Glass - Fragile"

Adding Tracking​

Mark Order as Shipped​

  1. Open the order
  2. Click Mark as Shipped
  3. Select carrier from dropdown
  4. Enter tracking number
  5. Click Confirm

Supported Carriers​

  • USPS
  • UPS
  • FedEx
  • DHL
  • Canada Post
  • Royal Mail
  • Australia Post
  • And many more...

Tracking URL​

Artbase auto-generates tracking URL for major carriers.

For custom/regional carriers:

  1. Select "Other" carrier
  2. Enter carrier name
  3. Paste full tracking URL

Customer Notifications​

When you mark an order shipped:

Automatic email includes:

  • Shipping confirmation
  • Tracking number
  • Tracking link
  • Carrier name
  • Items shipped

Customer can:

  • Click to track package
  • View order status
  • Contact you with questions

Order Status Updates​

Automatic Updates​

For supported carriers, status updates automatically:

  • Shipped
  • In Transit
  • Out for Delivery
  • Delivered

Manual Updates​

Update manually if needed:

  1. Open order
  2. Click Update Status
  3. Select new status
  4. Add notes (optional)

Shipping Labels​

Integration with shipping services (coming soon):

  • Buy postage
  • Print labels
  • Schedule pickup

External Label Creation​

  1. Use carrier website or app
  2. Enter shipping details
  3. Print label
  4. Enter tracking in Artbase
ServiceBest For
Pirate ShipUSPS discounts
ShipStationMulti-carrier
Stamps.comUSPS integration
EasyPostAPI access

International Shipping​

Customs Forms​

For international orders:

  • Complete customs declaration
  • Accurate item description
  • Declared value
  • HS tariff codes (for art: 9701, 9702)

Customs Descriptions​

Item TypeDescription Example
Original painting"Original artwork, oil on canvas"
Print"Art print, reproduction on paper"
DigitalN/A (no physical shipment)

International Costs​

Factor in:

  • Shipping distance
  • Package weight/size
  • Customs duties (paid by buyer usually)
  • Insurance (recommended)

Package Insurance​

When to Insure​

  • Orders over $100
  • Original artwork
  • Fragile items
  • International shipments

Insurance Options​

  • Carrier insurance (included up to certain value)
  • Third-party insurance (Shipsurance, etc.)
  • Self-insure for lower values

Handling Issues​

Package Delayed​

  1. Check tracking for updates
  2. Contact carrier if no movement
  3. Inform customer proactively
  4. File inquiry if needed

Package Lost​

  1. Wait appropriate time (varies by carrier)
  2. File missing package claim
  3. Process refund or replacement
  4. Claim insurance if applicable

Package Damaged​

  1. Document damage with photos
  2. File carrier claim
  3. Offer replacement or refund
  4. Use claim to cover costs

Shipping Best Practices​

Timelines​

  • Ship within 1-3 business days
  • Communicate if longer needed
  • Update listing with accurate times

Communication​

  • Send shipping notification
  • Provide tracking immediately
  • Follow up if delivery delayed

Quality​

  • Use appropriate packaging
  • Include thank you note
  • Consider branded materials
  • Add care instructions

Next Steps​