When orderingcustom picture frames online, you might wonder why many professional frame companies choose not to include glass in their shipped products. At our frame business, this decision isn't just about cost-cutting—it's a strategic choice that benefits both our customers and the environment.

The Shipping Challenge: Why Glass and Frames Don't Mix

Glass breakage during shipping is one of the most common issues in the framing industry. Despite careful packaging, the combination of handling, vibration, and temperature changes during transit creates the perfect storm for glass damage. When glass breaks in a frame, it doesn't just ruin the protective glazing—it can damage the frame itself and create safety hazards.

Statistics That Tell the Story

Industry data shows that frames shipped with glass have a 15-25% higher damage rate compared to frames shipped without glazing. This translates to:

• Increased replacement costs
• Delayed delivery times
• Customer frustration
• Environmental waste from damaged products

The Smart Alternative: Local Glass Installation

Instead of risking damage during shipping, we recommend purchasing picture frame glass locally. This approach offers several advantages:

Perfect Fit Guaranteed: Local glass shops can cut glazing to exact specifications, ensuring a perfect fit for your frame.

Quality Options: You can choose from various glass types including UV-protective, anti-reflective, or museum-quality glazing.

Cost-Effective: Local glass cutting is often more affordable than shipping replacement glass multiple times.

Immediate Availability: No waiting for shipping—get your frame ready to display immediately.

Professional Frame Protection During Transit

Our frames are designed withshipping-optimized packaging that includes:

• Corner protectors to prevent joint damage
• Moisture barriers to prevent warping
• Cushioned wrapping for delicate finishes
• Reinforced boxes sized specifically for frame dimensions

This specialized packaging ensures your frame arrives in perfect condition, ready for local glass installation.

Environmental Benefits

Shipping frames without glass also reduces our environmental impact:

• Lower shipping weight reduces carbon emissions
• Reduced packaging materials needed
• Fewer damaged products ending up in landfills
• Support for local businesses in your community

How to Get Glass for Your Frame

Getting glass for your new frame is simple:

1. Measure your frame opening carefully
2. Visit a local glass shop or hardware store
3. Choose your glazing type based on your needs
4. Have it cut to size (usually available same-day)

Most local glass shops offer this service for $10-30, depending on size and glass type—often less than shipping insurance would cost.

The Bottom Line: Better Frames, Better Experience

By shipping frames without glass, we can focus on what we do best: creating beautiful, durable frames that arrive safely at your door. This approach has reduced our damage claims by over 80% and improved customer satisfaction significantly.

Your frame investment is protected, you get exactly the glazing you want, and you support local businesses in the process. It's a win-win solution that puts quality and customer satisfaction first.