A method of coating a stent is provided that minimizes damage to the coating. The stent is self-expanding and made of a superelastic material. The stent is initially cooled so that at least part of the structure of the stent transforms to a martensitic phase. The stent is then compressed, coated and loaded while the structure of the stent remains at least partially martensitic. After the stent is loaded into a tubular restraint, the loaded stent is allowed to warm to room temperature.
