Facts and Tips for Shipping Art

Fine art shipping is a delicate process that should involve a professional shipper if possible. Fine art shipping packages will include the proper support and air that may be required to avoid damage to the artwork. Fine art may be shipped via ground, air or ocean. Clients shipping fine art should consider the following tips before shipping art overseas or to a new home in another city.

What is Fine Art?
Fine art is defined as sculptures, ceramics, glass art, oil paintings, statues, antiques, artifacts, historical pieces and countless other types of art. Most of the works of art are invaluable to the owner. If the artwork is damaged, the replacement value may not cover the sentimental attachment of the work of art and in many instances, the art work is irreplaceable. Finding a reputable fine art shipper is essential to preserving the art work.

What is the Preferred Method for Shipping Fine Art?
Most professional fine art movers will package the art work in crates to prevent any damage that may occur. Crates will prevent the artwork from being damaged by other boxes, and they will prevent the artwork from moving inside the box as the piece is moved from one location to another. For example, a statue may be easily damaged if not packaged in a crate. The crate will hold the statue in place by building lattice-like scaffolding around the statue to provide support to the statute. This will prevent breakage and cracks in the statue.

Oil paintings may be wrapped carefully and placed in a lattice-like suspension or placed in protective material that will prevent rips, tears and holes through the canvas. For proper shipping, select a shipper that has 25 years or more experience with this particular type of shipping. Clients that hire an experienced shipper will ensure that their art work arrives in tact rather than just relying on the insurance money that may be collected if the art is damaged in transit.

What Happens if the Art is Damaged?
Keep in mind that all fine art movers will pay for the replacement value of the item if the item cannot be repaired. Most companies will insure a piece of art work up to $1 million dollars. Verify that the company has insured your fine art before entrusting the piece to the movers. If the fine art is damaged, the damaged art will most likely diminish in value. Given this, most companies would probably provide a settlement to the owner as opposed to repairing the artwork. Damaged art can be an emotional experience for clients; so, every precaution should be taken to protect the artwork.

Which Companies will Ship My Fine Art?
Shippers will often use common carriers such as FedEx, UPS or other services once the artwork is framed. However, household moving companies will use their own freight services if the move is domestic. Clients should inquire about the frequency of damage when using their personal movers versus a commercial shipper to ensure optimal safety for your prized possession.

What Should I Do if I am in Transition?
If you are not sure of your next location and are in the process of selling your home, some

Mike Moore is published on more than 200 websites. His business articles cover a range of topics from customer servict to shipping fine art, moving, and freight shipping He is published across the net including http://www.santabarbarapackandpost.com

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