Shipping or moving works of art can sometimes result in damage.
Handling operations such as loading and unloading can be hazardous
for fragile objects that are improperly packaged. Even the
shocks and vibration in moving vehicles can cause problems.
To protect your precious objects, it is important that they
be packed and cushioned properly prior to transit. This is
especially crucial if the items are not being moved by a specialized
art handler.
General Packaging Tips
Before packing an item, check it carefully for any damage
or loose pieces. Loose or vibration prone items should be
gently restrained. In some cases, disassembly of vibration
prone items might be preferable.
Ensure that all objects are cushioned sufficiently to prevent
damage from shock or vibration. The cushioning material should
be well matched to the weight of the object — neither
too firm nor too stiff. A cushion thickness of 50 mm or more
is recommended for fragile items. There are many acceptable
cushioning designs: complete wrapping (encapsulation) is one
option and individual pads is another. If using individual
pads, a symmetrical layout that supports the object evenly
is recommended.
If several objects are to be shipped together, package them
as a unit (with a firm interleave material between them) and
support the unit evenly with cushioning on all sides. An easy
way to cushion more than one item is to pack all of the items
firmly into one container such as a cardboard box, and then
support this container on individual pads. The assembly can
then be placed inside a larger box or container.
Even the most carefully selected cushioning material will
not work if the objects cannot deflect into it enough to dissipate
shock and vibration energy. To help ensure that objects can
move freely enough to accomplish this, make sure the parts
of the packaging system are carefully fitted and can be assembled
without force.
Wrapping a cushioned item in polyethylene will help it slide
freely on the protective cushions as well as protect it against
abrasion. Further benefits of a polyethylene wrap include
the exclusion (or containment) of insect pests provided there
are no gaps or seams greater than 0.5 mm. Poly wrap also allows
the object to be observed for possible insect activity before
it is introduced into a new environment. However, before wrapping
an item it is important to ensure that it is not damp or conditioned
to a moist environment.
Packaging Tips for Paintings
Paintings should always be framed prior to packaging. If
a painting does not already have a frame, a temporary travel
frame can be built or bought at an art supply store.
Protect the front and the back of the framed painting with
a sheet of rigid cardboard or fluted plastic sheet that is
at least 0.3 cm thick.
Paintings can be damaged by sudden or extreme changes in
temperature and humidity, and must be protected during transit.
Wrapping a painting firmly in polyethylene and taping the
folded over seams in place (making sure that the wrapping
takes place under the humidity conditions that you want to
maintain) will provide protection against fluctuations in
humidity. If low temperatures are anticipated during shipment,
insulation against temperature changes is also necessary.
Foam packing materials can double as insulators if all sides
of the painting are covered. Otherwise, inexpensive Styrofoam
insulation can be used in conjunction with other cushioning
methods such as individual pads. It is important to ensure
that the object is evenly protected, i.e. there will be no
cold spots.
Packaging for paintings should also provide protection from
water and pests. Cardboard containers might be suitable for
local moves where moisture or water contact is unlikely. However,
for other shipments, a well constructed and painted container
made of 9.5 mm (3/8-in.) plywood with framing offers better
protection.‘Road cases' can also provide good, re-usable
packaging as long as they are well sealed.
All packing cases should be large enough to accommodate a
protective lining (such as Styrofoam or polyurethane foam
to protect against changes in temperature) and suitable cushioning.
The cushioning design must be such that the painting cannot
come into contact with the inner surfaces of the traveling
case (and make sure that nothing is placed in this space because
the packed object may need to deflect into this area to dissipate
shocks and vibration).
General Tips for Transport
Do not pile packages loosely on top of each other, as they
could fall over in response to vehicle movement. If possible,
secure packages in the vehicle being used for transportation
so that they cannot shift or bounce repetitively. Remember
that a moving vehicle can create enough force to cause even
a heavy package to bounce. Tying a package down or securing
it to the sidewall of a truck is one of the best means of
avoiding damage during shipment.
When moving particularly fragile or valuable items, it may
be wise to consider using professional article handlers.
