When shipping artwork or antiques, it is recommended to pack them in two sturdy boxes, whether they are being soft-packed or crated. This method of art packing, which is known as a double-case design, provides better environmental and physical protection for the item being shipped. The reason for that is quite simple: if damage happens, it is usually limited to the outer box. However, it is still crucial to ensure that the inner box is tight and filled with enough cushioning material to prevent the artwork or antique from moving inside. This is especially important for those items that don’t have a balanced load, or in case you are shipping several pieces within the same box.

If you need to ship antiques across the US or internationally, it is best to hire a trustworthy fine art shipping company in NYC. You may also need crating services for oversized or particularly delicate items. Proper crating can provide an added layer of protection during transit and help ensure that antiques and art pieces are moved safely and efficiently.

The next thing to consider is the shipping container. The structure and condition of the container are particularly important, especially when using second-hand shipping containers. There are several methods to transport antiques, but the most common ones include the following:

• Hard shell crates

Usually made from metal or plywood, these crates are used for shipping the most fragile, heavy, and large items like outdoor sculptures. This type of container can be made watertight or insulated, which allows it to protect the item inside from environmental fluctuations.

• Slat crates or open crates

This type of crate is distinguished by a wooden framework and can be used for shipping oversized and heavy items, though it is not as reliable as a hard shell crate. A slate crate may also come with paperboard facing, which provides certain protection from snow or rain.

• Soft packing

Soft packing, which comes without a hard shell, is the most affordable method of packing art and antiques. However, it is also the most unsafe, which makes it unsuitable for many valuable items. Despite this, it can be used if you order a professional white glove art courier service from a reliable moving company.

In this way, if you need to ship antiques or artwork, it is important to consult a professional art moving company before arranging transportation. Our team can provide further information and help you choose a shipping solution that suits your artwork and transportation needs.