In the world of fine art logistics, many hold a misconception that the greatest risk occurs during transit. However, the overwhelming number of damage cases within the industry of antique shipping services happens at the final stages of transportation. What is the last-mile delivery so unforgiving? And what precautions can prevent these risks?
Importance of Last-Mile Delivery in Antique Shipping Services
A properly packaged and crated antique object stays in a controlled environment during transit. That’s why the level of risk is comparably lower than at various handover points. However, the crate needs to be opened at the point of delivery, which destabilizes its environment and elevates the risks of handling. Sometimes, antiques are moved right to the point of installation in their crates. But what happens if they aren’t? Every move of the uncrated antique through doorways, staircases, and lobbies is a point of vulnerability that should be avoided when possible.
How Do Art Movers Reduce Last-Mile Delivery Risks?
To address the last-mile risk in antique shipping services, art movers take a variety of precautions at all stages. First comes the pre-move survey, during which art handlers examine the art object and identify the vulnerability points of post-delivery handover.
Second, different art handling tools are used to provide more protection to an antique object. These may include soft-jaw clamps, furniture skates, specialized stair equipment, and edge protectors, the combination of which is chosen in proper regard to each object’s unique type, needs, and dimensions.
Team coordination also plays a vital role in the entire choreography of antique logistics across locations. The way teamwork is pre-negotiated and planned makes a real difference to the outcomes. As a rule, one coordinator manages the activities of all art handlers at different stages. Antique moving stands no improvisation, and all communication is kept formal and consistent to avoid misunderstanding.
Things to Check with Your Antique Moving Company
Do not hesitate to ask your chosen company about its experience in antique transportation, with a special focus on last-mile delivery. You can also ask its representatives about whether they conduct a pre-move examination of the object and check its condition at the destination location, what equipment they are going to use along the way, and how many art handlers will be involved in the project.