As soon as you face the need to deliver your fine art belongings from one place to another, there is always a dilemma about the optimal transportation mode. On the one hand, deliveries by specialized fine art logistics companies are the most secure, as art shuttle service providers often have trained teams of art handlers. On the other hand, using a regular delivery service like FedEx or UPS may seem more familiar and cost-effective.
So, which option is better for your specific case? Read on to learn the main pluses and minuses of each mode of transportation and make an informed decision.
Pros and Cons of Using an Art Shuttle
Let’s start with the perks of booking a place for your artwork in an art shuttle. First, you can order end-to-end services, starting from on-site packaging and pick-up of your art object and ending with the unpacking and installation of the artwork in its place of destination. Second, you can save time and money on the crating service, as specialized art shuttles are designed to keep even soft-packed items properly stabilized and safe throughout the process of transit.
In addition, professionally equipped art shuttles come with climate control, air conditioning, and proper cushioning that make the entire delivery process safer. Finally, it’s the most optimal and cost-effective delivery method for domestic shipments of fragile and valuable art.
Pros and Cons of Relying on a Regular Shipping Service
If you opt for a regular shipping provider you’ve been working with for years, such as, for instance, FedEx or UPS, you may also get a quality service. Besides, you are sure to pay less for the delivery, as professional art shipping companies charge a bit extra for the advanced security measures and your property’s delicate treatment by a trained team of art handlers.
As for the minuses of this method, you should keep in mind that the task of ensuring the security of your art object will be your own responsibility. You may need to resort to a custom crating procedure, which will guarantee the artwork’s intactness but will cost you extra money. As a result, the cost savings may be not as significant as you initially thought when comparing specialized art shuttles against FedEx/UPS services.
Contact Fine Art Shippers to Book a Seat in Our Art Shuttle
As you can see, both methods are fine for specific shipping cases, and it’s possible to rely on regular delivery services if you can guarantee the safety of your artwork and understand the risks involved. Yet, we recommend using specialized art shuttles for delicate and fragile objects. If you’re still unsure which method suits you more, contact Fine Art Shippers to get a free consultation.