The process of making ceramics is too complex and knotty to let the pottery easily break during transportation. The immense value and exceptional fragility of hardened earthenware make it one of the most difficult freights that shippers come across in their practice. Owners of breakables are as responsible for the safety of their items as movers, especially in situations when they provide packaging. For this particular reason, it is always a good idea to remind yourself about the dos and don’ts of packing ceramics for shipping. Here are some of the most important ones!
Dos and Don’ts of Packing Ceramics for Shipping
Do pack things separately
Pressure is one of the biggest foes of ceramics, which is why you need to provide separate shipping boxes for different types of items. Moreover, it is a good idea to pack lids and other extra stuff apart from their main parts.
Don’t use newspaper for wrapping
Newspapers are for reading, not packing. If you use them, you increase the chance of rubbing harmful elements onto the surface of the objects. You should also avoid using any acidic materials, as they are dangerous.
Do choose a container that is firm in structure
Packing ceramics for shipping is impossible without a sturdy container that will withstand the weight of objects and won’t let them move inside. Don’t choose boxes made of soft materials that can be deformed if you try to pack things tight.
Don’t make the package too tight
At the same time, extra pressure will only harm the content of a container, so you need to find the fine balance between “packed like sardines” and “a leaf in the wind.”
Do pay special attention to objects with decoration
Some ceramics have decorations over the glaze, which makes the area especially susceptible to scratches. This problem can be solved when you fill the box with padding material and make the movement of that particular area impossible.
Don’t use gloves
Moving gloves are not always a boon. When packing ceramics for shipping, gloves, no matter the material, can reduce your hands’ sensitivity and hence lead to accidental damage. It is best if you wash your hands, dry them, and touch ceramics without any protection.
Summing Up
As you see, there are quite a few nuances that you should consider in advance. Once you know all of them, your chances of success will be much higher than before. And while you are here, feel free to contact Fine Art Shippers to ensure the safe transportation of your packages.