Short-term art storage is an indispensable element of art logistics, frequently used during temporary exhibitions, art fairs, and auctions. Its security level isn’t lower than that of long-term storage, but short-term storage solutions are typically organized with accessibility and mobility as their main priorities. Here are the details.

Short-Term vs. Long-Term Storage: What Is the Difference?

The main difference between short-term and long-term storage solutions for art is in their duration; storage that doesn’t exceed 3-6 months can be referred to as short-term. It is usually used for the needs of relocations, house renovations, and temporary exhibitions.

Long-term storage, in turn, spans from several months to several years. It is relevant for artworks that are not currently on display or art objects bought as a long-term investment. Inherited collections may also be stored for years in secure vaults. 

When Do You Need Short-Term Art Storage Solutions?

Art owners, dealers, and art-related entities resort to short-term storage solutions in the following situations.

• Relocation and renovation. Homeowners and collectors may need a temporary storage facility for their collections when they move to another house or renovate their residences, which creates unstable conditions for art. In these cases, art objects should be properly protected from dust and construction-related hazards.
• Storage between auctions or exhibitions. Many artworks should stay in well-protected storage facilities as they await transportation to an auction or an exhibition. The duration of that intermediary period may be too short to organize long-term storage for them.
• Property sales. Homeowners planning a sale of their property should pack and store their art collections in a safe place to avoid potential damage during visits by potential buyers.
• The owner’s temporary absence. If art owners plan to be absent for an extended period of time, they may choose to send their valuable art to well-protected temporary storage instead of leaving the collection in their premises without supervision.
• Emergencies. If a risk of flood or hurricane is announced in an art owner’s location, it makes sense to send art to a secure, protected storage facility to avoid its loss or damage.

Turn to Fine Art Shippers for Reliable Storage of Any Duration

Whether you’re looking for a reliable and secure short-term art storage option or seek long-term, sustainable solutions, Fine Art Shippers is ready to help. Our museum-grade art storage in Upper Manhattan checks all security boxes and provides flexible services for any duration. Contact our Operations Office to learn more about available options; we’ll be happy to provide you with professional art storage services in New York.