All art objects are delicate and vulnerable, requiring special treatment in the process of packaging and shipping. However, these rules apply not only to the traditional works of art, such as sculptures and paintings. Ceramics are also fragile, regardless of their age, and even contemporary ceramics should be treated like fine art throughout transportation. Here is an exhaustive list of dos and don’ts for shipping ceramics.

Professional Recommendations for Shipping Ceramics Safely

Every shipping project starts with a thorough assessment. Professionals evaluate all items they need to transport and examine ceramics for cracks, repairs, and loose elements with higher-than-average fragility. Each object’s condition is documented with photo and video evidence.

Another must-do in ceramics transportation is following a two-layer protection rule. The inner packaging offers a protective, well-padded environment for the ceramic artwork, while the outer box, made of shipping-grade carton, gives 2-3 inches of extra cushioning. This way, the object inside the box enjoys top-tier shock absorption.

Third, professionals always use acid-free materials for wrapping ceramic objects. The first layer of packaging should be non-abrasive, non-adhesive, and fully free of acid content for the sake of protecting the artwork’s surface from damage. The second wrapping layer should represent a foam sheet or bubble wrap, with bubbles facing outward. All wrapping layers should be secured with painter’s tape.

The object should be properly immobilized inside the packaging box, with a correct balance of weight and orientation achieved under expert guidance. It is a must to use professional-grade tape and boxes, insure the package for safe transportation, and hire specialized shippers to complete the shipping task. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Professional, delicate treatment of ceramics should be devoid of the following blunders:

• Using a newspaper or colored tissue for wrapping.
• Leaving empty space inside the box to let the ceramic object shift inside it during transportation.
• Mixing several ceramic objects inside a single wrapping bundle.
• Placing tape directly onto the item’s surface.
• Reusing old boxes of the wrong sizes.
• Tight wrapping of the object.

Any of these mistakes can lead to irreparable damage, such as surface scratches or breakage. Thus, they should be avoided by all means, even if you’re packaging ceramics on your own.

Need to Ship Ceramics? Our Team Can Help

If you face the need to ship ceramics and don’t want to risk your property, it’s time to partner with a team of professionals. Art handlers from Fine Art Shippers are ready to assume full responsibility for the task of shipping ceramics risk-free. We can pack your collection onsite, ensure secure loading and transportation, and unpack everything at the destination point.