The majority of artists and collectors are perplexed while preparing their artworks for the trip and the actual transportation procedure, especially when shipping art, generally statues. However, there is no need for concern because we can make this complex process appear simple.
Moving a statue differs from packing and transporting a painting or similar artwork. If you carefully box your items, they will remain secure during transportation. Given that you have no control over how statues will be handled or moved during shipping, you must take the appropriate care to wrap them properly.
PREPARE FOR SHIPPING:
Occasionally, people attempt to make cross-country moves easier by exporting their possessions. (We can help there). If you had a large, fragile sculpture, you could ship it while your movers moved the rest of your belongings. To pack as securely as possible, you should stock up on packing materials. Gather the following items:
- Shredder and Packaging Peanuts
- Polythene Wrap
- Packing Material
Or, let Us conduct an On-Site Crate Job for you so that you may be at ease with what is occurring!
PACKING STATUES OF DIFFERENT SHAPES FOR SHIPPING:
The same idea applies to sculptures of varying sizes and shapes. Whether you built or bought the statue, you should take the time to appropriately package it. It cannot be wrapped and placed in a box with ease. As shipping occasionally involves multiple modes of transit and handling, it is important to pack the item securely to prevent any potential damage. To transport statues safely, be careful to pack additional padding. Check with your movers to check whether they already have the packing materials you need to avoid overspending.
Each statue is unique and will have its own set of packaging needs to ensure its safe arrival. Because of this, it is necessary to analyze each company’s packaging and shipping procedures on an individual basis; what works for a giant marble sculpture may not work for a wooden carving or welded metal object, and we are keenly aware of this.
When packing a statue, three factors must be considered:
KEEPING IT UPRIGHT:
Even though shipping sculptures in an upright position may be difficult due to their height, it is the safest method.
PROTECTION AGAINST SHAKING:
Long-distance transporting a sculpture on the back of a truck can be difficult, and vibrations are frequently unavoidable. Sufficient cushioning is the best defence against shaking, but a car with air-riding suspension provides a smoother ride.
PROTECTION AGAINST IMPACTS LIKE DROPS OR BUMPS:
Sculptures are more likely to be knocked over or dropped during loading and unloading because of their weight.
When transporting sculptures, crating is a common and generally regarded as the safest packing method. Professional movers will typically hold your sculpture in a vertical position on a pallet before constructing a container around it, although this may not be necessary for minor statues. Regardless of the statue’s design, foam-padded containers are the greatest option for safeguarding it from jolts and damage during transport.
Due to their size, shape, weight, and fragility, it is almost always recommended that statues be professionally packed. You may be able to move your sculptures if they are small, sturdy, and of low sentimental or monetary value.
Wrapping the sculpture with bubble plastic wrap is the finest option. When transporting large or oddly shaped sculptures, it is recommended to wrap each component individually. It entails covering the top, middle, and bottom of the artwork. Ensure that there are no uncovered surfaces.
The final step is to apply one more layer of plastic wrap. Utilize artist tape to secure each layer. Do not directly tape the sculpture. When you remove the tape, the surface may be damaged. Only the plastic wrap’s ends should ever be taped. If your statue is made of wood, you may wish to wrap it with plastic wrap before covering it with moving pads or paper. During shipping, plastic may lose heat, causing damage to a hardwood surface. The same holds when packing wooden furniture.
PACKAGING PEANUTS:
Packing peanuts are a great alternative for filling the space in your container, but they are insufficient on their own. Small peanuts can move around a great deal during shipping and leave room, which increases the likelihood that your sculpture will run into the side of the crate and become broken or damaged. Use packing peanuts and shreds of paper to prevent movement within the box.
ARTISTS USING two BOXES FOR ADDITIONAL PROTECTION:
Artists typically utilize two boxes for added protection of their objects. Utilize each technique as if it were being shipped in that particular box. After securing the wooden container, place the package inside. Fill the area between the crate and the box with blankets, packing peanuts, or shredded paper. Put a directional arrow and a fragile label on the box to identify it.
LABELING THE WOODEN CARTON OR BOX:
Artists may apply this method when they wish to be cautious. It refers to putting your statue in the box. Use each step as if you were shipping the item in that specific package. After securing the wooden container, place the package inside. Then, fill the area between the crate and the box with blankets, packing peanuts, shredded paper, or whatever else you like. Put a fragile label and an arrow on the side of the box to indicate its fragility.
WHICH IS BETTER: BOXES OR WOODEN CRATES?
Depending on the size of your statue, you may choose between a box or a wooden crate. For little or medium-sized sculptures, transportable crates are an ideal alternative. Moving boxes differ from standard retail boxes. Even though they are not as sturdy as moving boxes, most grocery stores and convenience stores offer complimentary boxes.
Moving cartons are more robust since they are designed to sustain transit without decomposing. Moving boxes are available in a variety of sizes and designs. Use a box that is a few inches larger than your artwork whenever possible. You cannot place shredded paper in a box that properly fits the statue. In addition, there must be adequate room to wrap and fill the space with additional packing materials.
However, a much larger box requires more cushioning material between its edges and your statue. It is not the optimal strategy because it requires more packing materials and permits greater movement during shipment. Wooden boxes are an excellent choice for larger and heavier sculptures. You can either purchase or make the crate. The boards of a solid wood floor should not have any gaps between them. Before placing your sculpture in a wooden box, fill it with packing peanuts and, if applicable, shredded paper.
PARCEL SHIPPING IS THE BEST OPTION FOR SHIPPING A SINGLE TINY STATUE OR A QUICK SHIPPING OPTION
Consolidated freight is ideal for frequent or high-volume shipments, long-distance artwork relocations, and the transport of large collections. Custom Crating and Logistics can help; our skilled logistics coordinators can connect you with a trustworthy artwork shipping company and collaborate with you to build a shipping strategy that meets your schedule, budget, and recurring shipments.
