Fine art logistics starts before a crate is cut. A condition survey photographs existing damage, notes frame construction and identifies sensitive surfaces — varnish, gilding, patina — that dictate handling and interior padding.
When you need a custom crate
- Sculpture or ceramics where point loading can crack unsupported areas.
- Large canvases that cannot travel in vertical orientation without stress on the stretcher.
- Museum loans where the borrowing institution specifies crate dimensions and ISPM-15 timber.
- International lanes with humidity swings — sealed cases with desiccant or climate monitoring.
Interior systems
Foam-lined travel frames suspend paintings away from crate walls. Sculptures often use bespoke saddles and soft restraints rather than tight strapping. Glass-fronted works may travel in face-out frames with shock-absorbing corners. The goal is zero direct contact between artwork and exterior plywood.
Documentation chain
Every handover — studio to crate, crate to truck, customs to destination — should reference the same condition report. Insurers and registrars expect sequential signatures. MoveNXT fine art teams work in white gloves with photographic evidence at each stage.
Domestic vs international
Domestic gallery rotations may use reusable art shuttles for repeated routes. International movements add customs inspection access panels and fumigation certificates. Planning both legs under one manager avoids repacking at port.
See fine art mobility for domestic and international programmes from MoveNXT.
