
Shipping Antiques: Preserving the Past with Care
Shipping antiques requires special attention and care to ensure these valuable and often delicate items reach their destination unharmed. We know the things you need to know before getting started. Whether you’re a collector, dealer, or someone sending a cherished family heirloom, follow these tips to safeguard your antiques during transit.
Tips
Ship N Crate’s years of experience have tested and proven these tips many times over.
1. Proper Packaging is Paramount:
– Begin by wrapping the antique in acid-free tissue paper to protect its surface from scratches.
– Use bubble wrap or foam padding to provide cushioning, paying extra attention to delicate areas.
– Place the item in a sturdy box, leaving enough space for additional padding on all sides, including the bottom and top as well.
2. Select the Right Box:
– Choose a box that fits the antique snugly, minimizing movement during transit.
– Opt for a double-walled, corrugated cardboard box for added strength.
– If possible you can alternatively use a sturdy wooden crate.
– Reinforce the corners and seams with extra tape to prevent the box from collapsing.
3. Crate Larger Items:
– For larger antiques or items with irregular shapes, consider custom crating for maximum protection.
– Use wooden crates for extremely valuable or fragile pieces, ensuring they are securely fastened.
4. Label Fragile Items Clearly:
– Clearly mark the package as fragile to alert handlers to exercise caution.
– Use arrows to indicate the correct upright position of the item.
5. Insurance is Essential:
– Insure your antique for its full value. In the unfortunate event of damage or loss, proper insurance will provide financial protection.
– Keep detailed documentation and photographs of the item for insurance claims.
– Take photos of the item prior to packing and upon delivery.
6. Choose a Reputable Shipping Company:
– Research and select a shipping company with experience in handling delicate and valuable items.
– Inquire about their specific procedures for shipping antiques and their track record for safe deliveries.
7. Temperature and Humidity Control:
– Be mindful of the environmental conditions during transit. Extreme temperatures or humidity can adversely affect certain antiques.
– If necessary, use climate-controlled shipping options.
8. Customs Documentation for International Shipping:
– If shipping internationally, research and provide all necessary customs documentation.
– Clearly declare the item’s value and include any required permits or certificates.
9. Communicate with the Recipient:
– Inform the recipient about the impending delivery, allowing them to prepare for the arrival of the antique.
– Provide tracking information so they can monitor the shipment’s progress.
10. Post-Delivery Inspection:
– Upon receiving the antique, inspect it thoroughly for any signs of damage.
– If damage is discovered, document it immediately and contact the shipping company to initiate a claim.
By following these tips, you can increase the likelihood of your antique arriving safely at its destination. Remember, the extra effort invested in proper packaging and choosing the right shipping method is a small price to pay for preserving the beauty and history of these treasured items. Ship N Crate is on standby to ensure your item receives this care. Safe shipping ensures that the stories carried by antiques endure for generations to come.