Moving overseas is a thrilling adventure, full of opportunity and the promise of new experiences. However, the excitement of starting a new chapter in a different country can quickly devolve into stress when the logistics of transporting delicate belongings comes into play. Unlike the minor risks of a local move, the international shipping of these treasured possessions requires careful planning and specialised handling.
To make the process of shipping artwork overseas seamless, it is important to pack properly and consider the expert assistance of professional international removalists. With the right preparation and professional help, you can ensure your most prized possessions make the exciting journey abroad with you, safely and securely.
Proper Packing Techniques
To protect your fine art and antiques throughout the overseas shipping process, the correct packing techniques must be used for each individual item. Before you begin packing, your belongings should be thoroughly cleaned to remove any debris that might cause damage during travel.
Artwork
For artwork, the first step is to ensure it is secure within its frame and free from loose components. This is followed by wrapping the piece in acid-free paper and reinforcing this layer with Mylar or polyethylene, which prevents condensation build up and mould.
Despite bubble wrap appearing to offer the perfect protective layer with its delicate bubbles, this material is known to cause damage to artwork. Common packing materials, like bubble wrap, should not come into direct contact with the piece.
Artwork with shallow or unstable frames need to be removed completely from their frame and packed separately. If the original style poses the risk of defacing the piece during international shipping, it can be placed in a “shadow box” or a deeper frame style to increase its protection.
Antiques
When packing antiques, it’s important to be careful with the materials you use. Avoid taping directly on the surfaces, as tape can leave sticky residue or even damage the delicate finishes.
Instead, wrap each piece in soft blankets or cloth and add foam padding for extra protection. To keep everything secure during the move, pack each item individually in a box that fits it well, so it doesn’t shift around or bump into other delicate items.
This is similar to how mirrors are packed, where it’s best to keep them upright and avoid stacking anything on top to prevent any accidental damages.
Navigating Customs Regulations
Working around customs regulations can be one of the trickiest parts of moving your valuable items internationally, especially when it comes to things like fine art and antiques.
Each country has its own rules, which may include extra duties or taxes on your items once they arrive. It’s also common to need some paperwork, like appraisals, certificates of authenticity, or proof of value, to get everything easily cleared through customs.
To make sure you’re following all the right steps, it’s a good idea to check in with the embassy of your destination country or work with an experienced, overseas moving company who knows the ropes.
Overseas Packers & Shippers can help simplify the process with a quick quote for an initial delivery estimate, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience from start to finish. This way, you can avoid any custom surprises and ensure everything arrives smoothly to your destination.
Trusting Professional Expertise
When it comes to moving fine art and antiques, the best move is to trust the experts. Specialised companies in international relocation know exactly how to handle valuable items with care.
They use custom packing techniques, the right containers, and will even recommend the best shipping methods to make sure everything gets to its destination safely. While moving overseas can feel overwhelming – especially with irreplaceable possessions – a professional packing and shipping service takes a lot of that stress away.
With over 40 years of experience, a quick quote from Overseas Packers & Shippers can provide you with a reliable and efficient solution for transporting your valuable items internationally with ease. It’s a surefire way to get your artwork and antiques to your new home in perfect condition, giving you peace of mind throughout the entire journey.
An Overseas Shipping Guide for Fine Art and Antiques
Don’t let the excitement of your international move be overshadowed by the fear of your most prized possessions being damaged in the moving process. Overseas shipping does come with its own set of risks, but with the right packing methods, attention to climate factors, and a solid understanding of customs rules, you can protect your items at every step of the way.
Trusting the expert packers and shippers makes all the difference – we know exactly how to handle delicate pieces with care to ensure a smooth transition all the way to your new home.