Shipping antiques can be nerve-racking due to the value and fragility of these items. Whether you are selling/buying an antique or simply sending one to a new location, the shipping process must be performed with extra caution & care to ensure that your antiques arrive at their destination safely. In this article, we’ll offer you four tips on how you can ensure that your antiques remain safe and sound during shipping and transit! If you have any questions about shipping antiques or if you’d like to get a free estimate on a specialized packing, crating, and shipping service for your antiques, please contact our team at Extreme Packing Solutions today!
Inspect the Condition of the Item
Before packing, photograph the antique in its current condition, that way the photos can serve as evidence in the event that you need to submit an insurance claim. You should also examine the antique for any previous damage or structural weaknesses (e.g., cracks, loose joints, and delicate finishes) that could put the item at risk during the shipping process.
Use Appropriate Packing Materials
When shipping an antique, you need to ensure that you are using the appropriate packing materials in order to ensure the item’s safety throughout the shipment. Some packing materials that you should consider include acid-free paper, bubble wrap, VCI wrapping, foam padding, packing peanuts, and more. Make sure that your antique is well secured and padded to help protect it from any bumps that may occur along the way.
Select the Adequate Crate or Box
Use a strong wooden crate for larger or heavier items to protect them completely. When sending smaller items, place them in a double-walled cardboard box that is just a tad larger than the item itself to allow for room for padding. You should also be sure to secure the crate or box before sending it off by using heavy-duty tape or robust fasteners.
Hire a Specialized Packing, Crating, and Shipping Company
The best way to ensure the safety of your antique(s) throughout the shipping process is to hire a professional with experience packing & shipping antiques and other fragile goods. Be sure to look for a company that offers the following services:
Custom Packing Solutions
The company should pack your antique(s) in specialized packing products like custom-cut foam and shock-absorbing padding. The packing should be specially tailored for each item to ensure it does not get damaged while being shipped.
Professional Crating Services
For larger antiques, a custom crate may be necessary. Look for a company that has the ability to make custom wood crates that are designed to perfectly fit your antique. Custom-built crates will offer the best protection possible for your antique during the shipping process. The crate should include shock-absorbing inserts to prevent movement and harm.
Contact Extreme Packing Solutions!
Extreme Packing Solutions offers specialized packing and shipping services for all kinds of items, including antiques, fine art, electronics, computers, and a wide range of other fragile, high-value items throughout the Greater Boston area and beyond! To learn more, please give us a call at (978) 232-9190 or fill out the contact form on our website, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible! If you would like a free quote on a packing and shipping service, please click here to fill out our estimate form!