Art transportation is one of the most fundamental services for the entire art market. From local artists to international art fairs, everyone and everything depend on the art logistics. When you ship art at short distances, you usually don’t attach significance to what art transport is used in the process. However, when you want to ship paintings overseas, the difference in means of transport is crucial. What vehicles are used in art logistics, and how to choose the right one?
Fine art transport: how to ship art with confidence
Art logistics has three main transportation methods: by truck, ship, or plane.
Trucks
Trucks are the most common way to deliver paintings or sculptures. Nowadays, art moving companies use climate-controlled cars with a GPS tracking system. Road transportation is cost-effective and rather flexible as shipping routes can change according to clients’ preferences. Despite numerous benefits of such art transport, time and safety remain the major issues of truck services.
Sea vs. air
The next comparison should be made between sea and air. International shipping implies far greater challenges than a local one. For example, customs clearance can cause a lot of problems to unaware people. By contrast, you get exclusive benefits that road transportation doesn’t have.
Air transport is arguably the fastest and safest method of shipping art since any harmful vibrations are eliminated. At the same time, shipping art by plain will cost you a pretty penny. Transportation by air has its own limitations that you should consider as well.
As for ships, they are far cheaper than planes and cannot boast a high level of safety. Speed is one more downgrade of marine transportation. Maritime delivery services usually take longer than any other method.
Which fine art transport is right for you? First, you should calculate all pros and cons of each method. Second, pay attention to your budget. Third, make sure to turn to an art advisory firm and consult with professionals on this particular subject.