The Hidden Cost of Inexperienced Art Handling: Why Professional Crating Matters

When a piece of art leaves a gallery, its journey isn’t over—it’s just entering a more fragile stage.

Whether it’s heading to a collector, another gallery, or a traveling exhibition, artwork in transit faces risks most people never consider. A slight vibration during shipping, a sudden shift in humidity, or a poorly placed strap can all lead to disaster.

Yet far too many art galleries still trust general movers—or even in-house staff—with the delicate task of packing and transporting priceless pieces. The result? Damage, delays, and more often than not, regret.

This is why professional art crating services aren’t a luxury—they’re a necessity.

The Real Cost of Poor Art Handling

Hiring non-specialized handlers for your artwork shipping needs might seem like a money-saver, but it often becomes a financial and reputational burden.

Here’s what’s at stake:

• Repair & Restoration Costs: Even a minor tear in a canvas or nick in a sculpture can mean thousands in repair—or worse, permanent value loss.

• Devaluation of Artwork: Once damaged, even expertly repaired pieces often lose their provenance and market value.

• Strained Relationships: Artists, collectors, and curators expect white-glove care. One mistake can damage a long-term partnership.

• Insurance Headaches: Claims tied to improper packing or shipping are often denied by fine art insurers.

Art isn’t just precious—it’s personal. That’s why proper art handling should never be an afterthought.

Why General Movers Fall Short

Most traditional movers simply don’t have the tools, materials, or training for fine art transportation.

• Generic Packing Materials: Cardboard and bubble wrap might work for furniture—not for oil paintings or framed photography.

• No Environmental Consideration: Temperature swings and humidity can warp canvases, damage paper, or cloud glass.

• Improper Crating Techniques: One size does not fit all. Artworks need custom-fit crating that prevents movement and absorbs shock.

Inexperienced movers don’t just lack technical skill—they lack an understanding of what’s at stake.

Why Custom Art Crating Services Make All the Difference

With professional art crating services, every detail is tailored to the specific piece. This isn’t just about protection—it’s about preservation.

• Custom-Built Crates: Designed for each piece’s size, shape, and fragility. Whether it’s a massive sculpture or a delicate mixed-media piece, there’s no guesswork.

• Archival-Grade Materials: Acid-free wrapping, foam cushioning, vapor barriers, and climate-safe interiors protect against more than just bumps.

• Safe, Documented Handling: Every step of the artwork shipping process is tracked, ensuring full visibility and accountability.

Art deserves more than just a “fragile” sticker. It deserves professional care from the inside of the crate to final installation.

What to Look for in an Art Transportation Partner

Not all art logistics companies are created equal. When choosing a partner, look for:

• Proven experience with art handling and art transportation

• Custom crating capabilities for a wide range of artwork types

• National reach and vetted professional networks

• White-glove pickup, delivery, and installation

• Transparent communication and full insurance support

Why Art Galleries Trust Relo Solutions Group

At Relo Solutions Group, we specialize in professional art crating services and custom logistics for galleries across the U.S.

Our nationwide network of art handling experts ensures that your pieces are packed, crated, and transported with the care they deserve. We work with galleries of all sizes to take the guesswork—and risk—out of artwork shipping.

Whether you’re sending a single painting across town or an entire exhibition across the country, we’ll make sure your artwork arrives just as it left: safe, secure, and exhibition-ready.

Final Thoughts: The Value of Peace of Mind

Cutting corners in art transportation doesn’t just cost money—it costs trust, time, and reputation.

Investing in professional art crating services means protecting your gallery’s legacy, your artists’ creations, and your clients’ expectations.

Because when it comes to artwork, “good enough” is never good enough. That’s why hundreds of art galleries across the country trust Relo Solutions Group for our artwork crating and professional artwork packaging services. Reach out to our team or find more about our services for art galleries today.