Fine Art & Antique Shipping
Specialist Protection for Irreplaceable Objects
Paintings, sculptures, antiques and collections cannot be treated like ordinary parcels. Their construction, condition, value, dimensions and destination all affect how they should be handled. ShipLink brings collection, specialist packing, bespoke crating and worldwide transport together through one experienced team.
UK COLLECTION
BESPOKE WOODEN CRATES
AIR, SEA & ROAD FREIGHT
CUSTOMS SUPPORT
WORLDWIDE DELIVERY
Protection begins before the artwork is moved
A framed work may have vulnerable glazing, an antique may have loose or projecting components, and a sculpture may carry its weight through only a few contact points. We assess the object and journey before recommending protection. The aim is to control movement, reduce pressure on vulnerable areas and create a handling plan appropriate to the route.
What ShipLink can coordinate
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Collection from galleries, auction houses, studios, storage facilities and private addresses
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Condition-aware handling and protective wrapping
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Made-to-measure cartons, cases and bespoke wooden crates
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Internal cushioning, bracing and separation for multi-piece consignments
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UK delivery and international transport by suitable road, air or sea service
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Shipment documentation and customs coordination for the movements we manage
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Delivery to galleries, exhibitions, businesses and private residences, subject to access and service agreement
Typical shipments
Every category of object presents its own physical challenges, from vulnerable surfaces and delicate structural points to complex internal mechanisms. ShipLink provides tailored protection and handling strategies configured specifically for the unique requirements of each item.
Paintings & Framed Works
Secure transit for canvases, panels, and glazed pieces.
Sculpture
Specialised weight-distribution and support configurations.
Ceramics & Glass
High-fragility internal isolation and cushioning techniques.
Clocks & Mirrors
Immobilisation of delicate internal components and surfaces.
Antique Furniture
Custom structural protection for fragile joints and finishes.
Decorative Objects & Archives
Safe transport for valuable artifacts and paper portfolios.
How The Services Works
Different industries bring different risks, handling requirements, and deadlines. We assess the item, value, destination, and delivery conditions before recommending a solution—never a one-size-fits-all service.
TELL US ABOUT THE SHIPMENT
Share photographs, dimensions, weight, value, collection address, destination, and required delivery date
WE DESIGN THE SOLUTION
We recommend the packing or crating method, transport route, customs requirements, and appropriate insurance options
WE MANAGE THE JOURNEY
Our team coordinates collection, packing, documentation, freight, and final delivery, keeping you informed throughout
Our Projects
packing and shipment of a large-format painting
Why Choose Shiplink Ltd?
Accountable Contact
One accountable contact across packing and transport.
Object-Specific Design
Protection designed around the individual object
Custom Crating
Custom crating available for large, fragile and high-value works
Sector Experience
Experience coordinating galleries, auction purchases and private collections
Risk Management
Route selection based on handling risk as well as cost and urgency
Clear communication
Real people, practical advice and progress updates throughout the shipment
UK Collection, Worldwide Delivery
ShipLink coordinates collections from London, East Sussex, Hampshire, Berkshire, Surrey and locations where service is available. Domestic and international delivery options depend on the item, access, carrier acceptance and destination. Confirm the collection scope in every quotation rather than implying unrestricted nationwide availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I obtain an accurate art-shipping quotation?
Send clear photographs, framed and unframed dimensions where relevant, approximate weight, declared value, collection and delivery details, access information and your required date.
Can you collect from an auction house or gallery?
Yes. Provide the collection reference, release requirements, opening hours, contact details and any collection deadline so the handover can be planned.
Does every artwork need a wooden crate?
No. The appropriate protection depends on construction, fragility, value, route and handling environment. Some works suit layered protective packing or a reinforced carton; others require a purpose-built crate.
Can you ship several artworks together?
Yes. We can assess whether individual cases, separated compartments, a consolidated crate or multiple packages provide the safest and most practical solution.
Do you arrange international art shipping?
Yes. We coordinate suitable transport and shipment documentation for international movements we manage. Duties, taxes, licences and import decisions remain subject to the relevant authorities
Is shipment protection or insurance available?
Available protection depends on the goods, value, packing, route and policy terms. We will explain the applicable options and required evidence before booking; no cover should be implied until confirmed in writing.
Not sure how to ship it?
That's exactly where we can help.
Tell us what you need to move and where it needs to go. Our specialists will recommend the right packing and shipping solution.