Environmental conditions during transport can permanently damage artwork. Understanding climate control requirements is essential for anyone shipping valuable pieces.
The Science of Art Damage
Artwork materials respond to environmental changes in ways that can cause irreversible harm:
Temperature Effects - Rapid temperature changes cause materials to expand and contract at different rates - Canvas can become brittle in cold conditions - Adhesives may fail in extreme heat - Varnishes can crack or become cloudy
Humidity Impact - High humidity encourages mold growth and foxing - Low humidity causes desiccation and cracking - Fluctuating humidity is most damaging, causing repeated stress cycles
Vulnerable Materials
Different media have varying sensitivities:
Most Sensitive - Works on paper (drawings, watercolors, prints) - Photographs and photographic materials - Panel paintings and wooden sculptures - Mixed media with organic components
Moderately Sensitive - Oil paintings on canvas - Acrylic paintings - Bronze and metal sculptures
Most Resilient - Stone sculptures - Ceramics (unglazed may be more sensitive) - Glass art
Climate-Controlled Transport Solutions
Professional art shippers use several strategies to maintain optimal conditions:
Climate-Controlled Vehicles Purpose-built trucks maintain temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C) and relative humidity between 45-55%. These conditions remain stable regardless of outside weather.
Insulated Crating Museum-grade crates provide additional thermal buffering, slowing any temperature changes that might occur during loading and unloading.
Acclimatization Protocols Artwork should acclimate to destination conditions gradually. Never unpack immediately after transport from different climate zones.
Monitoring During Transit
At Artliner, we use data loggers in every shipment to track temperature and humidity throughout the journey. This documentation provides peace of mind and evidence for insurance purposes if questions arise.
Planning for Climate
Consider climate risks when scheduling shipments. Summer heat waves and winter cold snaps pose additional challenges. Spring and fall typically offer more moderate conditions for transport.
The Artliner Logistics Team
Art Shipping Experts
Expert in art logistics with years of experience ensuring safe transport of valuable artworks across the United States.
