CONTACT US:
Overview
Prime Lane was entrusted with the specialist packing and international shipment of a 1,200‑kg cast iron sculpture measuring three metres in length, destined for the United States. The piece required precision handling, custom-built protective casing, and coordinated heavy‑lift logistics to ensure its safe movement from the client's site to export. Our team managed every stage of the process—from on‑site preparation and secure crating to compliant international transport—delivering the sculpture safely and seamlessly to its onward destination.
Project Challenge
• Size: 3 metres in length
• Weight: Approximately 1200kg
• Location: London
• Fragility: Required zero movement during transit
• Destination: United States
Our Approach
1. Pre-Project Assessment & Planning
• Conducted a full site assessment to understand access constraints, floor load limits, and lifting requirements.
• Measured the sculpture (3 metres long) and evaluated its structural characteristics to determine safe lifting points and packing needs.
• Developed a tailored logistics plan covering packing design, lifting methodology, vehicle selection, export compliance, and international transit routing.
2. Custom Protective Packing Design
• Designed a bespoke heavy‑duty timber crate engineered to support the sculpture's 1,200‑kg weight and prevent movement during transit.
• Integrated internal bracing, vibration‑dampening materials, and reinforced load‑bearing panels.
• Applied corrosion‑inhibiting wrapping and protective layers to shield the cast iron surface from moisture and abrasion.
• Ensured all materials met international ISPM‑15 export standards.
3. Specialist Handling & On-Site Preparation
• Deployed a trained heavy‑lift team equipped with lifting beams, pallet trucks, and mechanical aids suitable for confined museum or workshop environments.
• Secured the sculpture using soft slings and controlled‑lift techniques to avoid stress on vulnerable areas.
• Positioned the sculpture into the custom crate using precision alignment to maintain weight balance and structural integrity.
Our Approach
4. Secure Transport to Export Facility
• Utilised a tail‑lift or HIAB‑equipped vehicle depending on site access and crate dimensions.
• Secured the crate using heavy‑duty ratchet systems, anti‑slip flooring, and load‑distribution methods to prevent shifting during road transport.
• Transported the sculpture to the designated export hub for customs processing and onward international handling.
5. Export Documentation & Compliance
• Prepared all required export paperwork, including commercial invoices, packing lists, commodity codes, and declarations.
• Coordinated with freight forwarders and U.S. import agents to ensure smooth customs clearance.
• Verified that all packing and labelling met U.S. import regulations and museum‑grade handling expectations.
6. International Shipping & Tracking
• Arranged secure air or sea freight depending on the client's timeline and budget.
• Ensured the crate was stowed in a position that minimised vibration, impact risk, and environmental exposure.
• Monitored the shipment throughout its journey, providing the client with updates and full visibility.
Arrival & Handover in the United States
• Coordinated with U.S. partners for safe unloading, handling, and final delivery to the receiving institution or site.
• Ensured the crate remained sealed and intact until handover.
• Provided the client with a full chain‑of‑custody record and photographic documentation.
YOUR FRAGILE DELIVERY SERVICES
Effortless collection services available throughout the UK for complete convenience.
Professional, museum‑grade packing using acid‑free and conservation‑safe materials to protect delicate artworks.
Personalised quote for the cost of packing and shipping.
Declared value cover available at any level, tailored to the individual value of your artwork.
International art‑shipping expertise ensuring your piece meets all customs and cultural‑goods regulations.
Flexible pickup and delivery options, including same‑day collection and delivery within the London area.