How to Safely Transport Luxury Goods

How to Safely Transport Luxury Goods

Moving high-value goods demands more than a van and a few blankets. Whether you’re a collector, an interior designer, or a private buyer, these steps will help you protect your investment during transport.

Every item I've delivered has been unique, but the packing theory is very similar, and even odd shapes like a sculture can be transported as safely as any other item.

My soft shell system of packing implements layers of material;

1. Layer 1

   Big bubble, bubble wrap - The primary layer that absorbs shock from uneven road surfaces.
2. Layer 2 (optional)

   Cardboard Box - Use a high-quality, sturdy double-wall box, with at least 3-4 inches space for foam on all sides of the item - use enough foam, so as the item doesn't move around.
3. Layer 3

   Absorbant cloth - Thick layers of cloth protect from shock and any minor damage.
4. Layer 4

   Shrink Wrap - Industrial wrapping that shrinks from very low heat - not advisable for electronics.
5. Layer 5 (optional)

   A final cardboard layer, held in place with plastic strapping - this is optional and dependant on the item being transported - i.e. mirrors, glass etc.

Items need to be palletized, but the following should be considered;

1. Tail Lift

   Use a vehicle that includes a tail-lift - the goal is for minimal manual handling, so once the packing is complete and the item is palletized, don't attempt to move by hand.
2. Pallet Truck

   Use a hydrolic pallet truck that's portable, as you'll need to unload at the destination.
3. Thick Rubber Flooring

   Impossible to slip and adds a final layer of absorbant protection against uneven road surfaces.
4. Haulage Staps

   Use haulage straps to secure the item and pallet to the vehicle.
5. Padding

   Apply thick padding at the points where the haulage straps touch the packaging.

When packing any high value item, the key is to be methodical, the goal is to transport safely, and high quality packing is the first and most crucial part of this process.