How to Transport Large Sculptures Safely and Efficiently

It is easy enough to ship a small figurine: you box it up and wrap it. But shipping large sculpture is on a bigger scale. Outdoor sculpture can be several meters high and weigh tons but is nevertheless very fragile. It is therefore essential you comprehend the sculpture shipping process so that you can protect the piece, control costs, and ensure a hassle-free shipment from factory to destination.

Large sculptures are placed in the scenic area

Step One: Careful Assessment

The first step of large sculpture transportation is a professional assessment. Each sculpture is unique, so the height, weighing, and material are recorded individually. Fiberglass reacts differently when transported than does stainless steel or stone. Delicate extensions like wings or long limbs are braced with extra protection. This is what makes the difference whether or not the work can travel whole or if it has to break down.

Step Two: Customized Packaging

Following the assessment is protection. It is not possible for monumental sculptures to ever rely on ordinary cartons. Special wooden shipping cases are hence specifically designed within the sculpture's shape and size. Padding of a foamy or bubble wrap kind is incorporated within these sections where it can absorb the shock of vibration. Internal frames are at times designed within the cases where the sculpture is kept stationary. This is highly laborious but it reduces significantly possibilities of being scratched, cracked up or broken.

Step Three: Choosing the Right Transport Method

It depends on the distance and the cost of transportation.

Local journeys are usual when dealing with land cargo. Special lifting vehicles or flat bed trucks are utilized to lift up crates.

Sea freight is the option of shipping sculptures on overseas projects. Braces are placed on containers to secure sculptures when rising waves and sea routes are encountered.It is rarely used because it is extremely costly, but when it is essential it is the fastest.

Large standing sculpture

Step Four: Transit Handling

Even after route selection and packaging, handling is still a factor. Sculpture movers understand that handling is done carefully when using forklifts and cranes. Every pickup location—from when it goes onto a truck to when it is unloaded out of the port—is intricately coordinated. Faulty handling is one of sculpture shipping procedure's greatest risks, so it is imperative that you deal with a logistics expert.

Step Five: Delivery and Final Checks

Upon arrival at its final destination, work is far from over. Carefully the crate is opened and checked for any possible damage sustained in transit. Gradually protective coverings are stripped away lest they cause scarring. When transported in individual sections the sculpture may now be reassembled under supervision. Here a final check confirms that the work has come through unscathed and is now ready to go on display.

Why Become a Seasoned Partner

At Ruiheng, we understand that oversize sculpture transportation is not just about moving an object. Through our 10,000㎡ factory and decades of exportation of oversize sculptures, our staff is not only providing top-level production but complete-service assistance for packaging, shipping coordination, and transportation. Each project is carefully designed to ensure that the sculptures are well protected during transportation.

It requires skill and deliberation to safely move bulky sculptures: adequate assessment, protective covering, proper shipping procedure, careful handling, and experienced oversight. Adhering to a step-by-step sculpture shipping process can guarantee that the thickest or delicate piece of art is safely transported where it needs to go.

Large rabbit sculpture with stand

Ruiheng is one of China's leading sculpture and craft producers with years of experience in large sculpture transportation worldwide. If you're planning to purchase and ship a large sculpture and want peace of mind, contact us today - we'll be happy to help you, from creation to safe delivery, making your project easier.