STANDARD 4: Transportation of Objects

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STANDARD 4: Transportation of Objects

Movement of collection objects must be strictly limited and the transport of any exhibit objects must be carefully planned and implemented

Transportation of a collection object is one of the most dangerous episodes in that object’s life; it is fraught with opportunities for damage. Transportation refers here to any movement of an object, whether this is between institutions, between buildings, or from one room to another of a museum. Transportation must be planned out beforehand and procedures must be in place to prevent damage. The team should work closely with the registrar (or contracting art handling firm) who is in charge of packing and can supply the recommended guidelines for transportation.

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• Guideline 4.1: Objects are transported only when necessary and always according to a pre-established plan.

How can transportation of collection objects be kept to a minimum?

• Guideline 4.2: The exhibit team follows safe packing and transportation procedures.

What basic safety precautions should be taken during object transportation?

Overview of safe object transportation procedures

What precautions must be taken for packing and transporting collections traveling outside the institution?

Further Resources: web links, bibliography

• Guideline 4.3: Objects are not transferred from the controlled museum environment to the studios or workshops of exhibit contractors.

What are the potential risks of moving objects to contractor facilities?

How can the exhibit team assist the contractor’s work while retaining the object at the museum site?