What Makes Fine Art Handling Different from Regular Moving?

Orient Relocation employees carefully wrapping a Thangka painting to ensure its safe transport.

Moving is stressful enough. But when your cargo includes a delicate oil painting, a rare bronze statue, or a centuries-old scroll, you’re in a whole different league.

Fine art handling is not just about packing and shipping—it’s about preserving value, history, and emotion. In this blog, we explore what sets fine art handling apart from regular moving, why it matters, and how Orient International Relocation in Nepal delivers specialized care for every piece.

Why Regular Moving Isn’t Enough for Fine Art

When you're moving everyday items—furniture, books, clothes—standard packing and transport procedures typically suffice. But with fine art, even the smallest mistake can result in irreversible damage.

Here’s what makes fine art handling more advanced:

Aspect	Regular Moving	Fine Art Handling
Packing Materials	Basic boxes, bubble wrap	Custom crates, acid-free paper, moisture barrier materials
Team Expertise	General packers	Trained art handlers with conservation knowledge
Transport	Standard trucks	Climate-controlled, shock-absorbing vehicles
Documentation	Basic inventory list	Photographic records, condition reports, insurance documents
Storage	Warehouses with general conditions	Temperature and humidity-controlled storage

When You Need Fine Art Movers in Nepal

Whether you’re a seasoned collector, diplomat, NGO worker, or an expat who’s found a beautiful hand-carved statue in Bhaktapur or a Thangka painting in Patan, you need fine art handling if:

• The item is fragile, antique, or irreplaceable

• You’re shipping art internationally

• You’re moving during monsoon or dry season extremes

• You need short- or long-term secure storage

• You require documentation for customs or insurance

Specialized Services Offered by Orient for Fine Art Handling

At Orient International Relocation, we understand the difference between moving a chair—and moving culture. Here's what makes our fine art services uniquely equipped:

1. Expert Handling

Our team is trained in art logistics and preservation. From sculpture to canvases, we know how to lift, place, and transport with surgical care.

2. Custom Crating & Packing

We build tailored crates using high-grade wood and padding based on the object’s material, shape, and fragility. Materials are acid-free and breathable to prevent moisture damage.

3. Climate-Controlled Transport

Nepal’s weather is no friend to art. We use specialized trucks and containers to maintain stable temperatures and humidity levels, ensuring your art arrives in the same condition it left.

4. Art Insurance Options

Even with the highest standards, accidents can happen. We offer insurance tailored for artwork and antiques- covering damage, theft, and transit issues.

5. Fine Art Installation & Storage

Need help placing your art in a new space? Or keeping it safe while you're away? Our white-glove installation and climate-controlled storage options have you covered.

Case Study: Carved Wooden Door Panels from Bhaktapur to London

A British expat purchased two antique carved wooden panels from Bhaktapur and needed them shipped to London. We built humidity-sealed custom crates, used foam vibration isolators, and climate-controlled air freight. The panels arrived without a scratch and were professionally installed in her new home.

Real Risks of Using Regular Movers for Fine Art

Risk	Consequence
Improper packing	Tears, dents, scratches, or breakage
Exposure to moisture/humidity	Warping, mold, or color fading
No insurance	Loss of investment in case of damage
Mishandling at customs	Fines, confiscation, or unnecessary delays
Poor inventory control	Misplacement or theft

Everyday Expats Also Need Fine Art Handling

Think fine art services are just for museums or collectors? Think again.

Many expats living in Nepal—diplomats, development workers, or retirees—often find themselves wanting to bring home:

• Unique antique masks

• Traditional Mithila paintings

• Thangka scrolls with spiritual meaning

• Hand-carved metal statues of deities

Even if you're only moving one or two items, those pieces deserve the same protection as a gallery shipment.

Common Types of Art That Require Special Care

• Oil & acrylic paintings

• Photographs and mixed media

• Handwoven tapestries

• Bronze, stone, and wood sculptures

• Ancient manuscripts or scrolls

• Framed works with glass

How We Work with Customs & Documentation

Navigating Nepal customs regulations is crucial. We provide:

• Assistance with documentation and permits

• Valuation reports for insurance and customs

• Export clearance coordination with customs authorities

• Packing lists, invoices, and photographic evidence

Fine art is not replaceable. Whether it’s museum-worthy or simply close to your heart, moving it demands attention to detail that standard movers cannot offer.

With Orient International Relocation, you’re trusting Nepal’s most experienced fine art movers to ensure your art travels safely, securely, and without stress.

So next time you find that perfect Thangka, sculpture, or painting, don’t leave its future to chance—let the experts handle it.