How to pack sculptures – The Packaging Doctor

How to Pack Sculptures – The Packaging Doctor

By Carl Board • Sunday 15th July 2018

At Kite Packaging, we understand how crucial it is to protect your goods during transit. Whether you're shipping small items or large, delicate pieces like sculptures, the right packaging can make all the difference. That’s why we’ve created this guide to help you ensure your valuable art pieces arrive safely and in perfect condition.

 

Dear Doctor,
I’m a UK-based art trader who regularly ships large steel sculptures that are about 4 meters tall. Right now, I use polypropylene strapping for packaging, but some of my customers have reported damage upon delivery. I want to know what I can do to prevent this from happening again. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Lee

 

Hi Lee,

Thank you for reaching out to the Packaging Doctor! We’re always happy to help with real-life packaging challenges. It sounds like you're on the right track by using strapping, but there’s definitely room for improvement when it comes to protecting such large and heavy items.

While polypropylene strapping is useful for securing items, it doesn’t offer much in terms of shock absorption or internal protection. For sculptures of this size, especially those made of metal, you need a more comprehensive approach to packaging. Let’s break it down step by step.

First, consider adding an inner layer of cushioning. Our range of foam products is perfect for this. Foam sheets can wrap around the sculpture to prevent direct contact with the outer packaging, while self-adhesive foam blocks can be placed at key points to absorb any shocks or vibrations during transport.

Next, use clear polythene sheeting as a protective barrier. This waterproof film not only keeps dust and dirt away but also adds an extra layer of defense against moisture and minor impacts. You can choose from different thicknesses depending on how much protection you need — light, medium, heavy, or even extra-heavy duty.

Finally, don’t overlook the importance of strong strapping. While polypropylene is cost-effective, steel strapping offers superior strength and durability, making it ideal for securing heavy items like your sculptures. Pair it with pallets and proper bracing to ensure everything stays in place during transit.

By combining these elements, you’ll significantly reduce the risk of damage and give your customers peace of mind. If you’d like, we can also recommend specific products tailored to your needs.

Best wishes,
The Packaging Doctor

Note: All the questions we receive are real ones from our customers or potential clients. If you have a packaging issue you'd like us to help with, feel free to reach out via Twitter @kitepackaging or email us directly.

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