When it comes to relocation, not everything fits neatly into boxes. Some items carry history, artistry, and irreplaceable emotional value, like sculptures, idols, antiques, or rare collectibles. At Relocate Xpress, our artifact packing service is built precisely for that, to move delicate and priceless pieces with the care they truly deserve.
For over a decade, we’ve helped homeowners, collectors, museums, and heritage institutions across India relocate their artifacts safely and seamlessly. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at everything we do to make that happen.
Understanding Artifacts: Why Special Handling Matters
Unlike regular household goods, artifacts require specialized techniques and materials. Whether it’s a century-old brass sculpture, a marble deity idol, or a delicate painting, each artifact reacts differently to temperature, vibration, and humidity.
Even a slight misstep, the wrong cushioning, rough handling, or improper stacking, can lead to cracks, scratches, or irreversible damage. That’s why our artifact relocation services begin long before packing starts. Every move starts with a deep understanding of the object itself, its structure, fragility, and story.
Our Process: Step-by-Step Artifact Packing and Moving
At Relocate Xpress, we’ve refined our process through experience, precision, and constant learning. Here’s how we handle every artifact move, from inspection to installation.
| Step | Process | Example |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Pre-Move Inspection | Our experts visit the site to study the artifact, dimensions, material, and weak points. | Recently, we surveyed a 200-year-old temple idol in Chennai before designing a dual-layer crate for it. |
| 2. Custom Crating Design | Based on size and fragility, we design custom wooden crates, often ISPM-15 certified, to fit the artifact snugly. | A handcrafted wooden panel was packed in a cushioned crate with foam corner guards to prevent compression. |
| 3. Multi-Layer Protective Wrapping | We use acid-free tissue paper, bubble wrap, foam sheets, and corrugated layers to protect every surface. | For a marble Ganesh idol, we used three layers of foam with air gaps to reduce vibration impact. |
| 4. Shock-Resistant Crating | The artifact is immobilized inside the crate to eliminate movement during transit. | Sculptures are braced using soft straps and cushioning supports at pressure points. |
| 5. Secure Transportation | Our trucks are equipped with padded interiors, tie-down systems, and moisture control materials. | For long-distance moves, we monitor routes and avoid rough terrains. |
| 6. Safe Unpacking & Placement | At the destination, our team carefully unpacks, reassembles, and places the artifact in its designated location. | We used hydraulic lifts to safely position a 150 kg bronze statue at a heritage home in Coimbatore. |
Every step is designed to ensure one goal, zero damage and complete peace of mind.
Materials and Techniques We Use
What sets our artifact packing service apart is our attention to materials and detail. Each element, from the wrapping paper to the crate’s inner lining, plays a role in protection.
- Wooden Crates (Custom-Sized): Hand-built and reinforced to handle weight and vibration.
- Acid-Free Wrapping: Prevents discoloration or chemical reactions on sensitive surfaces.
- Foam-in-Place Systems: Molded foam that hugs irregularly shaped artifacts.
- Corrugated Sheets and Thermocol: Add cushioning and insulation.
- Moisture Barriers: Desiccants and liners to prevent humidity damage.
- Fragile & Orientation Labels: “This Side Up,” “Do Not Stack,” and other visual instructions ensure correct handling.
These techniques allow us to handle everything from small bronze idols to large marble statues and antique furniture with the same precision and care.
Top 3 Most Expensive Artifacts We’ve Packed
Not everything fits in a box some things carry centuries. Over the years, our team at Relocate Xpress has had the honour of handling some of India’s most valuable heritage pieces. These national treasures were relocated with precision and care for the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, among other esteemed institutions.
Each project tested our expertise in artifact packing services, pushing us to innovate, customize, and deliver perfection without compromise.
Lord Murugan Tanjore-Style Ivory Sculpture
Packing Protocol:
Acrylic display lock-box, anti-vibration padding, and a triple-insulated hard case equipped with humidity control technology to prevent micro-cracks or material expansion during transit.
Challenge: Ivory’s sensitivity to temperature and movement demanded precision climate control.
Result: Successful museum-grade transport with zero surface stress or discoloration.
Vishnu Ananta Shayana Wall Relief (Single Wood Panel)
Packing Protocol:
Custom wooden frame, foam lattice cushioning, vertical crate suspension, and panel-edge bracing to prevent flexing and vibration damage.
Challenge: Transporting a single, hand-carved teak panel over 9 feet wide without warping or splitting.
Result: The artifact reached safely with every curve and carving perfectly preserved.
Panchamukhi Hanuman Sculpture in Polished Rosewood
Packing Protocol:
Reinforced pedestal locking frame, anti-scratch polish wraps, and a vibration-controlled, floor-mounted container designed for heavy artifact relocation.
Challenge: Balancing weight distribution while protecting the detailed carving.
Result: Secure placement at destination temple premises with flawless finish retention.
Why Clients Trust Relocate Xpress
When customers choose us for antique packing and moving, they’re not just hiring a transporter, they’re trusting a team that treats every artifact as its own responsibility. Here’s why we’re preferred by families, collectors, and organizations alike:
Trained Professionals: Our handlers are trained to work with precision, patience, and respect for heritage.
Specialized Expertise: Years of experience handling delicate, valuable, and antique objects.
Custom Solutions: Every artifact gets a tailored packing strategy.
End-to-End Service: From inspection to final placement, we handle every stage.
Insurance Coverage: Optional protection plans for high-value items.
Tips for Moving Artifacts Safely
If you’re planning to move an artifact soon, here are some expert tips from our experience:
- Document Everything: Photograph the artifact before packing for insurance and condition tracking.
- Avoid DIY Packing: Fragile materials need professional-grade wrapping and crating.
- Use Clear Labels: Always mark crates as “Fragile” and indicate the correct orientation.
- Insure Valuable Items: Especially important for antiques and collectibles.
- Plan in Advance: Custom crating takes time, book your artifact packing service early.
These small steps can make a big difference in keeping your priceless possessions safe.
The Relocate Xpress Promise
Every artifact carries a legacy, and we take that responsibility seriously. Whether it’s a family heirloom, a corporate art piece, or a centuries-old temple sculpture, our goal is to ensure it arrives exactly as it left, pristine, protected, and preserved.
At Relocate Xpress, we don’t just move artifacts, we move memories, culture, and craftsmanship with unmatched care.
Ready to Relocate Your Artifacts Safely?
Let our experts handle your next delicate move with precision and professionalism.
Book Your Artifact Packing Consultation
or call us at +91 73532 26655 to discuss your requirements today.
