Fine Art Transport Services in the UK & Ireland:
​How to get Fine Art from A to B without using the post or moving it yourself

​What you need to know; what your courier needs to know
& which couriers move artwork in the UK & Ireland

CHECKLISTS
what you need to know BEFORE placing an order
what should happen as/when you place an order
​LISTINGS
of ​UK & Ireland Fine Art Transport:
​Movers, Carriers & Fine Art Shippers
THREE CHECKLISTS

#1  What the courier needs to know

AND
​
#2  What YOU need to know before placing an order

​PLUS

​#3 . ESSENTIAL: Legal Requirements for ALL businesses trading at a distance 
​(by phone or internet i.e. not face to face - which is exactly what you do when you place an order with a courier!) This is the information YOU should expect to see or be provided with by ANY courier or transport services trading online / at a distance.​
LISTINGS

Listing of Art Movers and Couriers in the UK
  • suggested as suitable by major art organisations
  • typically used by artists to get artwork to galleries / exhibitions
  • national and regional
​
Listing of specialised Fine Art Shipping Services (major and minor)
  • Including those with a Royal Warrant / members of ARTIM
  • Used by larger organisations and/or collectors
  • to move valuable fine art and/or
  • to move art internationally

Important Notice

This page is NOT a transport service.
It does ​NOT provide quotations for the transport of art.
It accepts NO LIABILITY re services listed below.

If you want a service and need a quote YOU need to contact an art mover, courier or shipper direct

However I'm always happy to receive recommendations from verified CUSTOMERS of services moving art. (See the form at the end to offer recommendations).
All Listings of courier services are offered without liability. I have not used them and the summarised information is derived from their websites or via correspondence.

You should ALWAYS satisfy yourself whether a supplier provides the service you require
based on your needs, your query and the response it gets

​MORE ADVICE & HELP 
for those transporting art

There are other pages about: PLUS the current most popular page on this website!
Page last updated: 1 October 2024

What the courier needs to know
​

Before we get to which art mover or courier to choose from the list below you FIRST need to have a think about the information they need to provide a quote to you.
On a practical note - art couriers will NOT accept work where is the paint is NOT dry.  

Nor will exhibitions!
The courier needs to know:
  • Postcode or Place for Collection
  • Postcode/Gallery for Delivery,
  • Date the artwork is available for collection,
  • Date (and time if applicable) when artwork needs to be delivered)
  • Number of Art Works,
  • Size of Art Works (inclusive of frame and any packing).
  • Weight (sometimes - particularly relevant if heavy)
  • Whether artwork will be packed
  • Whether artwork needs to be unpacked and packaging stored for the return journey
  • Who is paying the bill 

What YOU need to know

What you need to know concerns what you need to know:
  • to get a quote - in WRITING - of the service offered and the proposed cost
  • to place an order
  • to get a written invoice/bill for services rendered BEFORE you pay anything
  • to get insurance for carriage
  • to get an item through Customs
  • what to do and how to contact them if anything goes wrong

Artwork for Juried Exhibitions

Typically artwork packages will NOT be accepted by the recipient (ie exhibition organiser) IF
  • EITHER the customs and courier documentation indicates duty and taxes will be paid by the exhibition organiser. 
  • AND/OR the artwork has to be unpacked by the exhibition organisers
Similarly many exhibition organisers will NOT release artwork unless couriers know that transport is paid by the artist.
We cannot accept works that are wrapped and delivered by a commercial courier, such as DHL/UPS
Royal Academy of Arts

Artwork couriered to buyers

Artists should recharge shipping and insurance costs to their buyers as part of the invoice. That's because shipping and insurance costs vary hugely depending on where a buyer lives. That means you need to be explicit about this up front - and need to articulate the cost in the invoice.

​If they want to arrange the shipping and pay their courier direct let them do this.
YOU need to know and/or get
  • whether they carry artwork as a professional service
  • whether they provide insurance for the art being carried
  • whether all the personnel handling the art have been trained and to what standard
  • how to get in contact with the service - before, during and after the transportation
  • what their legal geographical address is (e.g. business office)  - in case you need to serve any legal documents!
  • how to obtain a written quote (and how long it remains current)
  • whether the quote is one-way or two-way
  • whether they will pack and unpack (and keep the packing and do then pack and unpack for the reverse journey)
  • what terms and conditions are re. cancellation
  • what their VAT number is (and see it on an invoice for services rendered)
  • what the Customs Charges are for any VAT and duty on import to another country which MUST be paid by you - or recharged to you - if the art is to be released by Customs (i.e. on the taxable value of the art - as notified by you to the shipper/courier)
  • what methods they use to accept payment of their invoice
  • whether you can pay online
  • whether you can pay cash (not recommended as it provides no written record)
  • when you are making a payment!

Fine Art Transport - Art Movers , Couriers and Shippers in the UK
​

What's fascinating about small firms providing art courier services for exhibitions in the UK is:
  • how few have websites.
  • how few comply with the law and regulations relating to trading online! (see Legal requirements below)
IMPORTANT VAT NOTE:

A VAT number is usually indicative of a big and/or respectable business . VAT registration is MANDATORY for all businesses with a turnover based on gross sales (i.e. turnover NOT profit) of more than:
  • £85,000 for all businesses in the UK
  • £70,000 for all businesses involved in DIRECT SELLING in the UK (i.e. where somebody 'represents'  or is an agent for another larger organisation to sell direct to individuals)
Do NOT pay VAT unless you are provided with a registered VAT number on an invoice and you are sure it is valid.
EVERY BUSINESS has to observe the legal requirements for being in business in the UK - see below.

However, in this "white van man" world, it appears to be very difficult to obtain information about:
  • what services are provided 
  • what they do/don't do
  • what their business address is
  • who owns the business
  • what geographical areas they are prepared to service.
  • what the typical prices are for transporting artwork
  • whether they provide insurance (i.e. assume "not" unless they say they do

Legal Requirements for ALL businesses trading at a distance
(i.e. not face to face)

There are MANDATORY requirements in the UK for all those who trade outside a face to face situation.
You must provide certain information if you’re selling goods or services through digital TV, by mail order or by phone or text message. This is called distance selling.
Some of the people who do business as art movers would do well to read the government regulations about distance trading via
  • telephone and
  • the internet!
  • and NOTE THE PENALTIES (see quote from Government website above)

IMO the first firm to have a website and comprehensive compliance with all regulations relating to distance trading via telephone or internet stands to gain an awful lot of business!

Interestingly - all the art couriers/movers who have recently been added to the list maintained by the RA seem to have a website. This seems to me to speak volumes for what customer expectation is.
If you don’t follow the rules you could be made to provide the goods or services as agreed, pay compensation or be given an unlimited fine or a prison sentence.
Gov.UK Online and distance selling
Before an order is placed (DISTANCE SELLING)

​You must provide:
​
  • your business name, contact details and address
  • a description of your goods or services
  • the price, including all taxes
  • how a customer can pay
  • delivery arrangements, costs and how long goods will take to arrive
  • the minimum length of their contract and billing period
  • conditions for ending contracts
  • how they can cancel and when they lose the right to cancel
  • if they will still need to pay reasonable costs for using a service after they cancel
  • a standard cancellation form, if they can cancel
  • conditions for money given as a deposit or financial guarantees
  • what digital content does (for example, the language it’s in or how to update software)
  • the cost of using phone lines or other communication to complete the contract where it will cost more than the basic rate
This information must be easy to understand and on paper, in an email or another format the customer can save for future reference.
​
Gov.UK Online and distance selling
Before an order is placed (ONLINE SELLING)

You must:

make it clear to customers they have to pay when they place an order (for example, a ‘pay now’ button)

display clearly how customers can pay and include delivery options and costs

list the steps involved in a customer placing an order
take reasonable steps to let customers correct errors in their order

let customers know what languages are available

make sure customers can store and reproduce your terms and conditions, for example these can be downloaded and printed off

give your email address

give your VAT number (if your business is registered for VAT)

give the cost of using phone lines or other communication to complete the contract where it will cost more than the basic rate

give a description of your goods, services or digital content - include as much information as you can
give the total price or how this will be calculated
give the total delivery cost or how this will be calculated

tell them the minimum length of their contract
give any conditions for ending rolling contracts or contracts with no clear end date
​
​Gov.UK Online and distance selling - Online selling
After an order is placed

You must:
​
• confirm the contract as soon as possible and no later than when goods are delivered, a service starts or digital content is downloaded (for example, an email must be sent when content is downloaded even if it doesn’t arrive at the same time)

• provide a copy of the contract on paper, by email or another format the customer can save for future reference

• deliver the goods within 30 days, unless you’ve agreed otherwise with the customer

Gov.UK Online and distance selling - Online selling
A Summary by Which Magazine of what YOU SHOULD EXPECT in terms of information from any person or business you deal with at a distance - whether by telephone or online.
At a distance or face-to-face off-premises  The following key information has to be given:

  • a description of the goods or service, including how long any commitment will last on the part of the consumer 
  • the total price of the goods or service, or the manner in which the price will be calculated if this can’t be determined
  • cost of delivery and details of who pays for the cost of returning items if you have a right to cancel and change your mind
  • details of any right to cancel - the trader also needs to provide, or make available, a standard cancellation form to make cancelling easy (although you aren’t under any obligation to use it)
  • information about the seller, including their geographical address and phone number
  • information on the compatibility of digital content with hardware and other software is also part of the information traders are obliged to provide  
  • 'Which' Magazine Summary of The Consumer Contracts (Information, Cancellation and Additional Charges) Regulations 2013

Fine Art Transport: Art Movers and Carriers based in the UK & Ireland

These are Art Movers suggested by
the organisers of major open exhibitions and art competitions in the UK. 
The list will be developed over time based on recommendations 
(See form at the bottom if you can recommend a carrier)​

All art movers and couriers are being assessed over time against Those which are in full compliance will be highlighted.

The information requirements below are BASIC i.e.
  • Name of Principal contact:
  • Website URL:
  • Description of services offered:
  • Typical Prices quoted:
  • ​Insurance:
  • Address:
  • Office:
  • Mobile:
  • Fax:
  • Email:
BUT not every service listed provides all the details.
REFERENCE:
The only one I've used is Art Moves of Chelsea - which handled my pick-up of artwork fine but was difficult to find and park

Names of national art movers/ carriers on this site
​

Legend: ONLY those with UK after their name cover ALL the UK. Otherwise consult the entry for the geographical area they cover

FIND OUT MORE BELOW ABOUT (in alphabetical order):
Covers all the UK
  • 3 Lanes Transport Ltd UK​
  • Aardvark Art Services Ltd UK​
  • Mid Wales Freight Services UK​
  • Picture Post UK (pick up points only)

Covers Ireland
  • Aardvark Art Services Ltd
  • ​Irish Art Services
  • Maurice Ward Art Handling
​​A - M
  • Artists with Transit Van
  • Art Moves of Chelsea
  • Artworks (Abergavenny)
  • Chris Bennett Antique and Fine Art Carrier
  • Depart Art Logistics
  • EBISS
  • Jayhawk Fine Art Transportation
  • JGM Shipping
  • Maidmans Moving and Storage Limited
​​N - Z
  • Norman Finch Delivery Service 
  • Pack and Send (Fine Art Shipping)
  • South Hams Express Limited

Names of Global Fine Art Transport Services
​

UK Members of ARTIM - leading fine art logistics companies around the world
  • Constantine
  • Momart
Other Shippers
  • Adam Crease Shipping
  • AirSea Packing
  • Alban Shipping
  • Art Move
  • Crown Fine Art
    EBISS
  • HMC Packing
  • move-art.com
  • ​The British Shop

NATIONAL ART MOVERS/ CARRIERS
suggested by Royal Academy of Arts & The Mall Galleries
​

These are the art movers suggested (but not endorsed) by
the Royal Academy of Arts (Summer Exhibition) and the Mall Galleries

​These are all longstanding couriers that regularly move artwork to exhibitions in the UK all over the UK
​Note that most are sole traders and NOT companies.
It's unclear whether every last one of them is fully compliant
with all legal requirements for distance selling and trading online in the UK.
Hence this is a listing ONLY and does NOT conform to a recommendation or endorsement.
​
You can see details of the suggested movers by two reputable venues for major art exhibitions (click the links) in:
  1. Royal Academy of Arts - Summer Exhibition Suggested Transport Agents 2020 (PDF)
  2. Mall Galleries - Suggested Art Couriers 
Numbers after their name indicate which couriers appear on which list - and if they specialise in any particular area. (Note the RA assigns regions to their suggested couriers)
The agencies listed in this document are not connected to the Royal Academy and the Royal Academy accepts no responsibility for any loss or damage caused by such agencies.
RA Suggested Transport Agents 2018

On BOTH LISTS!
​

Art Moves of Chelsea
1: Bristol;
2 Surrey, Sussex & Kent

Established and well used art courier - but
  • NOT internet literate: no website or Facebook Page 
  • NOT a company
Everything is done by phone or email. Can also store artwork for pickup on a date more convenient for the artist.
Not self-evident online that they comply with all legal requirements for distance selling by phone or email.
I have used them for many years and they are great. I’ve never had a painting returned damaged and they are always available to help.
Sophie Ploeg
Mid Wales Freight Services (1 - UK wide; 2)

Their Pitch: "Fragile delivery services throughout Europe since 1996. Specialist art mover based in Wales UK delivering art all over Europe. Careful, Friendly and Efficient - Motto ... On time Intact" (but this is the Instagram version. The website says something else!)
STILL NON-COMPLIANT with ALL legal requirements for businesses trading online. Note: According to Companies House this is NOT registered as a company with its 'popular name' or the name in the footnote of the website
Name of Principal contact: Nick McNally
Website: http://www.midwalesfreightservices.co.uk/ (but badly in need of a website overhaul!)
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/midwalesfreight/ - a bit more indicative of what they do
Description of services offered: NONE 
It's supposedly a general freight business (pic of a container ship!) - but on Instagram they sell themselves as an art courier have been used to transport fine art and museum items in the past. I suggest you make a point of checking their insurance and knowledge / experience of moving your type of art.
Typical Prices quoted: NONE
​Insurance: "fully insured" - unclear whether this is the company or the art being carried
​Address: Pendre, Ysbyty Ystwyth, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, SY25 6DA (Note this address is no longer on the website - as required by law - however I'm leaving it up here for info.)
Office: 01974 282 500
Mobile: 07866 731 400
Email: [email protected]
Picture Post
(1: Scotland, North & Birmingham; 2: collection points around UK)

Their Pitch: Picture Post Art exists to ease the process of entering the principal events by 
solving problems as they arise, including -
  • the transfer of artwork between events
  • re-labelling and administrative paperwork
  • storing free-of-charge to suit artist availability
Name of Organisation: International Art Services Ltd Trading As "Picture Post Art"
Name of Principal contact: NONE
​Website: http://picture-post.webnode.com
​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PicturePostArt/ 
Description of services offered: Artwork is received wrapped or unwrapped together with entry forms and fees (if applicable), and in the event of a return is always wrapped. 
Established courier based in Doncaster. Artwork is received and returned to UK ‘collection points’ in the UK:
  • Scotland: Berwick, Edinburgh, Perth, Glasgow
  • North East: Doncaster, Wetherby, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Pontefract,
  • North West: Penrith, Kendal, Lancaster, Preston, Warrington, Manchester
  • Midlands: Birmingham, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Stafford
  • South of England
  • and any point en route, as well as to and from London
Typical Prices quoted: NONE - but you can get a quote
​Insurance: NONE​ - but see quote; it appears none is provided and they accept no liability. Note that other couriers do provide insurance
​Address: Storrs Hill, Dame Lane, Misson. Doncaster DN10 6E
Read more: http://picture-post.webnode.com/
Office: 01302 711011 (Monday - Friday 8am-6pm)
Mobile: 07833 450 788
Email: [email protected]
Additional Info:
  • Note: According to Companies House Picture Post is NOT registered as a company
  • INTERNATIONAL CUSTOMERS: To keep costs low you can ask that packaging be stored for re-use in the event of a return service being required.
​Picture Post will take great care of works in their charge, but due to the nature of artwork, have to adopt a policy of not accepting liability for loss or damage to works of art, howsoever caused. Artists are entirely responsible for insuring their artwork. 
Art Society website - advice to exhibiting artists
South Hams Express Limited
Husband and wife business that operates between the South West of England and London. Companies House documentation appears up to date
Name of Principal Contact: Dave Allen (Director/Transport Manager - per Companies House)
Website: NONE
Seems to be part of USHIP - which acts as a broker between shipper and carrier https://www.uship.com/uk/profile/southhamsexpress/
​Description of services offered: Independent Transporter (with pickup truck/van) - per USHIP
​Typical Prices quoted: NONE
Accounts lodged with Companies House indicate UNDER THRESHOLD FOR VAT
Insurance (via USHIP): Full Courier Insurance. £25k Goods in Transit. £2m Public Liability
​Address:  Registered office address (per Companies House)
72 Upper Manor Road, Paignton, United Kingdom, TQ3 2TJ
Telephone: direct line 01803 863205
Mobile: 07502041139 
Email: [email protected]
  • "we provide a bespoke delivery service for antiques, art work, and small up market retailers. We run a weekly service to London and the Home Counties and every three weeks to the Midlands and North. Fully insured and offering a blanket wrap service, we can also offer temporary storage of items in transit."

Below are couriers suggested by Mall Galleries ONLY
​

Artists with Transit Van
Their pitch: Secure dedicated drive services nationwide for all fine art, sculpture, installation, antique & fragile items

Name of Principal contact: NONE
Website: https://www.artistswithtransitvan.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArtistswithTransitVan/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/WithTransitVan
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artistswithtransitvan/​
Description of services offered: Artists with Transit Van are a London based fine art courier specialising in the transportation of fine art, sculpture & antiques offering secure dedicated drive services nationwide.
Typical Prices quoted: Flat rate fees within Central London,
Student rates available, Free quotations on request        
Insurance: Fully insured up to £20,000 cover
Address: 54-58 Tanner Street, London SE1 3PH
Office: 020 7438 2058
Mobile: 
Email: [email protected] 
Studio hours: Mon-Fri 10am-4pm (out delivering 24/7!)
Additional Info: Good quality info. re what fits in and how artists need to pack their artwork
They get two pics below - because of the names of their Transit Vans!
JD Art Transport
Their pitch: friendly and reliable service providing van transportation for all fine art, sculpture and installation pieces throughout the UK to and from the East Midlands. Established early 2012 and used by artists, students, galleries and universities.

Name of Principal contact: NONE
Website: https://jdarttransport.co.uk/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jdarttransport/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TransportJd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jd_art_transport/
Van: Nissan e-NV200 fully electric van - producing Zero emissions (no congestion charges)
Description of services offered: Professional fine art transport, East Midlands based operating nation wide. Packing service can also be provided for a quote. 
Typical Prices quoted:   NONE
Insurance: NONE
Address: NO ADDRESS 
Office: NO NUMBER
Mobile: +447825339787
Email:  [email protected] 
Studio hours: NOT STATED
Additional Info: LOTS about the van! Rudimentary advice re how art should be packed. 

NOT compliant with legal regulations relating to distance selling via online (email) or telephone.


​BELOW are couriers on the Royal Academy 2020 List ONLY

Jayhawk Fine Art Transportation (1 UK wide & International)
Founded in 1994 Jayhawk has been providing efficient and secure transport of Art. 

Name of Principal contact: see Contacts Page
Website: http://www.jayhawkfineart.com 
and http://www.jayhawkfineart.com/uk-transportation/
Description of services offered: 
  • reliable/secure art transportation for auction houses, art galleries, museums, collectors
  • Use small Luton van to a 100m3 truck and trailer
  • White glove service from two technicians per vehicle
  • packing and crating service
  • transportation service (road/air/ship) can handle items up to 2.90m and 7.41m in length
Typical Prices quoted: Quotes provided in advance; brochure available for download
​Insurance: NONE
​Address:  Offices in London  and Northampton (no precise address)
Office: 020 7708 3366
Email: Additional Info: member of LAPADA for more than 15 years
​3 Lanes Transport Ltd (1 - South West)
A family run business, specialising in the transportation of Fine Art throughout the UK. Covers South West for the RA Summer Exhibition

Website: http://www.3lanes.com/arttransportation.php
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Higher-Bussow-Farm-Studios-142829605890202/
Description of services offered: They transport art throughout the UK. from individual works of art on our scheduled runs - to a dedicated delivery of a whole exhibition or art fair.
(They also provide artist studios - indicating more likely than most to understand artist requirements)
Typical Prices quoted: NONE
Insurance: They fully insure all goods carried up to the value of £5,000 and provide quotes for items valued at more than this
​Address: Higher Bussow Farm, Towednack, St. Ives, Cornwall, TR26 3BB 
Office: 01736 799298 
Mobile: 07970 948324
Email: [email protected]
Maidmans Moving and Storage Limited (1 - South)
Covers the South of England for the RA Summer Exhibition.
​This a company specialising in house removals. They are NOT packers or movers with specialist experience in the movement of art.
Not self-evident that they comply with legal requirements for distance selling eg no description re art moves
UNCLEAR WHY THEY ARE LISTED - other than that they have VERY BIG vans to handle the RA Summer Exhibition Collections.

Name of Principal contact: 
Website: http://maidmans.com​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Maidmans-Moving-Storage-Ltd-613949752084920/ 
Description of services offered: NONE
Typical Prices quoted: NONE
​​Insurance: NONE
​Address: Unit 1, 2 Willis Way, Fleets Lane Industrial
Estate, Poole, Dorset, BH15 3SS
Office: 01202 681 397
Email:  [email protected]
Additional Info: Impressive list of clients and awards
Norman Finch Delivery Service (1 East Anglia)
Covers Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex for the RA Summer Exhibition
Unclear whether they have any specialist experience with movement of art.
This courier has no website and it's difficult to see/check how they are compliant with legal regulations relating to distance selling via online (email) or telephone.

Name of Principal contact: NONE
Website: NO WEBSITE
Description of services offered: NONE
Typical Prices quoted: NONE
​​​Insurance: NONE
​Address: The Old Station, Little Bealings, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP13 6LT 
Office: 01473 622 690
Email: [email protected]
IRELAND

Irish Art Services
Seems likely that the RA have not checked them recently
Claims to be the largest mover of art in Ireland, delivering nationwide daily and to the UK weekly. Irish Art Services (IAS) is the result of the merger of Tony Magennis’ award winning Magtrans and Joe Murphy’s much trusted Irish Art Courier. They have 6 climate controlled, art spec, alarmed and tracked vans plus climate- controlled stores in both Munster and in Dublin
  • BUT last entry on their Facebook Page and website is unfinished
  • NON-COMPLIANT with regulations e.g. no address
Name of Principal contact: NONE
Website: https://www.irishartservices.com/
Facebook: last entry 2016
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/irishartservices/ 
Description of services offered: "the largest mover of art in Ireland, delivering nationwide daily and to the UK weekly" on a website which is two years out of date
Typical Prices quoted: NONE
​Insurance: NONE 
Address: NONE
Office: 00 353 8681 70151
Mobile: NONE
​Email: [email protected] 
Accreditations: Irish Art Courier is accredited by
  • West Dean College as a Professional Conservator in Art & Object Handling.
  • the Chartered Institute of Logistics & Transport in Ireland (but cannot verify this via their website)

Other experienced art and antique
​couriers / international shippers / transporters

Large international companies
​

Pack & Send (Fine Art Shipping)
Website: https://www.packsend.co.uk/specialist-shipping/art-shipping/
Name of Principal contact: none
Description of services offered: This is large firm specialising in packing and sending fragile, large, awkward and valuable items all over the world. ​Includes specialist fine art packing/shipping service. It ships to over 220 countries. Offer professional packing services for items that require extra care in delivery. An international courier delivery service and logistics provider, operating from a growing network of conveniently located shops on the high street. Founded in 1993 in Parramatta, Australia. 
Typical prices quoted: None
Insurance: read General Terms of Trade plus Art and Antiques Loss and Damaga Protection
Address: various service locations around the UK and Ireland
Registered Office: Pack&Send, 91-93 Kings Road, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 3DD, GB
Telephone: 0345 873 9990
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/packsenduk/
Twitter: @PackSendUK
​​Name of Principal Contact: NONE
​
Commentary: recommended by members of Art Fair Buddies
​
Maurice Ward Art Handling (trading name)
Maurice Ward & Company Ltd. 
Company number 04489570
Fine Art Logistics for Private & Corporate Collectors, Museums, Galleries and Heritage Organisations
(Baed in Ireland)
Website: mauriceward-arthandling.com
Facebook: MauriceWardArtHandling/
Instagram: mauricewardarthandling/
Twitter: mwarthandling
Name of Principal contact: none
Description of services offered INCLUDE: 
  • Transport & Logistics - transport artworks nationally and globally by road, air or sea
  • Packing & Crating - expert teams; crates are made to UK Museum Standards and conform to ISPM-15 regulations.
  • Art Storage - High Security purpose built art storage facilities.
Typical prices quoted: quotations provided
Insurance: Nail to Nail insurance is available on request for all shipments.
Address (Dublin): Maurice Ward & Co. Limited, Unit J 10, Swords Business Park, Swords, Co. Dublin, K67 W973, Ireland 
(also have offices in Shannon and Hungary)
Registered Office: Oriel House, Unit F, Brooklands Close, Sunbury-On-Thames, Middlesex, TW16 7DX
Telephone: (+353) 1 840 9099
email: [email protected]

Accreditations In Ireland
Ireland
  • International Convention of Exhibition and Fine Art Transporters (ICEFAT) www.icefat.org
  • Certified Haulier (Irish Aviation Authority) www.iaa.ie
  • International Air Transport Association (IATA) www.iata.org
  • Authorised Economic Operator (AEO)
  • Irish International Freight Association (IIFA) www.iifa.ie
  • National & International Haulage Licence (Dept. of Transport)
  • Haz Cargo Trained Drivers
  • Current Tax Clearance Certificate
  • ISO 9001:2015
Office EBISS
(Expo Brokers and International Shipping Specialists) 
Name of Principal contact:   Wayne Forster (MD & Owner)
Website:  https://www.ebiss.co.uk/    
( Art handling page: https://www.ebiss.co.uk/fineart )
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EBISSUK/
Twitter:  https://twitter.com/EBISS_UK
Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ebissuk/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ebiss-uk-ltd
Description of services offered: (brief)  
Supports individual artists and galleries in normal day to day art shipping business. Also offers
  • logistics, packing and advance warehouse support for art fairs and art shows worldwide.   
  • bespoke liveried van delivery services throughout Europe
  • International shipping: custom built wooden shipping crates or alternative solutions that best fit the work to be transported, arranging every aspect of the shipping and delivery, assisting with all your customs paperwork as required. 
  • EBISS has offices just south of London and near Chicago in the US and can offer shipping solutions for artworks to and from, anywhere in the world.
Typical Prices quoted:   depends on the job.
Insurance:  Yes, this can be included in the quote
Office Address:  EBISS UK Ltd, Unit 55 Bolney Grange Business Park, Stairbridge Lane, Haywards Heath West Sussex, RH15 5PB
Office:  0203 780 0666
Mobile: 0203 780 0666 (out of hours this number diverts to the Ops team on mobile)
Email: [email protected]
Studio hours:  office hours 8.30 – 5pm, but available 24/7 if needed
Additional Info:  
Company Address: Prospect House, 78 High Street, Hurstpierpoint, West Sussex, BN6 9RQ
Company number: 9013406
EBISS have been
  • the Official Packing & Shipping Partner for the London Art Fair for the past 5 years,
  • the Official Shipping Partner for Collect by the Crafts Council UK for the past 3 years,
  • International Shipping Partner for SOFA EXPO in Chicago and
  • from 2020 the Official Shipping & Packing Partner for The Other Art Fair, based in London. 

Small private limited companies and/or sole traders
​

Aardvark Art Services Ltd - Fine Art Transport Services 
Private limited company: #03488384 - Established in 1988. Incorporated on 5 January 1998 as Licensed Carriers
Caution: 2019 Balance Sheet indicates making a loss
​
Website: http://www.aardvarkartservices.com/​
Facebook: ​https://www.facebook.com/aardvarkartservices/
​Description of services offered: Staff fully trained in the handling & transport of fine art. Custom Built Vehicles with Satellite Tracking and Communications. Storage and Packing Facilities for Fine Art and Antiques; transport fine art across UK and Eire for over 20 years
Road Haulage Association: membership number 22147
​Typical Prices quoted: 
Insurance: Goods in Transit cover, subject to the Road Haulage Association terms and conditions 1998 - but strongly recommend you seek independent insurance advice for transportation of your art
​Address: Birks Farm, Ballam Road, Lytham, Lancs, FY8 4NL
​Registered office: 17 Moor Park Avenue, Preston, PR1 6AS
Telephone: 01253 794673
Fax: 01253 730580
Mobile:
​Name of Principal Contact: NONE
Email: [email protected] ​
Artworks
Private limited company #08331699:
​Founded: in 1985 | Incorporated on 14 December 2012 providing "Support activities to performing arts"
​Description of services offered: ​A team of museum standard technical staff who are experienced in all aspects of art handling, installation, packing and transportation. They handle, pack and install works of art in museums, galleries, public buildings and private houses.
Name of Principal contact: NONE
Website: https://www.arthandling.co.uk/
Social Media - NONE
Van: dedicated fleet of medium sized, air suspension, climate controlled vehicles purpose built for art transportation.
Description of services offered: specialists in
  • the packaging of paintings, sculptures and objects to the highest specifications for national and international transport and for long term storage.
  • providing cost effective, high quality art transport 
  • transporting artwork to government indemnity specifications
  • can undertake any type of picture or object installation for museums, galleries, collectors, owners and artists
Insurance: ?
Registered Office Address: Art Works Exhibition Services Ltd, Garden Cottage, Coldbrook, Abergavenny, Wales NP7 9ST
Office: NONE
Mobile:  NONE
Email:  [email protected]
Hours: ?
Additional Info:  EXTRA pages worth highlighting about:
Depart Art Logistics
Sole Trader

Their pitch: a modern art logistics courier company based in the historic market town of Marlborough - with a modern approach
Name of Principal contact: Olly Bendall  (photo on site)
Website: https://www.departlogistics.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/departltd/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/departltd/
Van: Citroen Relay - Vehicle can cater for artworks up to a maximum of 1.93m(h) x 3.12m(l) x 1.87(w) in size.
Description of services offered: Services include 
  • Crating and Packaging of items for transportation, storage or shipping. 
  • Transportation throughout the UK - operate mainly in the South of the UK
  • Installation of Artwork. 
  • London Saver Service (weekly on Wednesdays and Fridays): shuttle type service couriering artwork around London and within the M25 at reduced rates, 
Typical Prices quoted: 
  • no indicative rates re transport.
  • installation prices quoted per one or two man per hour
Insurance: DAL is insured up to £50,000 goods in transit and £2 Million in public liability.
Address: 23 Garside Way, Marlborough, SN8 4YR
Office: NO NUMBER
Mobile:   +44 7810 265 634
Email:  [email protected]
Studio hours: Monday to Friday (8am - 8pm)
Additional Info:  
Chris Bennett Antique and Fine Art Carrier
Sole Trader

Name of Principal contact: Chris Bennett
Website: https://chrisbennettartcarrier.com/
Social Media: NONE
Description of services offered: Experienced Art carrier, regular runs from Bristol to London. 
Typical Prices quoted: painting from Bristol to West  London £50 plus vat
Insurance:
  • Public liability insurance up to £2 million
  • Goods in transit insurance up to £10,000.
Address: 26 Rippleside Road Clevedon, BS21 7JX
Office:
Mobile: 07860 899 055 
Email: [email protected]
Fragilistics
Private limited company # 08696803 Incorporated on 19 September 2013. (Caution: Accounts overdue)

Their Pitch: a 3rd party logistics company providing a delivery service for fragile mirrors & artwork
Name of Principal contact: Andy Brunning
​Website: https://www.fragilistics.co.uk/ (Home Page could be a lot more helpful! NOT internet savvy)
​Description of services offered: collect, hub and deliver your mirrors and/or artworks to destination in the quickest time possible. Specialist handling equipment and trained warehouse operatives ensure the safest transit method. Specialist fleet of vehicles deliver to every UK mainland postcode weekly every day except Sundays.
Social Media: NONE
​Typical Prices quoted: NONE
Insurance: NOT IDENTIFIED
​Address: NONE
​Registered office: Fragilistics Building Bradbourne Drive Tilbrook Milton Keynes MK7 8AT
Telephone: 01908 315149 | 08448 468 544 
​Name of Principal Contact: NONE
Email:  [email protected]
CAUTION: Gallery Support Group: Art Shuttle
Private limited company #08241106

Gallery Support Group Limited a.k.a. Art Shuttle went into liquidation 2018. Staff were made redundant and an Administrator was appointed in May 2018. An Administrators Final Report to Creditors was filed with Companies House in June 2019. It's unclear what the status of this service is given the history on file. (I have a query waiting for an answer - the first email bounced)
Not compliant with ecommerce regulations
​
​Name of Principal Contact: NONE
​Website: http://www.artshuttle.co.uk/
Description of services offered: 
​​Address: 
  • USED TO BE Manor Farm Rd, Wembley, Middlesex HA0 1BA 
  • Now: no address listed on website (not compliant with ecommerce regulations)
Office: +44(0)20 3053 0753
Email: [email protected] (generates response Recipient address rejected: Access denied.

This entry will be removed but remains on this website as a CAUTION - I do check entries periodically!!
Just Get Me Shipping (t/a JGM Shipping)
Private limited company #11235947 Incorporated on
6 March 2018 
​
Their pitch: Experienced Antiques and Art carrier. Specialises in Auction House Collections.
Name of Principal contact: none
Website: https://www.jgmshipping.com/
Social Media: Has sites they don't use. 
​Typical Prices quoted: None, see request a quote form
Insurance: none stated
Registered office address: 3 Greenock Road, London, England, W3 8DU
Hours: Mon-Fri 10am - 6pm
Office:
Mobile: 02039295764
Email: [email protected]

Recommended by
I have used JGM Shipping several times to move my pieces from my studio to galleries and art fairs, as well as delivering sold works to clients. They are highly competent, knowledgeable and very competitively priced. I usually find moving my work around very stressful, especially when relying on carriers and have had several disasters and missed deadlines in the past. On each occasion with JGM they have met my requirements exactly and delivered with time to spare.
ADVERT

Directory of SPECIALIST Fine Art Transport Services
including International Fine Art Shipping
​

How to move fine art and antiques - and even exhibitions!
​
While there are any number of transport, shipping and post services, there are rather fewer services which specialise in moving and shipping 
  • valuable fine art and
  • who will deal with individuals as well as galleries and art dealers
  • between countries and overseas
​
Below you can find links to a number of services which specialise in moving art in the UK and around the world. 

ALWAYS GET A PRICED QUOTE AND DETAILS OF THE SERVICE OFFERED AND ASSOCIATED CONDITIONS IN WRITING

UK WIDE
​

UK-wide & INTERNATIONAL
​

UK Members of ARTIM - leading fine art logistics companies around the world

CONSTANTINE
Royal Warrant for transport of Fine Art, Packing, Handling and Transportation Services granted to Momart by Her Majesty The Queen in 1993
Website: ​http://www.const.co.uk/
Description of services offered: Fine Art Logistics for private collectors, museums and galleries. Includes transport by land, sea and air. State-of-the-art secure storage and warehousing, a fleet of specialised vehicles and knowledgeable staff. Arts Council approved secure facilities in London and Edinburgh
​Typical Prices quoted: NONE quoted
Insurance: NONE quoted
​Address: Constantine House, 20-26 Sandgate Street, London, SE15 1LE
Registered Address: None stated
​Company No. None stated
VAT: None stated
Telephone: +44(0)20 7732 8123
​Name of Principal Contact: 
Email: [email protected]
MOMART
Royal Warrant for transport of Fine Art granted to Momart by Her Majesty The Queen in 1993
​Website: http://www.momart.com/
​Momart Brochure
​Description of services offered: Art transportation, art shipping, art storage and art fair services. ​​Leading fine art and antiques shipping and storage company offering UK, EU and international art transport and handling. Offers a professional level of art logistics service from planning and budgeting, packing and case making through to worldwide fine art transport and secure art storage. The latter includes a fully customs bonded storage.
​Typical Prices quoted: NONE
Insurance: NONE
​Address: Exchange Tower, 6th Floor, 2 Harbour Exchange Square, London, E14 9GE
Momart East: East 10 Enterprise Park, Argall Way, London, E10 7DQ
Registered Address: NONE?
​Company No. NONE
VAT: NONE
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7426 3000
​Name of Principal Contact: NONE
Email: [email protected]

Other global art movers in the UK
​

Alban Shipping 
Website: http://albanshipping.co.uk/ - provides a clear explanation of services offered
Established: 1991; ​
​Description of services offered: Specialist packing for the antique industry, auction houses, fine art and antique worldwide shippers - including collectors; ​ expert packing ensures safe transport of all valuables to any destination worldwide. Packing services for London's 2018 Spring 'The Other Art Fair', 
Memberships: a member of the British Association of Forwarders Approved by Resource, the council for Museums, Archives and Libraries
Contracts: Use standard terms and conditions of the British International Freight Association (BIFA)
​Typical Prices quoted: quotations exclude duties, taxes, MPF, bond fee, storage fees, overtime or awaiting for shipment, hoisting, long distance or staircase carrying, heavy lifting, double journey, installation, unpacking, disposal of debris or any other services, unless specified in your request for a quotation.
Insurance:
​Address: ​Unit 4. Premier Business Park, Dencora Way, Luton
Bedfordshire LU3 3HP.
Registered Address: NONE
​Company No. NONE
VAT: NONE
Telephone: 01582 493099
​Fax: 01582 490147 
Mobile: NONE
​Name of Principal Contact: 
Email:  [email protected]
​Art Move (UK AND WORLDWIDE)
Website: http://artmove.co.uk/
Established: 1983. ​
​Description of services offered: one of the most experienced art handlers in London; Customs Warehouse status; computerised inventory service; advise and manage every aspect of moving and installing artworks, from very large exhibitions to one painting in your home; operate unmarked customised vehicles manned by experienced and helpful art technicians. Worldwide shipping, airfreight and casing services for all types of artworks
​Typical Prices quoted: 
Insurance:
​Address: 110 -118 Stewarts Road, London SW8 4UG, 
Registered Office: Penhurst House, 352-356 Battersea Park Road, London, SW11 3BY
Company Registered in England 1988301
VAT No. GB 437 2564 43
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7720 7460
​Fax: +44 (0)20 7738 8839
Mobile: NONE
​Name of Principal Contact: NONE
Email: [email protected]
Crown Fine Art (UK)
Website: https://www.crownfineart.com
​Description of services offered: ​Global Company delivering specialised transportation of fine arts since 1989. Services include: Exhibition Logistics, Packing and Crating, Safe Shipping, Transportation and Freight, Long and Short-Term storage, Air Freight and Airport Services. Always use their own always use our own trucks to transport artworks. Every truck has built-in air suspension, climate control, remote track-and-trace and alarm systems.
​Typical Prices quoted: NONE
Insurance: NONE
​Address: Crown Fine Art, Art Central, 20-22 Union Rd, London, SW4 6JP + office in Oxford
Registered Address: NONE
​Company No. NONE
VAT: NONE
Telephone: +44 (0) 20 7732 7610 
​Name of Principal Contact: Michael Festenstein, Special Projects Manager
Email: [email protected] 
HMC Packing
Website: http://www.hmcpacking.com/index.php (it's a very accessible website)
​Description of services offered: a specialist fine art shipping, packing, crating and transport company
​Typical Prices quoted: Prepare a Quote page: http://www.hmcpacking.com/page.php?iid=6
Insurance: NONE They have a page on their website but it has no content
​Address: NONE  "based in central London"
Registered Address:  NONE
​Company No.  NONE
VAT:  NONE
Telephone: 020 7703 1666
​Fax:
Mobile: NONE
​Name of Principal Contact: Ian Fisher (BA Hons)
Email: [email protected]
Fine Art Packing & Art Packaging by Adam Crease Shipping
Adam Crease Shipping offer a specialist fine art packing and art packaging solution
Fine Art Shipping | Art Transport | AirSea Packing
We are specialists in packing and shipping Fine Art. We customise the packaging to ensure the safety of all your valuables.
Shipping Antiques, Ship Art, Shipping Interior Designs, Shipping Service, Shipping Freight, Packing
The British Shop are Specialist Packers and Worldwide Shippers of Antiques, Fine Art and Interior Designs.
Art Shipping - Removals Overseas - International Removals - Storage Services - Constantine Ltd
Constantine Ltd - Scotland - Art Shipping - Air, Road and Sea - Art Storage
move-art.com - Move-art.com is a company specialising in moving fine art and sculpture around the world. ​

ADVERT

Generic Shipping Services offering art transportation

Pack Send - Art and Antiques - ​regularly work for fine art dealers, artists, auction houses, art galleries, museums and private collectors by packing and shipping art, antiques, sculptures or antiquities.
Artquest / Art Directory / Presenting and documenting / Art shipping and handling
​This section includes listings of transport and shipping companies who specialise or have extensive experience in transporting artworks.
WANT TO CHECK YOUR OPTIONS AND COSTS?

ParcelMonkey - Check out generic options for transporting parcels. This site enables you to compare and book parcel services. It references trusted services and enables you to identify discounts with premium brand services.
Picture
Delivering artwork to Stage Two judging of the John Moores Painting Prize | copyright Katherine Lloyd

Have you transported artwork? Can you recommend a carrier?

 Please use this form if you are an artist or an art collector who has used a courier, carrier or shipper to move art within the UK or internationally - and you want to:
  • EITHER recommend the carrier
  • OR highlight unsatisfactory practices

It helps if you say:
  • what your reason was for moving art
  • whether this was within the UK or between the UK and another country
  • why you recommend the firm you identify
  • OR what the specific unsatisfactory practices of a specific firm were - and what their response was when you complained

    I recommend my UK art courier