Artwork transport by FERCAM
Specialised national and international service for the transport and storage of artworks
The cultural and human value of the Artworks we handle often far exceeds their commercial value. This is why we offer a highly specialised, attentive and reliable service, active both nationally and internationally. Moving artworks is an extremely delicate and complex activity: it requires consolidated experience, professional ethics and a profound passion for our sector. Our operations are built on a solid combination of long-standing know-how and innovative techniques, with procedures designed around the needs of Museums, Galleries, Auction Houses, Artists and private Collectors.
FERCAM’s Fine Art service is fully customised and also includes the option to activate an All-Risks insurance for transport and handling, based on the declared value of the artworks. Historically provided by Gondrand, Fine Art transport services are now managed directly by FERCAM, with renewed focus on the care of artworks and the quality of the customer experience.
FERCAM’s Fine Art service is fully customised and also includes the option to activate an All-Risks insurance for transport and handling, based on the declared value of the artworks. Historically provided by Gondrand, Fine Art transport services are now managed directly by FERCAM, with renewed focus on the care of artworks and the quality of the customer experience.
The advantages of FERCAM's works of art transfer service
we guarantee the highest safety standards at every stage, using dedicated vehicles and climate-controlled vaults that ensure continuous protection and optimal conditions for works of art.
we create bespoke packaging in our in-house carpentry workshop, using high-quality materials and allocating resources at risk of waste to upcycling projects to reduce environmental impact.
we offer hanging and installation services for both museum and private settings, with specialized teams working with precision and care to ensure the safe handling of every artwork.
What do we offer?
A wide range of additional services
- Advisory and management of procedures required by the Ministry
- Handling of import/export customs operations
- Status check on the condition of artworks
- Cataloguing / Compilation of checklists for items entrusted to our care
- Project Management for transport and installation logistics
- All-Risks insurance procedures
- Courier assistance and coordination
- Overnight services
- Supervision of airport transit
High-quality packaging
Custom-designed packaging for every artwork
Every artwork is unique and requires specific care and attention. For this reason, within our specialised carpentry workshop, we produce custom packaging for every type of artwork. These are special crates designed and built on demand, using certified materials, fire-retardant and water-resistant components, and passive climate-control systems to ensure maximum safety during transport.Technical features of crates and packaging
FERCAM crates are made from poplar plywood recommended by the American Alliance of Museums for its low formaldehyde emissions compliant with EN 1084 standards. Compared to solid wood, plywood offers greater mechanical resistance thanks to its cross-layered fibre structure. Additionally, it does not require fumigation for non-EU air shipments.Our master craftsmen are available to advise on the most suitable type of packaging based on the artwork's technical characteristics, weight, volume and transport mode: travel-frames with various padding options; economical and secure Kartonbox solutions; multi-crates and high-quality museum-grade crates designed for long-term use.
Storage, vaults and security
Dedicated storage and vehicles for the protection of artworks
To safeguard the hidden life of artworks, FERCAM guarantees the highest level of Fine Art services, applying the strictest safety standards during transport and storage. FERCAM warehouses feature advanced security systems and offer various storage solutions, equipped with shelving, fixed boxes and reinforced, climate-controlled vaults.
FERCAM’s fleet includes a full range of vehicles ensuring safe transport of artworks: trucks and vans of different sizes and load capacities, temperature-controlled units, vehicles with climate systems, appropriate suspensions and anchoring systems, and innovative anti-theft devices.
FERCAM’s fleet includes a full range of vehicles ensuring safe transport of artworks: trucks and vans of different sizes and load capacities, temperature-controlled units, vehicles with climate systems, appropriate suspensions and anchoring systems, and innovative anti-theft devices.
Installation, consulting and special services for artworks
A complete service from consulting to installation
As part of FERCAM’s Fine Art service, our specialised technicians have the expertise and equipment required for any accrochage, placement or installation activity, both in private and museum environments, including large-scale and monumental works.
We provide technical consulting for the development of installation projects, along with the supply of supports and exhibition structures.
We provide technical consulting for the development of installation projects, along with the supply of supports and exhibition structures.
Training supports the journey of art
Training pathways dedicated to professionals in Fine Arts and museum logistics
Internal training: operational excellence and transversal skills
Investing in the skills of our people is a strategic priority, essential to ensuring the quality of the services we provide. The preparation of those who move, pack, document and protect artworks in complex contexts is at the heart of our work.For this reason, training is planned, structured and delivered continuously, with the goal of supporting long-term professional development.
Our internal programmes cover all the main operational areas of museum logistics and Fine Arts, including:
- advanced handling and custom packaging techniques
- workplace safety procedures
- customs procedures and Fine Arts documentation
- end-to-end supply-chain management
- effective communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills
External training: partnerships with the academic world
We collaborate with universities, technical institutes and advanced training centres to develop specialised skills and create a constant dialogue between operational know-how and research.Our specialists contribute as lecturers in classes, workshops and laboratories, while students have the opportunity to work on real-life case studies from the Fine Art logistics sector.
We also participate in national and international conferences, trade fairs and events, which are fundamental opportunities to exchange knowledge with museums, curators, public institutions, logistics partners and professionals in the sector. This continuous dialogue allows us to keep our standards aligned with the best international practices.
Our vision is to create pathways that enhance both internal talent and the new generations of professionals, combining technical expertise with cultural sensitivity. We believe in training that creates value, connects skills and promotes a shared culture of care for artworks.
For information and collaborations: fine-art@fercam.com
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FAQs
Do ministerial export procedures apply even if I’m shipping to Europe, the artwork has a low value, or it is privately owned?
Yes. Italian ministerial procedures also apply when the artwork is privately owned, of moderate value, or being exported to a European country. Under current Italian legislation, the export of artworks is regulated by the Cultural Heritage and Landscape Code (Legislative Decree 42/2004), which prohibits export without official authorisation.
Different types of certificates, licences and authorisations may be required depending on the case. We can handle the process for you.
More information: Circolazione ed esportazione | SOPRINTENDENZA
Different types of certificates, licences and authorisations may be required depending on the case. We can handle the process for you.
More information: Circolazione ed esportazione | SOPRINTENDENZA
Do you provide packaging services for artworks? How do you manage the large amount of fine wood typically required in this sector?
Yes, we create professional custom packaging for every type of artwork. All materials used are conservation-tested and suitable for export. We work with the Echo Labs social carpentry team through the REcrate project, which creates unique design objects using wood recovered from crates that previously protected artworks.
More information: REcrate Project
More information: REcrate Project
How do you handle segments of work carried out abroad?
FERCAM Fine Art specialises in international Fine Art transport, offering full customs assistance, ministerial export/import procedures and logistical coordination with museums and foreign institutions.
When parts of the work take place abroad, FERCAM Fine Art collaborates with a broad network of agents specialising exclusively in the Fine Art sector. The highest level of technical expertise and all specific requirements will always be met, regardless of where the service is carried out.
When parts of the work take place abroad, FERCAM Fine Art collaborates with a broad network of agents specialising exclusively in the Fine Art sector. The highest level of technical expertise and all specific requirements will always be met, regardless of where the service is carried out.
Do you offer services dedicated to collectors?
Yes, we provide storage facilities and climate-controlled, video-monitored vaults ideal for short- or long-term safeguarding of artworks. These facilities are accessible only to authorised personnel and designed to maintain stable environmental conditions.
We also offer exclusive private-viewing services for a personalised and discreet experience when examining artworks. Each appointment is tailor-made, in elegant and secure environments, ensuring full privacy.
We also offer exclusive private-viewing services for a personalised and discreet experience when examining artworks. Each appointment is tailor-made, in elegant and secure environments, ensuring full privacy.
Is insurance mandatory to carry out a transport?
Yes, it is not possible to perform the service without insurance coverage. FERCAM Fine Art offers the option to activate All-Risks coverage based on the declared value of the artworks. The insurance covers all phases of handling, including transport, manipulation, exhibition and any temporary storage.
Contact us
Venice office
Rome office
Contact us using the form below: you will be contacted as soon as possible by one of the members of our staff.
Alternatively, you can write us directly at fine-art@fercam.com
Alternatively, you can write us directly at fine-art@fercam.com
