Shipping or self-transport

When it comes to transport, questions about the customs rules to be observed are not the only ones. Whenever extensive stage décor or fragile and valuable works of art or design objects cannot be moved independently, it must be carefully planned with whom to entrust them to so they arrive at their destination safely and intact. A certain degree of wear and tear is hardly avoidable during transport: Some theater companies even say that damage of the stage design must be expected from the outset. In case of art works with high ideational and financial values, transport is a particular risk-phase, so that time and distance between safe storage locations should be kept as short as possible.  

Before a decision is made with regard to the mode of transportation, the following questions should be answered: 

• How much personal contribution is possible and how much support is needed; i.e. can the transport be carried out independently or does it require a shipping company or courier service?  
• Is the transport volume or the distance so great that the objects have to be transported as cargo by sea, by train or by plane?   
• How fragile are the objects to be transported and how will they be treated during transport?  
• How should the goods be packaged and who will package them at the destination for their return?   
• Which customs formalities must be observed?
• And above all: How much time and money is available? 

It is advisable to seek advice from experienced colleagues, both at home and abroad.