Custom Crating Excellence

What We Build

Custom Crating

Items such as fine art, sculptures, stone, taxidermy collections, or objects that require extra protection in transit will need to be packed and crated. VIP Transport provides high quality materials to custom build anything from a simple, single-use crate to sophisticated re-usable crates.

Including

• Standard crates
• One-way / two-way crates
• Slat crates
• Fitted interiors
• Multi-use travel crates
• International crating (based on country requirements)

Specializations

Items We Crate

• Fine Art & Sculptures
• Antique Furniture
• Taxidermy & Trophy Mounts
• Heirloom China & Glassware
• Musical Instruments
• Chandeliers & Lighting
• Wine Collections
• Stone, Marble & Mantels

How much does custom crating cost?

Custom crating costs vary based on item size, fragility, and required materials. Small items like electronics may cost $150-400, while large sculptures or antiques requiring museum-grade crating can range from $500-2,500+. VIP Transport provides free assessments and detailed quotes tailored to your specific items and protection requirements.

What materials are used in custom crating?

VIP Transport uses premium materials including kiln-dried lumber, marine-grade plywood, acid-free tissue and foam, custom-cut polyethylene foam, vibration-dampening materials, and climate-stable wood for temperature-sensitive items. For fine art and museum pieces, we use archival-quality materials that prevent off-gassing and chemical damage.

How long does the custom crating process take?

Standard custom crating typically takes 2-5 business days from assessment to completion. Complex items requiring specialized engineering may take 1-2 weeks. Rush services are available for urgent needs. The timeline includes assessment, design, material procurement, construction, and quality inspection before your item is packed.

Is my item insured during the crating and shipping process?

VIP Transport is fully licensed, bonded, and insured. Standard cargo coverage is included with every shipment, and additional coverage can be obtained on request — including full declared-value protection arranged through specialized fine art and collectibles insurers for extremely valuable items. Our team will walk you through the right coverage level for your specific shipment.

What types of items require custom crating?

Custom crating is recommended for fine art, sculptures, antique furniture, musical instruments, medical and laboratory equipment, servers and sensitive electronics, chandeliers, wine collections, and any item that is irreplaceable, fragile, or valued over $5,000. Standard packaging cannot provide adequate protection for these items during transit.

Can you create reusable crates for items that ship frequently?

Yes, VIP Transport designs and builds reusable museum-style crates ideal for traveling exhibitions, rental equipment, or items that require regular shipping. These crates feature easy-open mechanisms, foam inserts custom-fitted to your item, and durable construction rated for multiple uses while maintaining maximum protection.