Museum exhibition logistics play a vital role in protecting value, preserving integrity, and meeting tight deadlines with zero margin for error.

At EFM, we offer fully integrated exhibition logistics services designed to support museum operations teams at every stage. Whether you’re managing a single exhibit or a multi-city tour, our team handles every detail from origin to installation.

Here’s what’s included in our end-to-end support:

Pre-Planning & Project Coordination

  • Detailed scoping of transport, venue, and compliance requirements
  • Exhibition-specific routing plans (domestic and international)
  • Close coordination with curators, registrars, and conservators
  • Hour-by-hour scheduling to align with venue timelines

Artefact Handling & Custom Crating

  • Conservation-grade materials and bespoke crate design
  • Shock, vibration, and humidity control are built into packaging
  • Object-specific packing protocols based on material and condition
  • Coordination with conservators for handling guidance and packing approvals

Courier Management

  • Courier scheduling and briefing documents
  • Tarmac supervision and access coordination at airports
  • Real-time communication and status reporting
  • Integration with museum courier protocols and requirements

Transport Services

  • Climate-controlled art trucks as required
  • Security convoys for all road movements, with armed guards accompanying artefacts at all times
  • Secure handling zones and specialist art handlers at each location as required
  • GPS tracking and environmental condition monitoring
  • Charter aircraft coordination for international or oversized shipments

Customs & Regulatory Compliance

  • Preparation of import/export documentation
  • CITES applications and approvals for restricted materials
  • Indemnity and insurance coordination
  • On-call customs liaison for clearance updates and issue resolution

Secure Storage & Staging

  • Secure warehousing with restricted access and CCTV
  • Climate-controlled storage with temperature and humidity regulation as needed
  • High-security facilities with 24/7 security; artefacts are never left unattended
  • Short-term holding for tour transitions or delayed installations

Installation & Venue Coordination

  • Final-mile delivery planning with venue teams
  • Delivery sequencing and crate placement
  • On-site presence for handover and installation readiness
  • Removal and return of empty crates or cases post-install

Certifications & Credentials

EFM holds accreditations that reflect our operational standards:

  • ISO9001 (Quality Management)
  • ISO14001 (Environmental Management)
  • ISO20121 (Event Sustainability)
  • IATA, BIFA, UKWA, ESSA memberships

Get Clarity, Control, and Confidence

Exhibition logistics demands more than general freight services. With EFM, you gain a specialist partner who understands the operational, cultural, and conservation priorities of moving museum-grade artefacts.

 

Planning an upcoming exhibition or tour?
Let’s talk about how we can support your team end-to-end.