Strengthening Global Partnerships at ICEFAT’s 49th Annual Convention in Budapest

In October 2025, we had the privilege of joining leading fine art logistics specialists from around the world at the 49th Annual ICEFAT Convention, held in Budapest, Hungary. As Africa’s only ICEFAT-accredited fine art relocation company, attending this prestigious event allowed us to connect with our international partners and reaffirm our commitment to global excellence in fine art logistics.

The ICEFAT convention is one of the most significant gatherings in our industry; a space where innovation meets collaboration. This year, representatives from 80 member companies across 37 countries came together to exchange knowledge, strengthen relationships, and discuss emerging trends shaping the future of fine art transport.

Across four inspiring days, we engaged in a dynamic programme filled with industry talks, networking sessions, and thought-provoking discussions. From the Welcome Reception and Gala Dinner to the Women in Logistics event and Danube Boat Cruise, the convention provided meaningful opportunities to build partnerships and share our expertise with peers who share our values of care, precision, and integrity.

Africa’s Only ICEFAT-Accredited Fine Art Relocation Company

Being a member of ICEFAT (the International Convention of Exhibition and Fine Art Transporters) is more than an achievement; it’s a responsibility we take seriously. ICEFAT represents the highest global standard in fine art logistics, with only a select number of companies worldwide meeting its stringent criteria for quality, ethics, and operational excellence.

As the only ICEFAT-accredited company in Africa, we’re proud to uphold these standards on the continent. Our accreditation signifies that we operate according to the same best practices as the world’s top art handlers and museum logistics specialists. It’s a distinction that assures our clients, from museums and galleries to collectors and corporates, that their artworks are handled with expertise and absolute professionalism.

Being part of ICEFAT also connects us to a global network of trusted partners, enabling us to deliver fine art relocation services across borders. Whether we’re managing a loan to an international exhibition or relocating a private collection within South Africa, our clients benefit from the strength of these partnerships and the shared commitment to safeguarding cultural heritage.

Our Legacy in Fine Art Relocation

Our journey in fine art logistics began more than three decades ago with a defining project: the transportation of the Leonardo da Vinci: Scientist, Inventor, Artist exhibition in 1996, which was the first and only exhibition of its kind to visit Africa. Hosted by the Pretoria Art Museum, the exhibition featured over 250 works, including paintings, models, sculptures, and rare manuscripts, representing one of the most significant cultural events in South African history.

This monumental undertaking required a level of precision unprecedented in the country at the time. Its success marked the start of our journey into fine art relocation and established us as a trusted name in the industry.

Since then, we’ve managed the movement of works by Pablo Picasso, Marc Chagall, Eduardo Villa, William Kentridge, Penny Siopis, and many other renowned artists. As South African art gained international attention after 1994, we became the go-to partner for museums, galleries, and collectors who needed reliable fine art logistics, both locally and globally.

Handling Fine Art the ICEFAT Way

Every fine art relocation project we undertake adheres to ICEFAT’s rigorous global standards, ensuring the same level of protection, precision, and professionalism that major museums and institutions expect.

We take a methodical approach to every stage of the process, from packing and crating to transport. Our team combines technical expertise with deep respect for the artworks we move. Each item is carefully assessed for its material composition, fragility, and environmental sensitivities before packing begins.

For example, fragile and smaller artworks such as sculptures and ceramics are individually wrapped in acid-free glassine paper, which serves as the first layer of protection against chemical reactions and abrasions. This is followed by a second layer of aerothene, a cushioning material that absorbs vibration and shock.

Once wrapped, the items are placed in cartons filled with polystyrene chips, restricting any movement during transit. These cartons are then secured within custom-built cavity crates made from ISPM 15-certified solid wood, with internal foam inserts designed to immobilise and protect each piece.

All materials we use are museum-grade, ensuring the highest level of protection during every stage of the journey, whether by air, road, or sea. This process reflects the ICEFAT standard, which places safety, environmental control, and craftsmanship at the heart of fine art logistics.

Project Management: Where Precision Meets Coordination

While technical skill is essential, the true complexity of fine art relocation lies in coordination. Many of our projects involve multiple lenders, museums, and insurance partners, each with unique requirements and expectations.

Our project management team handles this complexity with absolute precision. We act as the central point of communication, coordinating schedules, managing documentation, and ensuring compliance across all stakeholders.

Collaboration on a Global Stage

Attending the ICEFAT Convention in Budapest reinforced the importance of global collaboration in the fine art logistics sector. The movement of art is becoming increasingly complex due to changing protocols and international regulations.

By participating in events like this, we stay at the forefront of innovation, adopting new technologies for environmental monitoring, integrating sustainable materials, and refining digital project management systems that streamline operations and enhance transparency.

Guided by ICEFAT’s leadership under Secretary General Judith Uijtewaal-Damen, this year’s convention offered a platform for dialogue and progress. It also reminded us of our responsibility to represent Africa in these global conversations, ensuring that our continent’s cultural heritage continues to move safely and confidently across borders.

Our Ongoing Commitment

For us, fine art relocation is also about preservation. Every artwork we handle carries history, emotion, and meaning. We treat each project as a privilege and a responsibility, whether it involves centuries-old masterpieces or contemporary installations.

Our commitment to ICEFAT’s principles of excellence guarantees that we maintain the highest international standards. By combining these strengths, we offer our clients a service that is both globally trusted and regionally grounded.

Partner with Elliott Fine Art Relocation

If you are interested in learning more about moving fine art, we invite you to contact Elliott Fine Art Relocation.