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UPS International Air Freight Moves Priceless Art

Video Highlights

42 specialized crates designed to minimize vibration
70º F shipping temperature maintained over 66,000 miles

UPS Delivers Priceless Cargo

In 1974, Chinese well diggers accidentally unearthed a treasure—an army of life-size terra cotta warriors fashioned by artisans to honor the soldiers of ancient Chinese Emperor Qin Shi Huang. From 2008 through 2010, UPS undertook an extraordinary challenge—helping the world to see China’s priceless cultural legacy on tour, and returning it home safely.

The transportation of historic, priceless statues over a 66,000 mile journey presented UPS with extraordinary logistical challenges.

The figures are fragile. Excessive heat or cold, vibration, moisture—all pose serious threats. UPS moved the warriors in 42 custom-built crates specially designed to minimize vibration while front-loading the artifacts into one of UPS’ massive new 747-400 aircraft. While crossing continents, the crates were kept at a constant temperature using special air freight containers and tractor trailers.

While en route, the logistical challenges only multiplied. How do you make certain gigantic, ancient, and delicate terra cotta statues arrive on time and in pristine shape at four museums while criss-crossing the United States? To ensure every exhibit opened on schedule, UPS developed a comprehensive plan that covered every operational detail, from getting the warriors cleared through customs to how to handle contingency issues such as temperature fluctuations, mechanical failures and security for these priceless treasures.

"UPS was fantastic. The teamwork was phenomenal," said Bowers Museum President, Peter Keller. "Thanks to their efforts, we were able to safely share the warriors with the world."

The specialized expertise required for transporting the terra cotta warriors around the world is what UPS does for customers every day. Even when they’re not shipping ancient Chinese statues.