You never truly realize how much you own until it’s time to move. The endless hunt for boxes, the actual packing, and the challenge of finding your belongings afterward—it’s a universal struggle. Now, imagine the monumental task of relocating an entire collection of fragile historical artifacts. This was the challenge faced by the Ohio History Connection when they decided to move their vast collection to a state-of-the-art warehouse.
Enter Planes Moving & Storage, the trusted partner that turned this daunting task into a collaborative effort. Becky Odom, Manager of the Curatorial Department, shared the driving force behind the move: “We wanted to provide better care for the collections we hold in public trust for the people of Ohio.”
Previously stored in retrofitted warehouses, the artifacts needed a better environment for preservation. “Improved workflows and climate control were essential to protect the artifacts,” Odom explained. Planes Moving & Storage helped ensure the safe transfer of thousands of fragile historical items.
Jonathan Cass, who led the relocation efforts for Planes, emphasized the importance of customized solutions for such a complex move. “We used specialized equipment and packaging to avoid any damage,” Cass shared. “Working with artifacts of this caliber, our approach had to be precise and calculated from start to finish.”
Todd Topper, Collections Expansion Project Manager and Move Consultant, highlighted the importance of modern preservation standards: “Best practices for museums have evolved, and we needed to keep up.” Thanks to Planes Moving & Storage, the new facility now ensures artifacts are stored in controlled environments, safeguarding their longevity.
Among the most delicate items were intricate butterfly and moth specimens. “Insects like these are incredibly fragile—any jostling could destroy them,” noted Topper. The meticulous planning and handling methods employed by Planes were vital in safely transferring these irreplaceable pieces. “Our team had to ensure everything was wrapped and packaged properly while avoiding any bumps along the way,” added Cass.
The success of this project hinged on the close working relationship between Ohio History Connection and Planes Moving & Storage. Cass emphasized the importance of building strong client relationships, especially with sensitive cargo. “You have to feel confident you’re getting the right answers and that your team will pivot if needed,” he shared. Both teams worked closely, mapping detailed plans, staying flexible and communicating constantly. “We even had walkie-talkies on hand for real-time updates,” Cass said.
Moving artifacts isn’t just about transportation—it’s about thoughtful handling and innovative solutions. Odom mentioned that Tyvek wrap and specialty crates were used for the most valuable items, including fossils that needed extra care.
This move plays a crucial role in preserving local heritage. Neil Thompson, Manager of Media and Public Relations for Ohio History Connection, emphasized the lasting impact: “These artifacts are now preserved for future generations. Decades, even centuries from now, people will be able to learn from them.” Planes’ commitment to protecting these treasures helped to ensure Ohio’s history remains accessible for years to come.
For those planning moves, Cass advised, "Always consult an expert. Your items, whether valuable or sentimental, deserve the utmost care." Topper agreed, stressing the importance of building trust with your moving team: “Go out for coffee, make sure they understand your expectations.”
The partnership between Ohio History Connection and Planes Moving & Storage underscores the intricate, detail-oriented work required for a project of this scale. As Odom summed up, “History never stops, and the more we learn from these artifacts, the better we can guide the future.” Together, they ensured that Ohio’s history remains preserved for generations to come, a testament to the power of collaboration and dedication.
Jonathan Cass, who led the relocation efforts for Planes, emphasized the importance of customized solutions for such a complex move. “We used specialized equipment and packaging to avoid any damage,” Cass shared. “Working with artifacts of this caliber, our approach had to be precise and calculated from start to finish.”