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Courier training: Getting it there in one piece
Professional development course
+44 (0)20 7942 2000
We will explore the different stages of the courier trip, from planning and preparation to delivery and installation. You'll hear from expert V&A staff about the personal and professional qualities they look for in a successful courier.
You'll discover how digital couriering can provide an alternative method when faced with travel restrictions, and our Exhibitions team will share their experiences of receiving couriers for blockbuster exhibitions. Through case studies and group tasks, you'll learn how to handle common obstacles faced by couriers, including last-minute schedule changes and object damage.
Objects are the heart of the museum, so keeping them safe in transit is vital. On this course you will learn the most up-to-date practices associated with couriering for museums today.
We will explore the different stages of the courier trip, from planning and preparation to delivery and installation. You'll hear from expert V&A staff about the personal and professional qualities they look for in a successful courier.
You'll discover how digital couriering can provide an alternative method when faced with travel restrictions, and our Exhibitions team will share their experiences of receiving couriers for blockbuster exhibitions. Through case studies and group tasks, you'll learn how to handle common obstacles faced by couriers, including last-minute schedule changes and object damage.
Collections Registrars
Helen Dawson, Ana Muñoz and Elizabeth Loughran
This course will be delivered by Helen Dawson, Ana Muñoz and Elizabeth Loughran, who are members of the V&A’s expert Loan Section staff. They are responsible for the Museum’s extensive programme of loans-in and -out and have extensive experience of organising and undertaking courier trips with our collections across the UK and abroad.
It's just invaluable to hear from people with so much practical experience and knowledge. Hearing real life examples was really helpful. Previous attendee
Course overview
This course will cover the considerations and preparations necessary for a courier trip. You will learn when and why a courier is required, along with the various museum departments involved in object transfer. V&A Registrars will explain the transportation process, from methods of transport to unloading and moving objects upon arrival. You'll discover the borrowers' point of view as our Exhibitions team share their advice for a smooth borrowing process and object transfer. In an interactive group task, you'll be given case studies involving common problems and discuss the best solutions. You'll also learn about a recent addition to the courier process, digital couriering, as a safe and sustainable alternative to traditional couriering.
By the end of this day's training, you will be able to:
understand the role and importance of a courier, successfully plan a courier trip from start to finish, and handle situations that don't go to plan.
Enrol now
Professional development course: Courier training: Getting it there in one piece
2 April 2025
£195.00
Need help enrolling? Talk to the admissions team:
+44 (0)20 7942 2000
Open 10.00 - 13.00, Monday to Sunday (closed 24-26 December)
