Detailed preparation to tour terracotta relics overseas

Taking the rare Qin terracotta warriors and horses around the world for exhibitions entails much difficulty and detailed preparations for those responsible for their care. [Photo by Fan Zhen/chinadaily.com.cn]

The experts would repeat their careful inspections after the exhibition is over, Zhang said.

After the relics were all checked, they were packed with care by the transport company, said Zhu Yonghong, deputy general manager of Shaanxi Huaxie International Treasures Freight Services.

"Each relic gets customized custom packaging according to its texture with acid-free paper that protects the heritage item from surface wear," Zhu said.

The treasures were then put into wooden or brocade boxes with padded interiors to protect the items from shock and moisture, Zhu said.

"The packaging boxes were made of special fumigation-free wooden board which could not be compromised by borer," the deputy general manager said.

The vehicles for transporting the exhibits were also specially equipped to maintain a constant temperature and absorb shocks, and their speed was limited to between 60 and 80 km per hour. There were also strict security measures during the transportation from the treasury to the exhibition places.

Zhu said the heritage items to be displayed in foreign countries must be declared to customs in advance and then his company sends the exhibits by air to their destination countries via Shanghai.