Shipping Artifacts to Harpers Ferry Center

• FAQ
• Analytical Support
• Integrated Pest Management for Museums & Collections
• Selecting Fabric for Exhibit Cases
• Shipping Artifacts to Harpers Ferry Center
• Instruction for Making Customized Ethafoam Hangers

What is the best way to ship objects to Harpers Ferry Cneter-Conservation?

There is no one best way to ship something to HFC. You need to assess the condition of the object, its composition, size, weight and structural integrity, as well as the distance it is to travel when you design a packing system and select a method of transport. There are many transportation options that will get your artifact to us safely. Choices vary in speed of delivery, cost and care of handling. They range from park personnel acting as a courier to commercial services and the U.S. Postal Service. We can help you select the method that best accommodates your circumstances.

Contact Alice Newton, Registrar (phone: [phone]; email: [e-mail]).

What information do I need before seeking assistance?

Before you call for help with shipping decisions be sure to have a list of objects, their size, and a description of general condition at hand. We can advise on packing methods, materials to use and discuss whether you need a crate or box to ship your artifacts. If your shipment includes multiple boxes, place a list of contents within each box as well as numbering the box exterior (1 of 2, 2 of 2, etc.).

What type of paperwork does HFC require for the shipped items?

An Outgoing Loan Agreement and a Receipt of Property needs to be included for park owned artifacts. We will sign both of these papers and return copies to you. When applicable, include copies of any loan agreements for the objects loaned to your park along with the owner’s current address and phone number.

What shipping address do I use?

The Office of the Registrar has two addresses and the one to use depends on the shipping method. The U. S. Postal Service delivers to our P. O. Box while the commercial services use our street address. Be sure to place our address on each box along with your return address. Call the Registrar’s Office (304-535-6717) and let us know time and method of shipment. Our delivery address for commercial delivery services (UPS, FedEx, etc.) is:

• National Park Service
  Harpers Ferry Center
  Office of the Registrar, Room 141
  31 Maple Tree Drive
  Charles Town, WV 25414

Our U.S. Postal Service delivery address is:

• National Park Service
  Harpers Ferry Center
  Office of the Registrar
  P.O. Box 50
  Harpers Ferry, WV 25425-0050