We caught up with Ross Giles, Private Client Director a Gander & White, to learn more about the company, its fascinating world of fine art logistics, and the expertise and care that goes into moving some of the world’s most treasured works of art.

For those who may not know Gander & White, can you tell us a little about the company and how it all

began?

Gander & White began life in 1933 as specialists in the packing and handling of fine art & antiques. Working for private collectors, galleries and auction houses. From our original base in South-West London, the company expanded in the 1980’s with an opening of a facility In New York. The following decade we established an operation in Paris, and as we hit a new millennium, the company diversified into new logistics areas. We set up a contemporary art department, starting to work with museums, managing interior design projects and finally private clients with household relocations & storage services. The company continued to expand within the US with offices in Palm Beach & Miami on the East Coast and then San Francisco & Los Angeles on the West Coast. Our network of facilities means we can cover some of the most important cites and locations in the world.

What makes Gander & White different from a traditional removals or logistics company?

We offer a totally bespoke service to each and every client. Be it, the packing and transportation of a new purchased painting. To vast international household relocations consisting of numerous 40ft sea freight containers. Being the specialists that we are in packing and handling delicate and high-value possessions. We take the same care with the

whole contents of the client’s property. It’s a full white glove door to door service. We pride ourselves on the repeat business and recommendations that we get.

When moving fine art, antiques or valuable furniture, what are the biggest challenges that people perhaps don’t realise?

Some of the pieces that with handle and transport can be centuries old. Thay may not have

been moved with the property for years, this particularly applies to Stately Homes. With

temperature & humidity fluctuations great care must be taken as to not remove any veneer

or decorative mouldings from furniture of gilt from picture frames.

How do you plan a move where a client’s possessions are travelling between different countries,

customs regimes and time zones?

All international relocations are planned methodically from the start. If Gander & White do

not have an operation within the destination city or country, then we use a trusted global

network of agents. All customs formalities, such as; the completing of importation

documentation will be finalised by the client prior to arrival so no delay or issues incur. We

or our agent would guide the client through the whole process.

Security is obviously a major consideration when moving valuable possessions. How do you ensure

everything is protected throughout the journey?

The safety of client’s possessions is paramount to the company. We fully pack and if required, construct wooden crates for the relevant items. Our packing standards are very high. We have built our reputation on this. At no time will any item be left unattended whilst in one of our vehicles. For high-value airfreight shipments, we can undertake witness loading of the plane. The same process at the destination airport.

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important. How are you reducing the environmental impact of

transporting, packing and storing valuable items?

We have invested in 3 electric vehicles. These range from a pool car to a 16ton truck. We recircle all our used soft packing materials. These are compressed within a large compactor and then taken away for recycling.

Is there a particular piece or project you have worked on that stands out as especially memorable orchallenging? What is the most unusual item you have ever been asked to move?

We have undertaken some challenging moves and projects over the years. I suppose the main one that has had the biggest impact was a move and installation for a chalet in the Swiss alps. We had to use a helicopter to transfer the effects from our truck to the property. All very exciting.

What advice would you give someone who is planning a major house move and has a significant

collection of art, antiques or valuable possessions?

The packing and moving of client’s residences with a considerable amount of delicate and valuable contents cannot be rushed. Allow plenty of time. Packing will take longer.

What do you think clients value most about working with Gander & White?

We are still a family-owned friendly business. We offer a professional and bespoke service

tailed to each individual client. No two relocations are the same!

What is it about working in this industry that still excites you after all these years?

Meeting new potential clients, visiting some amazing properties and have the privilege to see stunning and important artworks in private homes.

Gander & White is Wentworth Lifestyle Partner