A well-fitted protective cover begins with accurate measurements. Whether you need a cover for an archival box, shelving bay, museum trolley, framed collection, equipment or an irregular object, the details you provide determine how well the finished cover protects the item and how easy it is to use.
This guide explains what to measure, which photographs to take and what access details to include when requesting a custom cover. If you are still deciding whether Tyvek is suitable, read our practical guide to Tyvek covers for museum and archival storage.
Need advice for a particular object? Explore Archvail custom archival storage covers or send us your dimensions and photographs.
What you need before measuring
Use a rigid tape measure for straight dimensions and a flexible tape for curved or irregular surfaces. Keep a notepad nearby and label every figure clearly. Record measurements in millimetres to avoid conversion errors.
- Rigid tape measure or steel rule
- Flexible tape for curved forms
- Camera or phone
- Sketch paper for complex shapes
- A second person for large objects or shelving
Start with maximum width, depth and height
For most covers, begin with the maximum external dimensions:
- Width: left to right across the widest point.
- Depth: front to back across the deepest point.
- Height: from the intended base line to the highest point.
Include handles, latches, hinges, brackets, castors, shelf edges and other projections. If the object changes shape when opened or adjusted, record both storage and operating dimensions.
Measure in the normal storage position
Place removable components in their usual locations and set adjustable equipment to its normal storage configuration. For shelving, record the full external dimensions and whether the cover should finish at floor level, above castors or at another point. For a trolley, identify whether its handle must remain accessible.
Record protrusions and irregular shapes
A rectangular measurement may not describe the entire object. Photograph and measure handles, hinges, locks, wheels, feet, cables, controls, sloped tops, stepped profiles and fragile projecting parts. For an irregular form, provide a front and side sketch marked with its major dimensions.
Allow practical clearance
A cover should not be so tight that it catches on corners or requires force to remove. Provide the true maximum dimensions rather than adding an arbitrary allowance. Archvail can discuss suitable fitting clearance based on the object's size, outline, access needs and handling routine.
Plan access before production
Identify areas that require routine access, such as doors, drawers, handles, controls, inspection points, labels, barcodes and lifting positions. State which face is the front and describe the preferred opening direction. Mark the desired location of any flap, closure, viewing window or label pocket on a photograph.
Photographs to include
- A complete front view
- A complete side view
- A rear view if it differs
- A top view where safe
- Close-ups of protrusions and fragile details
- A wider view of the storage environment
- Any restricted clearance around the object
Photographs are valuable context, but do not rely on them alone for dimensions.
Measuring repeated items
If several objects appear identical, measure one complete sample and check the others for variations. Record the total quantity and identify outliers requiring a separate size. For a large programme, beginning with a representative unit or small batch can confirm fit before further production.
What to send with your quotation request
- Object or equipment type
- Maximum width, depth and height in millimetres
- Quantity required
- Front, side and detail photographs
- Projections or fragile areas
- Preferred access openings and closures
- Label or viewing-window requirements
- Storage conditions and handling frequency
- Delivery location and required timeframe
For sensitive collection material, direct-contact applications or unusual environments, consult your conservator and tell us about the relevant preservation requirements. A protective cover should support—not replace—the collection's wider preventive conservation plan.
Ready to request a custom cover?
Send Archvail your measurements, photographs and access requirements. We can review the application and discuss a made-to-measure protective cover for museums, archives, libraries, galleries and collection stores in Australia and internationally.
Contact Archvail for a custom-cover enquiry or explore our custom Tyvek archival storage cover service.