only provides a shell of protection from shock, vibration, and mishandling, it also helps insulate the interior climate from fluctuating atmospheric conditions and defend against pests. Packing mounts, protective wrapping and cushioning, packing materials, crate size and layers, and means of transport are all variables which an object handler must work into an effective strategy for safe shipment. Successful moves of the past suggest that the shipment of objects begin with a complete inventory and condition survey of the objects prior to their movement. If a large number of objects are to undergo the transition, it is recommended that a smaller, representative group be sent first to reveal any improvements that can be made for the bulk of objects. All objects should be assessed to determine whether they need stabilization before shipment; it is possible that some should not travel at all due to their condition. Often journeys require several means of transport and transitions from one shipping company to another; therefore, investigation must be done to determine the least reliable portion of the trip, and packing details should revolve around that. Many collection departments contribute to successful object movements. Conservators, registrars, collection managers, photographers, and curators should all be involved and help contribute to clear planning and communication throughout the process. Multiple institutions are usually involved as well. The destination of the shipment must be evaluated so that the objects can be prepared adequately for transitions, including considerations for acclimatization and unpacking. Dissociation Dissociation is considered by the Canadian Conservation Institute as the tenth agent of deterioration. Dissociation is the result of the human error in the system. Preservation and Preventative (or Preventive) Treatments Preservation and preventative (or preventive) treatments are two important aspects within the practice of collections maintenance. Collections maintenance includes the daily care of collections, which is further enhanced by the principles of prevention and preservation. Preservation is the essential responsibility of collection maintenance staff, and includes the creation and maintenance of a protective environment for collections, including those in storage, on display, or in transit. An understanding of preservation principles and preventative treatments can also help collections management professionals to better understand the makeup of their collections, and thus what materials and objects are most at risk at any given time. A collections manager must be aware of all risks to the collection within a given environment and minimize these risks as much as possible.