Preserving Masterpieces: How to Pack Artwork for Moving

How To Pack Artwork For Moving

Preserving Masterpieces: How to Pack Artwork for Moving

When you purchase a new piece of artwork, you do it with a lot of forethought, planning, and attention. You will want to ensure it fits in well with the rest of your investments and belongings.

That’s why you need to be extra alert when you move such delicate and valuable artwork pieces as well. Be it moving framed artwork or a sculpture, all of them require that you take some additional steps to keep them intact and undamaged during transit.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore step-by-step instructions and expert tips on how to pack artwork for moving safely and securely.

Assess Your Art Collection

Before you begin packing, assess your art collection to determine the size, shape, and fragility of each piece. Identify any high-value or particularly delicate artworks that may require special handling or custom packaging solutions.

Take detailed measurements and photographs of each artwork to document its condition and assist with packing and unpacking.

When you are moving a sculpture, you need to use different packing strategies as opposed to artwork. That’s why the initial assessment is so crucial. It will ensure you don’t rush around on moving day trying to figure out how to move such delicate pieces without harming them.

Gather Packing Supplies

Gather the necessary packing supplies to protect your artwork during transit. Some of these items you might already have at home, as they are essentials. Others you will have to purchase beforehand so you are prepared for moving day.

This may include the following:

  • Acid-free packing paper or tissue paper
  • Bubble wrap or foam wrap
  • Cardboard corners or edge protectors
  • Custom-built wooden crates or art boxes
  • Packing tape and scissors
  • Marker pens for labeling

Prepare the Packing Area

Set up a clean and spacious packing area where you can safely handle and wrap your artwork. Lay down a protective surface, such as a clean blanket or foam padding. This will prevent scratches or damage to the artwork during packing.

Ensure that the area is well-lit and free from clutter to facilitate efficient packing. If you have pets or young children, make sure that they are out of the room when you are packing. This way, they won’t trip over the artwork and break it before you even have a chance to move them.

Additionally, make sure you have insurance set up on the artwork pieces that include travel from one place to another. Call your insurance company and let them know that you will be moving soon.

Wrap the Artwork

Begin by wrapping each piece of artwork in acid-free packing paper or tissue paper to provide a protective barrier against scratches and abrasions. For additional cushioning, wrap the artwork in several layers of bubble wrap or foam wrap.

More is better than less here. If you feel like you are using too much bubble wrap, don’t fret.

Bubble wrap is going to be your savior when it comes to packing pictures for moving and/or sculptures because it provides a higher level of protection than anything else you can muster up.

Secure the wrap with packing tape to keep it in place. Take your time with this step since it is the one where there are most chances of breaking or damaging your valuable artwork.

Protect the Corners and Edges

Attach cardboard edge or corner protectors to the corners of framed artworks to provide extra reinforcement and prevent damage during handling and transit. These protective corners help distribute pressure evenly and minimize the risk of dents or impact damage.

Use Custom-Built Crates or Art Boxes

For large or high-value artworks, consider investing in custom-built wooden crates or art boxes to provide maximum protection during transit. It’s an additional cost, but these boxes are well worth it.

This is because these crates are specially designed to fit the dimensions of each artwork snugly and provide a sturdy barrier against impact and vibration.

Line the interior of the crate with foam padding or custom-cut foam inserts to cushion the artwork and prevent shifting during transport.

Secure Artwork Inside the Crate

Carefully place the wrapped artwork inside a wooden crate or art box, ensuring that it fits snugly and does not have room to move or shift. Fill any empty spaces with additional packing material, such as foam peanuts or packing paper. This provides cushioning and prevents the artwork from shifting during transit.

Seal and Label the Crate

Once the artwork is securely packed inside the crate, seal the crate with packing tape to ensure that it remains closed and secure during transit.

Use marker pens to label the crate with essential information, such as the contents, destination address, and handling instructions. This helps ensure that movers and handlers can identify and handle the crate with care.

Transport with Care

When transporting artwork, handle the crates with extreme care to minimize the risk of damage. Use a dolly or hand truck to move heavy crates safely, and avoid stacking them or placing heavy objects on top.

When hiring professional movers, communicate the importance of careful handling and provide specific instructions for transporting the artwork safely.

Unpack and Inspect Upon Arrival

Upon arrival at your destination, carefully unpack the artwork and inspect each piece for any signs of damage or deterioration. Document any issues or concerns and notify the professional moving company or insurance provider immediately.

Take your time to unpack and display your artwork properly. Ensure it is protected from potential hazards such as direct sunlight, humidity, and temperature fluctuations.

How to Pack Artwork for Moving 101

When you are moving boxes filled with clothes, shoes, or books, they won’t get damaged no matter how rough you are with them. But artwork is a completely different story. It’s important to learn how to pack artwork for moving before attempting it.

If you aren’t up to doing it all yourself, then consider hiring a professional moving company. Ralph’s Moving & Storage has been family-owned and operated in Tucson, Arizona since 1926.

Contact our team to move your artwork to your new house without a hitch.

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