Moving art is tricky, but if you pack artwork for moving the right way, your pieces will survive the trip without damage. Whether you’re moving a canvas painting, framed art, or delicate framed pieces, using the right packing materials is essential. Art can be expensive, sentimental, or one-of-a-kind, so you need to take extra care when packing it. So knowing how to pack art for moving is no small matter.
The last thing you want is to arrive at your new home only to find broken glass, dented corners, or torn canvas. The good news is that with a little planning and attention to detail, you can safely pack everything so it arrives in perfect shape.
Packing Art For A New Home
Follow this step-by-step guide to make sure your art is protected from the moment you start packing until it’s safely unpacked in your new space.
- Step 1: Gather Materials
- Step 2: Layers of Protection
- Step 3: Packing
- Step 4: Seal the Box and Label
- Step 5: Load the Moving Truck
- Step 6: Check for Damage
Step 1: Gather Your Packing Materials
Before you do anything, make sure you have all the packing materials needed to protect your artwork. Using the right supplies will make a huge difference in whether your art arrives safely or gets damaged along the way. You will need sturdy moving boxes that are slightly larger than your artwork so there is room for layers of protective material.
Packing paper is essential for wrapping artwork before placing it in a box, as it prevents surface scratches. Layers of bubble wrap add extra protection, especially for fragile pieces. If you are packing framed artwork, use cardboard corner protectors to prevent dents and damage to the edges of the frames. Masking tape is useful for marking delicate surfaces, and packing tape is necessary to seal the box securely.
If your artwork has a glass covering, it’s important to take extra precautions. Use masking tape to create an X across the glass. This will help keep it in place and prevent it from shattering if the frame is accidentally dropped or bumped during the move.
For larger or extremely valuable pieces, consider using climate-controlled storage if there will be a delay in unpacking. Extreme temperatures and humidity can warp canvases or cause paint to crack. Gathering all these supplies before you begin ensures you can move quickly and efficiently once you start packing.
Step 2: Protect Framed Artwork with Layers of Protection
Framed artwork is especially vulnerable to damage during a move, so it’s important to use multiple layers of protection. Start by wrapping the framed pieces in packing paper, making sure to cover the entire surface. This creates a buffer between the frame and the bubble wrap, reducing the risk of scratches.
Next, apply cardboard corner protectors to each corner of the frame. Corners are one of the most fragile areas, and these protectors help prevent chipping and denting. Once the frame is covered in packing paper and the corners are secured, wrap the entire piece in layers of bubble wrap.
Bubble wrap absorbs impact, which is crucial for preventing breakage. Be sure to wrap it tightly so that the layers don’t shift, but avoid wrapping it so tightly that you put pressure on the glass or frame. If you are packing multiple framed pieces, avoid stacking them directly on top of each other. Instead, place sheets of packing paper or foam between them to create a cushion.
Before placing the artwork into the moving box, prepare the bottom of the box with extra padding. A layer of bubble wrap or crumpled packing paper at the bottom of the box helps absorb any impact during transport.
Once the framed artwork is inside, add additional padding around the edges to prevent shifting. If there is any empty space, fill it with soft packing materials. This prevents movement inside the box, which is one of the leading causes of damage during a move.
Step 3: Pack a Canvas Painting the Right Way
Unlike framed art, a canvas painting does not have a protective glass covering, making it even more susceptible to damage. To properly pack a canvas painting, start by wrapping it in acid-free packing paper to protect the surface.
This type of paper prevents discoloration and keeps the paint from sticking to other materials. Avoid using newspaper or other printed materials, as the ink can transfer onto the painting. After wrapping the canvas in packing paper, wrap it again in layers of bubble wrap. Since canvases are flexible, they can bend or warp during a move, which makes bubble wrap even more important.
The goal is to create a protective layer that will absorb any bumps or pressure. When wrapping, pay extra attention to the corners, as these are the most likely areas to get damaged.
Once the painting is wrapped, place it into a moving box that is slightly larger than the canvas itself. The extra space allows for additional padding, such as foam sheets or more bubble wrap. Position the painting upright in the box to reduce pressure on the surface. Just like with framed artwork, make sure to fill any gaps with packing paper or padding to prevent movement. Secure the box with packing tape, making sure all edges are properly sealed.
Step 4: Seal the Box and Label It Clearly
Once your artwork is securely packed inside the moving box, the next step is to seal the box properly. Use strong packing tape to seal all openings, ensuring that the box won’t accidentally open during transport. Make sure to reinforce the bottom of the box with extra layers of tape to prevent it from breaking under the weight of the artwork inside.
Labeling the box is just as important as sealing it. Clearly mark the box with “FRAGILE” on all sides to ensure that movers handle it with care. If you have multiple pieces of artwork, label each box with a brief description of what’s inside. This makes it easier to locate and prioritize when unpacking. Mark which side of the box should remain upright, as storing it incorrectly can cause damage.
Step 5: Load Art into the Moving Truck the Right Way
Packing artwork properly is only half the battle; how you load it into the moving truck also matters. Never lay artwork flat in the truck, as it can get crushed under heavier boxes. Instead, always position it upright and place it against a solid surface, such as the wall of the truck or between two sturdy items. This prevents it from shifting during transit.
If possible, use soft padding like blankets or foam sheets to provide additional protection. Avoid placing artwork near sharp objects or items that could puncture the box. If the move will take place in extreme weather conditions, try to keep artwork in a climate-controlled area to prevent heat or moisture damage. Climate-controlled moving trucks or temporary storage units are good options for valuable or delicate pieces.
Step 6: Unpack and Check for Damage
Once you arrive at your new home, unpack artwork carefully. Cut open the boxes slowly, avoiding sharp tools that could accidentally slice into the artwork. Remove each layer of protective material gently, checking for any signs of damage. If everything was packed securely, your artwork should arrive in perfect condition.
Set up your artwork in a safe area before deciding where to hang it permanently. If your new home is still being arranged, keep artwork in an area where it won’t get knocked over or exposed to extreme temperatures. Taking these precautions will ensure that your pieces remain in excellent condition long after the move.
Need Help? Call Smooth Move People!
Packing artwork for moving requires extra care, but following these steps will keep your framed artwork, canvas paintings, and framed pieces safe. Using the right packing materials, sealing the box securely, and positioning it properly in the moving truck all play a role in preventing damage.
Whether you are moving a single painting or an entire collection, taking the time to pack correctly will ensure that your artwork arrives in perfect condition. If you need professional assistance, Smooth Move People can help handle your artwork with care and make your move as stress-free as possible.
