Moving valuable artwork requires careful planning and proper materials to avoid damage. Finding a reliable moving crew that understands how to handle delicate items is just the first step – you’ll also need to prepare your paintings before the movers arrive properly. I’ve packed dozens of paintings through multiple moves and learned some hard lessons. Trust me, doing this right will save you heartache (and money) later on.
Necessary Supplies
To pack paintings for moving, gather the necessary supplies such as sturdy cardboard boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape, and corner protectors. Begin by selecting boxes that are slightly larger than the paintings themselves to allow space for padding. Wrap each painting individually in several layers of bubble wrap, ensuring all surfaces are covered and protected. Secure the bubble wrap with packing tape to hold it in place.
Place corner protectors on each corner of the painting to prevent damage from bumps or drops during transit. Line the bottom of the box with packing material, then carefully place the wrapped paintings inside, making sure they fit snugly. Fill any remaining gaps with additional packing material to prevent shifting. Close the box securely with packing tape before labeling it as fragile.
Preparing the Paintings
When preparing paintings for moving, first get all the dust off with a soft cloth. Never use water or cleaning solutions – they’ll ruin your artwork instantly! Check for any flaking paint or loose bits and call a professional if you spot trouble. For delicate pieces, place acid-free paper directly on the surface before wrapping.
Make sure everything is completely dry to prevent mold. I’ve moved dozens of paintings, and these simple steps have saved my collection every time. Don’t let careless packing destroy what might have survived decades already!
Securing the Frames
Examine the stability of the frames by gently applying pressure to each corner and side to confirm they are secure before moving the paintings. When securing the frames for packing, follow these steps:
- Inspect for Loose Fastenings: Check for any loose screws or nails that could cause the frame to shift during transit.
- Apply Supports: Use painter’s tape to fortify the corners of the frames, ensuring they stay intact.
- Add Corner Protectors: Attach foam or cardboard corner protectors to shield the frame from impact.
- Use Bubble Wrap: Wrap the entire frame with bubble wrap to provide protection against scratches and minor bumps.
Wrapping and Padding Techniques
Begin by selecting high-grade packing materials such as bubble wrap, packing paper, and foam pads to guarantee maximum protection for your paintings. Lay the painting on a clean, flat surface and gently cover it with a layer of packing paper. Next, wrap the painting with bubble wrap, completely covering all edges.
Place foam pads on both sides of the painting before securing everything with tape for extra protection. Pay special attention to corners and any raised elements on the frame. Add another layer of bubble wrap around the entire package for additional cushioning. This careful wrapping approach creates protective barriers that absorb shocks and vibrations during transport.
Packing and Labeling Instructions
To guarantee the safe transport of your wrapped and padded paintings, following proper packing and labeling instructions for added security during the moving process is essential. Here are the steps to pack and label your paintings effectively:
- Use robust boxes: Select boxes slightly larger than your paintings for padding.
- Protect with bubble wrap: Wrap each painting with multiple layers of bubble wrap to cushion against impacts.
- Secure with packing tape: Seal the bubble-wrapped paintings with packing tape to keep the wrapping in place.
- Label clearly: Mark the boxes as ‘Handle with Care – Artwork Inside’ to ensure careful handling during transportation.
Don’t risk watching a mover drop your grandmother’s portrait or that expensive piece you saved up for! Take an afternoon to pack your artwork using these techniques properly. Consider talking to professional art handlers for truly valuable or irreplaceable pieces – the extra cost is worth it. Your paintings have probably survived longer than most of your furniture, so make sure they survive this move too!
Other Related Articles: