Moving art can be tricky. You need to keep it safe from damage. Using the right materials and methods is key. This guide will show you how.
Key Takeaways
- Use speciality boxes and flat picture boxes to fit art pieces snugly. This prevents damage during the move.
- Wrap each artwork with packing paper first, then bubble wrap. Add cardboard corner protectors for extra safety.
- Label all boxes clearly with “Fragile” and “This Side Up”. Specify room placement like “Living Room” or “Gallery”.
- Ask movers about their experience with art, packing materials used, and if they offer custom crates. Check for insurance options too.
- Load artwork upright in the vehicle using moving blankets for support. Keep small to medium-sized artworks together against larger items.
Essential Packing Materials for Artwork
Packing art requires the right materials to keep it safe. Use quality supplies to protect your pieces during the move.
Specialty boxes and flat picture boxes
Speciality boxes and flat picture boxes are key for safely moving artwork. These boxes fit art pieces snugly to prevent damage during transport. Speciality boxes often come in various sizes, so you can pack small and large artworks without hassle.
Flat picture boxes work well for paintings and framed artwork. They keep items stable by holding them tightly in place. This reduces the risk of scratches or breaks. Always use these types of boxes to ensure your valuable art stays safe on the move.
Bubble wrap and packing paper
Bubble wrap is great for protecting your art. Wrap each piece completely to keep it safe. Use bubble wrap with large bubbles for the best cushion. This helps protect against bumps and drops during transport.
Packing paper also plays an important role. Wrap your artwork with packing paper first, then add a layer of bubble wrap. The paper helps prevent scratches while the bubble wrap provides cushioning.
Always secure both layers with premium packing tape to ensure nothing moves or gets loose during the move.
Plastic wrap and cardboard corner protectors
Plastic wrap keeps artwork safe from dust and moisture. Wrap the art tightly, but avoid over-tightening to prevent damage. Cover the entire surface for full protection.
Cardboard corner protectors shield the delicate corners of frames and canvas. Place them on each corner before wrapping in plastic or bubble wrap. They help prevent dents during transport.
Use these tools together for added safety. This makes sure your artwork stays intact while moving house.
Step-by-Step Guide to Packing Artwork
Take care with each step when packing your artwork. Follow these simple, detailed instructions to keep your art safe during the move.
Securely wrapping and cushioning the artwork
First, use packing paper to wrap the artwork. This helps protect it from scratches and punctures. Cover the art completely with bubble wrap for added cushioning. Ensure you cover all corners well.
Next, add corner protectors to safeguard the edges of paintings or frames. Place a layer of cardboard around it for extra firmness. For very delicate items, consider using moving blankets or Styrofoam inserts for more protection.
Correctly sealing and labeling boxes
Use strong packing tape to seal all box seams. Pressure-sensitive tape works best for this task. Make sure the boxes are sturdy and not overfilled to protect the artwork inside.
Label each box clearly with “Fragile” on all sides. Include details like “This Side Up” and specify room placement, such as “Living Room” or “Gallery.” This helps movers handle the art carefully and place it in the right spot upon arrival.
Tips for loading artwork into the moving vehicle
Place artwork upright in the vehicle. This lowers the risk of damage. Use moving blankets and corner protectors to safeguard pieces.
Keep small- and medium-sized artwork together. Stack them against larger, sturdier items for support. Always load flat picture boxes on their sides like books on a shelf.
Important Questions to Ask Your Mover
Moving artwork requires special care. Ask these questions to your mover to ensure safety.
- Do you have experience moving artwork?
- Some movers specialise in art relocation. This ensures they know how to handle delicate items.
- What packing materials do you use for artwork?
- Good movers use bubble wrap, corner protectors, and specialty boxes. This helps keep your art safe during transport.
- How do you handle framed and unframed pieces?
- Different methods are needed for framed paintings and canvases. Ensure they know the best practices.
- Can you provide custom crates or boxes?
- Artwork needs snug-fitting boxes to prevent damage.
- Do you offer insurance for valuable artworks?
- Insurance can cover any potential damage or loss during the move.
- How will my artwork be stored if needed during the move?
- Safe storage conditions like climate control are crucial for delicate pieces.
- Will my artwork be moved separately from other items?
- Keeping artwork separate reduces the risk of damage from other belongings.
- What steps do you take to protect corners and edges of my artwork?
- Ask if they use cardboard corner protectors and extra padding for safety.
- How do you track the condition of the artwork before and after the move?
- A good mover will check each piece carefully and note any existing damage before packing.
- Can I see references or reviews from past clients who moved valuable items like artwork?
- Checking reviews provides peace of mind about their reliability and quality of service.
Conclusion
Packing art for a move is vital. Using the right materials, like bubble wrap and corner protectors, helps keep artwork safe. Wrapping each piece carefully prevents damage. Sealing and labeling boxes ensures nothing gets lost or mixed up.
Asking movers the right questions can also help ensure your art stays protected.
Have you thought about how to pack your precious pieces? Applying these steps makes moving artwork simple and stress-free. Protecting your art during a move is important for keeping it in top condition over time!
For more information on the right questions to ask when hiring a moving company, particularly for delicate tasks like transporting artwork, be sure to check out our detailed guide here.