Packing Like a Pro: How To Pack Artwork For Moving

Artworks – those cherished paintings, sculptures, and family heirlooms – add a touch of personality and beauty to our lives. But when faced with a move, the thought of transporting these irreplaceable treasures can be daunting. Fear not, art enthusiasts! This comprehensive guide equips you with the knowledge and techniques to pack your artwork for a move, ensuring it arrives at your new destination safe and sound.

Understanding the Threats: What Can Jeopardize Your Artwork During a Move

​Before diving into packing techniques, let's identify the potential adversaries that might threaten your artwork during a travel:

• ​Bumps and Jolts: The jostling and vibrations experienced during transport can put stress on frames, potentially causing them to warp or crack. Additionally, unsecured artwork within boxes can bang against each other, resulting in scratches, chips, or even broken pieces.
• Moisture and Humidity: Fluctuations in temperature and humidity can be detrimental to artwork. Exposure to moisture can cause warping of canvases, mildew growth on frames, and even ink bleed on paper-based artwork.
• Crushing Weight: Stacking heavy boxes on top of artwork-laden boxes can exert immense pressure, damaging frames and potentially puncturing canvases.

Packing Strategies for Different Types of Artwork: 

​Now that we know the enemies, let's explore the best ways to pack different types of artwork for your move:

Framed Artwork:

• The Mighty Mirror Box: For framed paintings and photographs, invest in sturdy mirror boxes specifically designed for transporting artwork. These boxes offer extra padding and protection compared to regular cardboard boxes.

• ​Plastic Wrap Protection: Before placing the artwork in the box, wrap it securely with plastic wrap. This creates a moisture barrier and protects the surface from scratches during handling.
• Bubble Wrap Bliss: Fill the gaps between the artwork and the box with bubble wrap. Ensure the bubble wrap completely surrounds the artwork, providing a cushion against bumps and shocks.

• ​Frame Defense: For valuable or fragile artwork, consider adding additional corner protectors to the frame for enhanced security.

Unframed Artwork:

• ​Cardboard Companions: For unframed artwork like posters, prints, or delicate textiles, use large, flat cardboard boxes. Ensure the box is big enough to accommodate the artwork without folding or bending it.
• Acid-Free Paper Power: Line the inside of the box with acid-free paper. This prevents the paper from reacting with the artwork over time, which can cause discoloration or damage.
• The Interleaving Technique: Place multiple pieces of artwork between sheets of acid-free paper. This prevents them from rubbing against each other and incurring scratches or tears.
• Secure Sealing: Seal the box securely with packing tape to prevent the contents from shifting during transport.

Sculptures and 3D Artwork:

• ​Box It Up: For smaller sculptures, pack them in sturdy boxes with ample padding using bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or foam packing materials.
• Blanket Buddies: Wrap larger sculptures or those with delicate features in moving blankets to protect them from scratches and bumps.
• Base Support: Provide additional support for the base of sculptures to prevent them from toppling over during transport. Consider using packing peanuts or crumpled packing paper to fill the space around the base within the box.
• Label It Clearly: Clearly label boxes containing sculptures as "Fragile – Handle with Care" to ensure movers exercise extra caution.

Beyond the Box: Additional Tips for Artful Travelers 

• ​Document Everything: Before packing, take photographs of each artwork, capturing its condition from all angles. This documentation is invaluable in case of any damage during the move.
• Consider Climate Control: For particularly valuable or irreplaceable artwork, inquire about climate-controlled moving services. This minimizes the risk of damage caused by fluctuations in temperature and humidity.
• Hire Professionals: If you're dealing with very large, heavy, or fragile artwork, consider hiring professional art movers. They have the expertise, equipment, and experience to handle your precious pieces with the utmost care.

Unpacking with Care: A Fresh Start for Your Art 

​Once you've reached your new destination, unpack your artwork with care. Open boxes in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or moisture. Allow framed artwork to adjust to the new environment for 24-48 hours before hanging it on the wall.

​Conclusion: A Move that Makes a Statement

​By following these packing strategies and taking the necessary precautions, you can ensure your cherished artwork arrives at your new home safe and sound. Remember, a little planning and preparation go a long way in protecting your artistic treasures. So, pack with confidence, embrace the adventure of moving, and know that your beloved artworks will soon be gracing the walls of your new creative haven.