Tips For Packing Artwork When Moving

Moving home can be a stressful but exciting time - but there are a couple of things that are always tricky to move—big or bulky items - things like pianos, handmade oversized tables or bed frames. Then there are the more unique and special items - most of the time, sculptures and artwork fall into that category. 

So how can you pack artwork ready to move home - and make sure that it arrives in one piece? 

Right boxes

One of the most common mistakes is packing artwork in boxes that are far too big. Even if you stuff them with bubble wrap or other protective materials, they run the risk of sliding or moving around - which can cause damage to frames. Not to mention that ideally, you don’t want to have any pressure on canvases for the risk of bowing the material. 

In most cases, measuring the artwork and getting specially-made boxes is in the best interest of the piece. While that might sound excessive, it is much better than the alternative of damaged artwork. 

Moving company

When you are booking your move or getting quotes on Allied.com, it is important to mention that you have some artwork that needs to be moved. Then, when you start having more serious conversations about booking the move, they will already have the information and can give you advice to help. 

Surprising your moving company on the day with some high-value or sentimental value items that require special care isn’t good for you or them. So have those conversations early - and take on board any tips they give you. 

Tape “X”

Anything with glass should have an X of tape across it; this little trick has two purposes. One is that it will stop the glass from moving around too much in the frame and potentially chipping in the corners. And the other is that if it should smash, it will hold much of the glass in place. Be sure to choose a tape that is easy to peel off and relatively sturdy though. 

Layers 

For any of the artwork you need to pack, layers are going to be a must. Things with glass should have the taped X, and after that comes paper. Brown paper, or paper without chemicals in it, is preferable to anything else because with newspaper and anything with a print of chemicals, you run the risk of transferring onto photos and artwork. Wrap the artwork in a layer of paper, and when that is secure, add another. After that, a layer of bubble wrap - with the bubbles facing outwards and away from the artwork so that the cushioning is in the right place. 

Box marking 

It is not uncommon for things to get jumbled up and piled up as you move from one place to another - but these are items that you can’t afford to happen to. Make sure that you have clearly marked all of the boxes with exactly what is inside and where the box should be placed in the new home.