If you’re moving to a new home, one of the trickier items to pack and move is your artwork. Whether it’s framed family photos or an expensive oil painting, it’s critical to handle them carefully. No one likes damaged art or broken glass! Here are some suggestions on how to pack and move artwork.

Smaller Framed Photos and Artwork

Wrap each one individually in packing paper. You could also use clean linens. Use bubble wrap to protect ornate frames. Tape the packing material and then place them in a sturdy box. The box should be large enough for the frames to stand on their edge to support their weight. Breakage happens if the frames shift or move within the box. If they are loose, add some extra packing paper or wrap to keep them tight.

Larger Artwork

Larger pieces need special attention. I recommend placing them front side down on a generous amount of packing paper and wrapping and taping them up like a present. You may want to consider foam wrap and corner protectors for more delicate and valuable frames. Whenever possible, slide each piece into a specially-sized picture/mirror box. Alternatively, you can create a box. Measure and cut large pieces of cardboard to fit your artwork, ensuring that you fold and tape it securely around the artwork.

Handle Carefully

Regardless of the size of your artwork, write FRAGILE on several sides of the box and label it with its location in the new home (e.g., living room ). Place these pieces in the moving truck, on their edges (like books on a shelf). You don’t want to stack anything on top of them!

Packing artwork can be time-consuming, but adding extra packing materials and securing important pieces is critical because accidents can happen. Please read my article 10 Tips to Successfully Pack Moving Boxes for more move preparation tips.

Remember, the Out of Chaos team can help you pack and move artwork and all aspects of your household move. View our Move Management Services or contact us for more information.

Image by Lefty Kasdaglis on Unsplash.