Moving artwork and framed pictures requires special attention to prevent damage during transit. Whether you’re relocating precious family photos, valuable paintings, or simply decorative items, the right packing techniques can safeguard these treasures. Excalibur Moving & Storage will share how to ensure your framed pieces arrive at your new home in perfect condition.
Gather Necessary Packing Supplies
It is important to have the needed supplies on hand when packing your fragile painting and pictures frames. Some of the necessary supplies are:
• Packing Paper: Start with soft packing paper to wrap the items.
• Bubble Wrap: Provides cushioning and protection against impacts.
• Painter’s Tape: Use this to make an ‘X’ over glass surfaces to strengthen them and to hold together broken pieces if any damage occurs.
• Cardboard: Use flat pieces to create a protective barrier over the fronts and backs of your framed items.
• Mirror Boxes: These specially designed boxes accommodate different sizes and provide protection for framed works.
• Packing Tape: For securing wrapped items and sealing boxes.
• Marker Pens: For labeling boxes with handling instructions and contents.
Prepare Your Art Pieces for Packing
Next you will want to take the time to pack your pieces properly. Some of the steps you will want to take are:
• Clean the Glass: Wipe down the glass of any framed pictures with a cloth to remove fingerprints and dust that could cause scratches during movement.
• Secure the Glass: Apply painter’s tape in a star pattern across the glass to add strength and prevent shattering.
• Wrap with Paper: Encase each framed item in packing paper before adding further layers of protection to cushion and prevent scratches.
Wrap Artwork for Maximum Protection
• Bubble Wrap: After the initial layer of packing paper, wrap the piece in bubble wrap, securing it with tape. Ensure the corners are well protected as these are most susceptible to knocks and bumps.
• Cardboard Layering: Add an extra layer of protection by cutting pieces of cardboard to the size of the frame and placing them on the front and back.
Box Your Artwork Properly
It is equally important to find the right box for your paintings and artwork so it is properly packed. Some tips to find the right bock for your pictures and paintings are:
• Choose a Box: Select a mirror box slightly larger than your wrapped item. If moving multiple smaller frames, they can be packed together using dividers.
• Padding: Fill any gaps in the box with crumpled packing paper or additional bubble wrap to prevent movement.
• Seal and Label: Firmly close the box with packing tape. Clearly label the box as “Fragile – Artwork” and indicate which side should be up.
Loading & Transport
Your final step is loading and transportation of your pictures and paintings. With the help of a professional moving service some tips to ensure your pictures are safe are:
• Load Last, Unload First: Ensure that artwork is loaded last onto the moving truck and offloaded first to minimize time spent under other items.
• Keep Flat: Store artwork vertically like books and avoid laying them flat, which can put pressure on the frames.
• Temperature Considerations: If possible, transport artwork in a climate-controlled environment to protect against extreme temperatures and humidity.
Local & Long Distance, Residential & Commercial Moving in Los Angeles County, CA & Beyond
By following these tips, you can move your paintings, pictures, and framed memories with confidence, knowing they’re well-protected every step of the way. Proper packing and handling are key to preserving the integrity and beauty of your artwork during a move. For quality moving services, contact Excalibur Moving & Storage today.