How to Move Artwork

Moving artwork is a task that requires close attention to small details. Any mistake in the moving process can lead to permanently damaged artwork, and unlike other items, valuable artwork can't be as easily replaced or replaced at all. It may be a good idea to consider hiring movers to relocate artwork, or if the artwork is extremely valuable to hire a moving company that specializes in just moving art. Moving companies and art packing specialists both have the extra materials and experience needed to thoroughly pack your artwork.

If you don't want to bother with a mover or simply can't afford it, you can pack the artwork yourself. It will just take some time and attention to complete the process effectively. Before you know it you'll be hanging up your treasured items up in their spots in your new home. The following tips will help you pack your artwork to ship to its next destination.

Tips for Packing Framed Paintings 

• To pack framed artwork you'll need to get strong packing boxes. There are boxes available on market that are made just for mirrors and framed paintings, so it should not be difficult to find this item. 
• You will also need bubble wrap, masking tape and lots of newspaper, tissue paper, linens or any other items that could work as cushioning. 
• If you painting is covered in glass, you will need to secure the glass to ensure it doesn't break. You can do this by using the masking tape to make an 'x' across the front of the painting. This will avoid the glass from sliding around during the move. 
• You will need to wrap your artwork by using bubble wrap. Make sure every corner is thoroughly covered with bubble wrap. 
• Secure the bubble wrap with masking tape. 
• In order to provide cushion for the painting in the box first put down extra filler on the bottoms of the box. Then put in the painting. 
• Next fill any extra space in the box with filler. 
• After you close the box tape all of the edges to make the box extra secure for moving. 

Tips for Moving Unframed Paintings 

• You will need flat pieces of cardboard, paper, masking tape and corrugated cardboard.  
• It is best not to roll fine art work. There is chance the corners could get bent. The artwork also could get creased permanently damaging the image.
• With paper create triangles that will fit around corners of cardboard.  
• Place painting artwork between two piece of cardboard that covers the entire artwork. 
• Tape triangles onto all four corners of the cardboard. 
• Tape all four sides of the cardboard. 
• Place between two pieces of corrugated cardboard then tape the corrugated cardboard together. If corrugated cardboard is not available, you can use a mirror box instead. 

Tips for Transporting Artwork 

• Make sure to have this side up arrows and fragile marked on all boxes containing artwork. 
• Never lay artwork flat with the image exposed. This could easily lead to damage if heavy objects are placed on top.
• Supervise and instruct movers when they are moving the artwork. 
• If you are moving yourself, make sure to place painting in a safe place. Shielding the boxes with artworks behind a mattress or cushions is a safe method.