How to pack artwork for moving is more than just putting it in a box it’s about protecting pieces that may hold both sentimental and monetary value. When you pack art incorrectly, you risk scratches, broken glass, dents, or even moisture damage that can ruin a cherished piece forever. Whether you’re packing art for moving across town or across the country, the right method keeps your pieces safe from bumps, shakes, and climate changes. From fine paintings to packing photo frames, every detail matters. For those who prefer expert handling, Chamomile Go offers professional packing services in Sherman Oaks, ensuring your artwork arrives in perfect condition without the stress.
Why Proper Artwork Packing Matters
When it comes to packing artwork, the right method makes all the difference. Artwork, whether it’s a family heirloom, a valuable painting, or a treasured print, carries both sentimental and financial value. Improper handling can lead to scratches, smudges, tears, or even irreversible damage. By taking time to pack art for moving the right way, you protect its beauty, value, and emotional meaning for years to come. Professional packing art for moving also ensures it survives the bumps, vibrations, and temperature changes during transit without harm
Protecting Sentimental and Financial Value
Art is more than decoration it’s often a reflection of personal history or a significant investment. Damaging a painting, sculpture, or print can mean losing irreplaceable memories or substantial monetary worth. That’s why packing artwork with the right materials, like acid-free paper, bubble wrap, and sturdy crates, is so important. A well-packed piece can handle long-distance travel, climate shifts, and the natural movement that happens during a move without losing its condition or value
Common Mistakes People Make When Moving Artwork
Many people underestimate how delicate art pieces are, leading to avoidable damage. Common mistakes include using newspaper (which can transfer ink), taping directly onto the art or glass, and skipping protective layers. Others use boxes that are too large, allowing the artwork to shift inside during transport. Overlooking the difference between packing artwork and general household items can be costly. Each artwork piece deserves specialized attention when packing art for moving to ensure it stays safe and secure
Difference Between Framed and Unframed Artwork Packing
Framed artwork needs extra care to protect both the frame and the art inside. Start by placing corner protectors on the frame, then wrap the piece in bubble wrap, securing it without tape touching the surface. For glass-front frames, apply painter’s tape in an “X” shape to reduce the risk of shattering during transit. On the other hand, unframed artwork should be covered with acid-free paper or glassine, then placed between sturdy cardboard sheets before wrapping. The approach to packing art for moving changes depending on whether it’s framed or unframed, but both require careful handling and high-quality materials
You may read How To Pack Paintings For Moving?
Essential Packing Supplies for Artwork
When packing artwork or packing art for moving, having the right materials is key to preventing damage:
- Bubble wrap for cushioning
- Packing paper for initial wrapping
- Corner protectors to safeguard frame edges
- Glassine paper to cover art surfaces without sticking
- Packing tape for secure sealing
- Stretch wrap for extra protection
- Foam boards to prevent bending
- Sturdy boxes for safe transport
Tools to Make the Process Easier
- Measuring tape – ensures correct box size
- Utility knife – for clean cutting of materials
- Labels – to organize items
- Fragile stickers – to alert movers of delicate contents
How to Pack Artwork for Moving in Six Easy Steps
Whether you’re packing photo frames for a local move or preparing to pack art for long-distance shipping, following a careful process helps protect your pieces from scratches, dents, and breakage. Here’s a simple six-step guide:
Step 1: Clean and Prepare the Artwork
Before you pack art, gently dust the frame, glass, or canvas with a soft cloth. Removing dirt and fingerprints prevents them from causing marks during transit. If the piece is especially valuable, wear cotton gloves to avoid transferring oils from your hands
Step 2: Wrap Artwork with Acid-Free Paper or Glassine
Acid-free paper or glassine creates a safe barrier against moisture, dust, and smudges. Make sure the entire surface is covered, especially the corners and edges. For packing photo frames, fold the paper neatly around the frame to avoid leaving gaps
Step 3: Add Protective Layers like Bubble Wrap and Corner Guards
Once wrapped, add a layer of bubble wrap for cushioning. Use corner protectors to prevent frame edges from denting or cracking if bumped. This extra layer is essential when you pack art with delicate glass or intricate wooden frames
Step 4: Place in a Custom-Sized Box or Crate
Select a box or crate that’s just slightly larger than the artwork. Too much space allows shifting, while a tight fit can cause pressure damage. For packing photo frames, slim but sturdy boxes are ideal to keep items upright and secure
Step 5: Fill Empty Spaces with Cushioning Material
Fill any gaps inside the box with packing peanuts, crumpled packing paper, or foam inserts. This stops movement during transport and absorbs impact if the box is accidentally dropped or stacked
Step 6: Label the Box “FRAGILE” and Indicate “This Side Up”
Once sealed, clearly label each box. Adding “FRAGILE” ensures movers treat it with care, and “This Side Up” helps maintain the correct orientation, especially for framed glass pieces that should never be stored flat
How to Pack Framed Artwork for Moving
When packing framed artwork or preparing to pack art with glass fronts, extra care is essential to avoid cracks, scratches, and breakage.
Special Attention for Glass Frames
Before wrapping, apply masking tape in an “X” pattern across the glass. This helps hold the pieces together if the glass breaks, reducing the risk of damage to the artwork inside.
Adding Cardboard Cutouts for Extra Glass Protection
Cut a piece of sturdy cardboard slightly larger than the glass surface and place it over the taped area. This adds a protective shield against impact during handling and transit.
Avoiding Pressure Points
When you pack art with frames, ensure there’s even cushioning on all sides. Uneven pressure can cause cracks in the glass or stress on the frame corners, especially with ornate or vintage designs.
Using Mirror Boxes or Wooden Crates for Large Pieces
For oversized framed art, use adjustable mirror boxes or custom-built wooden crates. These provide a snug, secure fit and extra structural strength, keeping your artwork safe from bumps, stacking, and shifts during the move.
Choose Chamomile Go for Packing Services in Sherman Oaks
When it comes to packing artwork and preparing to pack art for a safe move, Chamomile Go is the trusted choice for professional packing service in Sherman Oaks. Our team specializes in handling delicate, high-value items such as fine art, framed photographs, and valuable collectibles with precision and care.
With years of experience in the moving and packing industry, we understand the materials, tools, and techniques required to keep your artwork safe from start to finish. From acid-free wrapping to custom crates, we treat every piece as if it were our own.
We proudly serve Sherman Oaks and the surrounding Los Angeles areas, ensuring local residents have access to professional, reliable, and detail-oriented packing services in Sherman Oaks.
Book your professional packing service in Sherman Oaks with Chamomile Go today and let us protect your art so it arrives at its new home in perfect condition.
Final Thoughts
Careful packing is the key to keeping your artwork safe, whether you’re moving across town or across the country. Using the right materials and techniques ensures your pieces arrive without scratches, cracks, or other damage. While some people prefer a DIY approach, it’s important to honestly assess whether you have the time, tools, and experience to handle fragile and valuable items.
If you feel unsure or overwhelmed, it’s always safer to rely on professionals. Chamomile Go offers expert packing services in Sherman Oaks and surrounding Los Angeles areas, with proven experience in handling everything from framed art to rare collectibles. For more tips and guidance, check out our related moving and packing guides or contact us today to make sure your art is protected every step of the way.
FAQs
1. What Materials Do I Need For Packing Artwork?
You’ll need acid-free paper or glassine, bubble wrap, corner protectors, sturdy boxes or crates, packing tape, and cushioning materials like foam boards or packing peanuts. These protect the artwork from scratches, moisture, and impact during the move.
2. How Do I Pack Framed Artwork With Glass?
Apply masking tape in an “X” pattern across the glass to prevent shattering, add a cardboard cutout over the glass for extra protection, then wrap the frame in bubble wrap and place it in a custom-sized box or mirror box.
3. Can I Use Regular Boxes For Packing Art?
Regular boxes are fine for small, lightweight pieces if reinforced properly, but for valuable or large artwork, custom crates or mirror boxes provide much better protection.
4. How Do I Pack Unframed Artwork?
Cover it with acid-free paper or glassine, place it between sturdy cardboard sheets, and wrap it in bubble wrap before boxing. This prevents bending, moisture damage, and surface scratches.
5. Should I Hire Professionals For Packing Artwork?
If your artwork is valuable, oversized, or fragile, professional movers with art-handling experience can ensure it’s packed with the right materials and techniques for safe transport.
