When it comes to relocation, there is no doubt – packing gets the best of all of us. It doesn’t matter if it’s a long distance move or a local Chicago relocation. Packing takes up most of our time and it can be quite a tedious task. On top of that, if you have some expensive art pieces among your belongings, it can make the task even harder.
So, how to pack and move your expensive art pieces? Here are some tips to protect and relocate your art collection safely.
Have the Right Supplies
Whenever you are relocating, and especially when you have fragile pieces like art, you have to ask yourself what moving supplies you need. Having the right items will help protect your artwork. We recommend packing tape, packing peanuts and paper, or painter’s tape, and bubble wrap. If you need guidance, you can always ask your Chicago movers for advice.
Additional items to consider include sturdy boxes or wooden crates specifically designed for art, foam boards for extra cushioning, corner protectors for framed pieces, and labels for marking the boxes as fragile. For especially valuable or large items, custom crates can provide optimal protection. Investing in high-quality supplies is essential, as the right materials can significantly reduce the risk of damage during transport.
Prep Your Art
Every art piece that will go into the box has to be prepared carefully. Use glass line paper to protect the art pieces without glass in the front, and for those that have glass on the frames, make sure to protect the glass first. With sculptures and pottery, make sure to inspect the shape and see what the weak points are to protect them. Here you will need lots of bubble wrap and cushioning to fill the gaps.
For framed art, apply painter’s tape in an “X” pattern across the glass surface to prevent shattering during the move. This step minimizes the risk of broken glass scattering inside the box and potentially damaging the artwork. For unframed pieces, wrap them in acid-free glassine paper to protect against smudges, scratches, or exposure to moisture. For sculptures, focus on wrapping each delicate part individually before securing the entire piece. Use foam pads or packing peanuts to provide additional support in the box.
Pack Carefully and Gently
After you carefully wrap and protect all the nooks, crannies, and corners of your artwork, place it in the box filled with packing paper. When you make sure the piece is properly secured, close it and mark it as fragile. When placing artwork into the box, ensure there is no direct contact between the artwork and the box walls. Add padding at the bottom, sides, and top of the box to prevent movement.
If you are packing multiple pieces in one box, use foam boards or cardboard dividers to separate them and avoid friction. Seal the box with strong packing tape, and write “FRAGILE” in bold letters on all sides. Including arrows to indicate which side should remain upright is also helpful, especially for sculptures or paintings with specific orientations.
Transporting the Artwork
Once packed, handle your art boxes with extra care. For framed artwork, ensure the boxes are stacked vertically rather than lying flat, as this position reduces pressure on the glass and frame. For sculptures or oddly shaped pieces, secure them tightly in the vehicle to prevent shifting during transit.
If you are moving long-distance or shipping the artwork separately, consider purchasing additional insurance to cover potential damage. Communicate clearly with your moving company about the contents of these boxes and emphasize the need for careful handling. If possible, transport smaller valuable pieces personally in your car to minimize risk.
Need professional Help?
If you still feel weary and not confident about prepping the artwork on your own, you can always contact your movers to do it for you. Professional packers will make sure your expensive pieces will be carefully packed and prepared for the relocation day.
Professional art movers specialize in handling delicate and valuable items. They use custom materials and techniques tailored to the unique needs of each piece, ensuring maximum safety. Many companies also offer climate-controlled transportation, which is ideal for preserving artwork sensitive to temperature and humidity changes. Hiring professionals can save you time and provide peace of mind, especially if you have an extensive or irreplaceable collection.
Additional Tips for Moving Expensive Art Pieces
- Document Your Collection: Take photos of each piece before packing to have a visual record of their condition. This is useful for insurance claims in case of damage.
- Label Clearly: Clearly mark boxes containing artwork as “Fragile” and indicate which side is up. Detailed labeling helps movers handle your pieces appropriately.
- Consider Storage Needs: If your move involves temporary storage, ensure the facility is climate-controlled to protect your artwork from environmental damage.
- Unpack with Care: Once you arrive at your destination, unpack your art pieces carefully. Check for any damage and set them up in a stable, secure location.
Conclusion
Packing and moving expensive art pieces require careful planning, the right supplies, and meticulous attention to detail. By prepping your artwork properly, using high-quality materials, and handling the packing process gently, you can ensure your collection arrives safely at its new home. If the task feels overwhelming, enlisting the help of professional movers can provide additional security and expertise. With these tips in hand, you can protect your valuable art and enjoy a stress-free relocation. Wishing you a successful move and a smooth transition to your new space!
