Moving With a Large Art Collection Guide

Mar 21, 2024

Preparing a large art collection for moving is the most strenuous task, requiring precision, proper planning, and the right packing techniques.

It is normal to feel anxious when dealing with precious and delicate artwork, but you should combat your fears and focus on protecting your valuable art items throughout the process.

Whether you have a collection of abstract paintings, treasured sculptures or huge canvases, make sure you create a customised packing and moving strategy ahead of time and arrange necessary supplies accordingly.

Fortunately, here is a complete guide to help protect your large art collection when moving house. The following tips include prop packing, labelling boxes, using proper lifting techniques, and much more.

1. Stock Up on Necessary Supplies

Packing large and delicate art pieces required high-quality packing supplies and the right size of sturdy boxes. You will need:

• Packing paper- It can protect your delicate items during transit.
• Bubble wrap: Provides extra cushioning to your artwork and other belongings.
• Packing Tape: Wraps and seals the packaging or packed boxes.
• Packing Peanuts: Fill empty spaces in the boxes to prevent damage.
• Moving Boxes: Find large boxes and crates that easily fit your art collection. Invest in sturdy ones that can handle bumps during transportation.
• Extra supplies: These include affordable options, such as blankets, bed sheets and towels to keep your items intact.

You can also book expert Removalists Sydney for the safe and sound packing of specialised items like art collection. They will transit of your possessions with extreme care and precision.

2. Prepare your Art Collection for Packing

From huge framed artwork and canvases to picture frames, sculptures, and delicate paintings, each piece in your art collection requires careful preparation for effective packing.

So, it is good to remove delicate parts, such as glass and frames, from the artwork. Of course, they provide a protective shield against dust, dirt, and damage, but glasses could break easily due to mishandling.

Therefore, create a plan to disassemble frames and glasses carefully and pack them separately using quality packing paper and bubble wrap.

If there are no detachable frames, take extra precautions and pack them using multiple layers of packing supplies before putting them into packing boxes.

3. Carefully Pack Your Art Collection

This is where you can unleash your creativity and pack different types and sizes of artwork using the best methods. Here is a quick guide to carefully wrap the following art pieces:

• Large Framed Artwork—If you have framed artwork larger than the standard size, join two cardboard boxes together for easy and damage-free packing. You can also secure the glass frame using painter’s tape, as it won’t leave residue behind. Do not forget to cover it in bubble wrap and packing paper to keep the artwork intact.

• Wrap Unframed Canvases—you’ll need to be extra careful when packing unframed or freshly painted canvas artwork. If you have a new oil painting, pack it in glassine once it dries to prevent any packing material from sticking to the surface. In the final step, wrap your art collection in bubble wrap and seal it with tape.

• Precisely Pack Your Sculptures—These art pieces come in different sizes, shapes, and fragilities. Make sure you tuck foam padding into the openings and wrap each sculpture in double layers of bubble wrap. If you have small sculptures, put them in individual boxes and fill the empty space with packing peanuts. For extra-sized artwork, arrange a customised crate for easy and safe shipping.

• Pack Small Artwork-Use bubble wrap and packing paper to wrap small art collections and put them in a small box or crate. Add crumpled newspaper or foam peanuts to protect them from bumps.

Tip: It is good to have a moving insurance to cover your damages or losses while in transit.

4. Seal the Packed Boxes and Crates

After packing and placing your art collection in the crate or box, come to the next step and seal it up to prevent damage. This step ensures the utmost protection of your valuable art collection throughout the journey.

According to seasoned Removalists Sydney, make sure you close the flaps of your box or crate. When closed, a cardboard box should create an ‘X’ shape. For wooden boxes, ensure all sides are aligned properly.

Use quality packing tape to keep your precious possessions safe and shut inside the boxes. It is good to apply two to three layers of packing tape across all flaps of your boxes. Ensure it meets both ends of a crate, especially when preparing for a long-distance move.

Tip: Make sure you safety tips in mind to avoid moving injuries while carrying heavy boxes and crates.

5. Labelling Is Important For Utmost Safety

Wrap up the process by labelling your packed boxes and crates. You can invest in customised stickers or colour-coded labels to distinguish delicate art collections from other household belongings.

You can also write ‘Handle with Care’ or ‘Delicate Art Collection’ on all sides of your boxes to prevent mishandling or unexpected damage.

6. Hire Professionals For Smooth Removals

If you are still concerned about your expensive and fragile artwork, thoroughly research and find professional Removalists Sydney. Make sure they have experience packing and relocating art pieces with precision. For that, check their license or contact previous customers.

A good company prepares a complete strategy to safely pack and transit delicate items using high-quality supplies and cutting-edge equipment. They can reduce your stress levels related to moving by keeping your art collection safe and sound.

Tips to protect your large art collection when moving:

Wrapping Up

The decision to relocate a large art collection may involve a potential risk of damage due to mishandling. However, the tips and tricks mentioned above in the article will help you protect all types and sizes of delicate pieces without causing any damage. So, follow these hacks and decorate your new home with these art pieces.