How To Pack Pictures For Moving
Moving can be a very overwhelming process in itself, especially if you are packing fragile items. Packing pictures without frames and packing picture frames can be one of the most nerve-wracking tasks due to how delicate they can be. Whether you’re moving to a new home across the city or even perhaps the country, ensure that you pack and move pictures safely. We at XYZ Storage understand the importance of packing delicate items, so we’ve compiled our top packing tips for moving pictures, so you can pack and move them with ease.
The Importance of Knowing How to Pack Pictures for Moving
So why does packing pictures without frames or packing picture frames require special attention? Packing and moving art safely is important otherwise improper packing of them can lead to damage while in transit. Therefore, following the steps we’re going to outline below can minimize damage when moving paintings or packing artwork ensuring that they arrive at your end destination in top condition.
What Materials You’ll Need to Pack Pictures
The first step to ensuring your packing and moving pictures safely is to gather all the necessary materials you will need. This is to ensure that you have a much smoother process by having the right supplies on hand for packing delicate items. Here’s a list to help you get started for packing delicate items:
- Corner protectors
- Packing tape or masking tape
- Bubble wrap
- Marker for labeling
- Packing peanuts
- Crumpled paper
- Foam boards for extra protection
- Sturdy boxes, specifically designed for holding pictures and artwork
To help make this process much more convenient, our XYZ Storage self-storage facilities offer packing and moving supplies available for purchase.
Top Packing Tips for Moving Pictures
Here are our top packing tips for moving pictures, including how to pack paintings with frames, packing pictures without frames, and packing other delicate items.
Packing Pictures With Frames
- Choose the Right Box: Select a box that is slightly larger than the picture frame. Specialty boxes designed for artwork are ideal as they offer better protection.
- Wrap the Picture: Begin by wrapping the picture in packing paper. Place a layer of bubble wrap over the paper, ensuring it covers the entire frame. Secure the wrap with packing tape.
- Protect the Corners: Use corner protectors to safeguard the edges of the frame. These can be made from cardboard or purchased pre-made.
- Create a Cushion: Line the bottom of the box with crumpled packing paper or foam for added cushioning.
- Place the Picture in the Box: Carefully place the wrapped picture in the box, ensuring it fits snugly. Fill any gaps with more packing paper or foam to prevent movement.
- Seal and Label: Seal the box securely with packing tape. Clearly label it as “Fragile” and indicate which side should face up.
Packing Pictures Without Frames
- Protect the Artwork: For pictures without frames, use glassine paper to wrap the artwork. This paper prevents smudging and sticking.
- Use Foam Boards: Sandwich the artwork between two pieces of foam board to provide rigidity and protection.
- Wrap in Bubble Wrap: Cover the foam board sandwich with bubble wrap, securing it with packing tape.
- Box it Up: Place the wrapped artwork in a sturdy box, filling any empty spaces with packing paper to prevent movement.
- Seal and Label: Secure the box with packing tape and label it appropriately.
Packing Other Delicate Items
Delicate items like antique frames, oil paintings, and other valuable artwork require extra care. Here are some additional tips:
- Use Double Boxing: For extremely delicate items, consider double boxing. Place the wrapped picture in one box, then place that box inside a larger box filled with packing material.
- Avoid Direct Contact: For oil paintings and other sensitive artwork, avoid direct contact with packing materials. Use glassine paper as a protective barrier.
- Consult Professionals: If you’re unsure about packing a particularly valuable or delicate piece, consult with professional packers or art movers.
Tips for Moving Paintings and Artwork
Moving paintings and moving artwork requires more than just careful packing. It’s important to keep your paintings, photos, and artwork upright and never flat so it can reduce the risk of damage from pressure and shifting while in transit. Another tip is to be aware of the temperature while in transit if possible. When transporting framed artwork in a climate-controlled environment it is important to prevent damage from temperature and humidity fluctuations. You should keep this in mind, especially if they will be in transit for a long period. Lastly, you want to ensure that everything is well-secured and free from any heavy items that could fall and damage your pictures.
Commonly Asked Questions
Here are some of the commonly asked questions when it comes to packing and moving pictures:
How do I pack a lot of pictures for moving?
When packing multiple pictures to move, it’s important to keep them organized. For instance, group smaller or similar pictures together while using the appropriate packing materials. Don’t forget to label everything and create an inventory to keep track of each painting so you don’t misplace anything.
How to pack picture frames when moving house?
Packing picture frames requires you to wrap each frame with wrapping paper and bubble wrap with care. You can also use corner protectors and place them in a box cushioned. Once the frames are packed in the box it’s important to label the box as “fragile” so those handling them handle them with care.
How to pack framed pictures for shipping?
When shipping frames it’s very important to double box them for protection. Start by wrapping the picture using corner protectors before placing it into a box. Then you can go ahead and place it in an additional box for more protection.
How do I protect my photos when moving?
Protect photos by placing them in plastic sleeves or using acid-free paper. Store them in a rigid, waterproof container to prevent bending and moisture damage.
How XYZ Storage Can Help
Whether you’re looking for short-term storage during your move or a long-term solution, our XYZ Storage team got you covered! Our state-of-the-art facilities are across Toronto and the GTA: Toronto Downtown, Toronto West, Toronto Midtown, Scarborough, and Etobicoke. Our facilities are secure, temperature-controlled, and convenient access, so you can feel confident storing your photos and precious artwork with us. Let us help make your move as smooth and stress-free as possible. Happy moving!
