Art Movers NYC

Tips for Moving and Transporting Your Fine Art

Americans have approximately six billion paintings, photographs, sculptures, and other fine works of art adorning their walls and halls, according to Robert Klonoski, a contributor to artbusiness.com. When it comes time to relocate, these art collections require special care. It’s advisable that you hire a professional relocation service, like Imperial Moving & Storage, that is accustomed to handling fine art, especially if your collection contains large sculptures or particularly delicate artworks.

If, however, you choose to do some or all of the packing and transportation yourself, here are some tips you should consider when doing so:

• For extra protection, before wrapping art that is covered with glass, use painter’s tape to tape across the front of the glass with an X. If for some reason the glass should crack or shatter, this will help to keep it in place so that the broken pieces do not cut, scratch, or otherwise harm the art underneath.
• To reduce static cling, use a piece of heavy cardboard, foam, or mat board to cover the front of glass-framed artwork before bubble wrapping it.
• Use adjustable size picture boxes and insert only one item per box. Appropriately sized boxes reduce movement and thereby, the risk of damage to your pieces.
• Be sure to transport fine art upright. Do not lay art on its side or flat in the truck. Also, be careful not to put anything on top of it that may crush it and cause damage.
• Make sure your artwork is secure in the truck so that it won’t fall over in the case of sudden stops or bumps along the way.
• Avoid packing materials that contain acid, as these may damage artwork composed of specific materials.
• Wrap sculptures thoroughly in bubble wrap and seal with packing tape. If possible, take apart your sculptures for easier transport and wrap the bottom section an additional time or two.
• If possible, transport sculptures in crates padded by foam, not in traditional moving boxes. Use a crate that is slightly larger than the piece to allow room for additional padding.
• Create a moisture barrier to protect against humidity. To do so, line your crate or box with bubble wrap or insulation paper before placing your art inside.
• Write “Fragile” on all boxes or crates that contain fine art.

Because your fine art collection is valuable both regarding its cost and its sentimental value to you, be sure to protect it with insurance before your move. Survey your art collection, inventory it, and make a note of any existing damage, so you’ll know if the damage occurred during the relocation. Then, follow the tips and trick above to safely move your collection from one home to the next. If you’d rather entrust your artwork to a skilled and knowledgeable New York moving company, give Imperial Moving and Storage a call! We have the skillset, tools, and equipment to pack, move, and deliver your art with ease. Request your free quote now!