Art is a representation of our deepest thoughts and emotions; it is a reflection of who we are and our worldview. With that said, artworks become valuable possessions that need to be handled with utmost care. They can be pretty fragile and require special attention to ensure they are not damaged during transportation.
If you’re relocating or shipping your pieces to a new location, this guide will help you pack your artwork professionally and correctly.
1. Gather your Materials
Before you begin packing your artwork, it is essential to gather all the necessary materials you’ll need to achieve a successful move. You’ll need acid-free packing paper, bubble wrap, tape, a box cutter, and sturdy boxes or crates. Ensure that the box or crate is bigger than the artwork you intend to pack, leaving enough space to add packing materials.
2. Wrap the Artwork
Once you have gathered your packing materials, the next step is to wrap the artwork with acid-free packing paper. It’s best to wrap the artwork tightly in a few layers of packing paper to prevent any damage from scratches or smudges.
Next, wrap the artwork with a layer of bubble wrap, paying attention to areas of protrusion such as corners and edges. Add additional layers of bubble wrap to these areas, as it’s the most critical part of the artwork you’re working to protect.
3. Add Protection
To keep your artwork from moving around the box during transportation, you’ll need to add some protection. Use foam or inflated bubble wrap to fill the gaps inside the box and provide cushioning. The artwork should not be touching the sides or bottom of the box.
Using tape and making sure all corners of the box are reinforced will add extra sturdiness to the box containing your artwork.
4. Label Your Box
Label the box or crate containing your artwork with ‘Fragile’ stickers. This will alert your movers or handlers to take extra care when handling your artwork. It’s also helpful to label the box with the contents, dimensions, as well as their orientation.
5. Choosing A Delivery Method
If you’re shipping your artwork, it is essential to consider your options carefully. Seek out established courier companies with proven experience in handling art. Reputable companies that specialize in transporting art will have the necessary knowledge and expertise to secure your artwork safely for transportation.
While transporting art by yourself may seem like a cheaper option, remember that your artwork might not have insurance coverage if it gets damaged. A reliable art shipping company will provide insurance coverage that sufficiently protects your artwork from damage during transit.
6. Climate Control
Changing temperatures and climatic conditions can easily damage artwork, particularly high-end pieces that are sensitive to changes in climate. It’s therefore essential to protect your artwork from unfavorable environmental conditions. Consider choosing a mode of transportation that has climate-controlled options.
If you’re moving to a different country or state, do your research and find out the relevant climatic conditions. Your valuable artwork may also require going through a condition report to ensure that they are free from any potential damage caused by transportation.
7. Store your Artwork
If you’re not in a hurry to move your artwork, you could consider storing them in a secure location. This option is particularly necessary if you’re downsizing or considering relocating to a smaller space.
When choosing an appropriate storage facility, ensure that it is a climate-controlled space with the right humidity levels. You don’t want your artwork to be damaged by moisture or temperature fluctuations.
In addition to climate control, ensure that the storage unit is secure, with CCTV cameras and motion sensors. Be mindful of the kinds of storage space you are choosing for your art, since some materials and chemicals, especially those that contain acid are harmful to artwork.
Conclusion
Your artwork is a precious item that requires extra care during transportation. Following the steps outlined in this guide ensures that your artwork is protected against damage and handled professionally. Whether you’re relocating or shipping your artwork, ensure that you invest in high-quality packing materials and select a trusted courier company specializing in the transportation of art.
By paying close attention to every detail, you’ll ensure that your artwork arrives at its destination safely and in the same condition as before packing. Remember that art is a window to one’s soul. Therefore, it is crucial to take the necessary steps to protect the artworks that bring a sense of joy to you and your loved ones.