As you pack up your artwork or art studio in preparation for a move, the main goal is to get your items from point A to point B as safely as possible. However, it’s important to figure out details ahead of time, such as securing ample packing supplies, setting up movers insurance, and deciding on the best moving company to safely handle your belongings.

Whether you are hiring a professional mover or doing it yourself, it is important that you understand how to pack your artwork and maximize its safety during transit. In fact, artwork has been found to be among the top 10 items most commonly damaged during a move. For paintings, place newspaper or tissue paper around all surfaces of the artwork, and tape down the corners. Place layers of cardboard on each side of the painting, and secure it with tape. For extra protection, add a layer of bubble wrap to absorb some of the shock should the transit get a little bumpy or items shift. Sculptures, statues, and other uniquely shaped pieces of artwork can be little bit tricky to pack. Start by disassembling any pieces that can be broken down. Pick a box that is slightly bigger than the piece itself, to allow room for additional packing material such as packing peanuts or bubble wrap. Use bubble wrap to cover all visible surfaces of the piece, securing it with tape, and double-wrap areas of the artwork that may be especially vulnerable or delicate. With all artwork, make sure to label the box as fragile, and make a note of any special packing instructions for yourself or a mover.

For smaller items such as paints, pastels, watercolors, or other art tools, consider using open boxes or trays. If certain items are vulnerable to extreme heat or cold, consider transporting them in a vehicle that is temperature-controlled such as your personal vehicle or an air-controlled truck.

Many insurance companies insure artwork, but the type of insurance you choose is dependent upon the amount and value of your artwork, and the kind of coverage you prefer. For artwork, it is best to go with property insurance, which insures against damage and theft. If you already have homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, you may already be covered up to your policy limit per item minus a disclosed deductible, but art may require an add-on floater to cover it. If you have a significant piece or collection of artwork, you may consider having a policy written by a fine art insurance company that cover and specialize in a broad range of artwork such as your own personal artwork.

When you are looking into art insurance, you must decide what you want to insure against, such as fire, theft, natural disasters, and damage from accidents at home or during a move. Look for policies that cover both replacement and restoration, and inquire whether the policy will reimburse you for lost value such as if a repair reduces the value of the piece. However, most fine art experts recommend insuring art for its replacement value as opposed to its original cost, so have your artwork appraised every year or two.

If the idea of moving on your own or hiring a random moving company to transport your artwork seems a little daunting, consider hiring an artwork or fine art moving company who specialize in the types of items you are looking to move. These specialized movers are trained in the best practices to safely transport your fragile artwork, including packing material, packing, loading, and unloading. Just like if you were to hire a mover, finding an artwork mover requires research. Have them give an in-home estimate, and ask about their specific experience in relation to the items you want moved.  Be sure to inquire about the packing materials they use, and if the moving vehicle will be climate-controlled to protect susceptible items and supplies such as paint or clay. Ask for their credentials and reviews from past customers to ensure that your artwork will be in the best hands.

As you prepare to move your artwork, make sure you are comfortable throughout the entire process. Speak up if you notice something going awry and make sure all details are addressed to help the move go as smoothly as possible.

Author: Aimee Lyons