How to Pack Artwork for Moving Without Damage
Preparing different artworks for moving.
Moving artwork takes a little more care than packing everyday household items. Frames can chip, glass can crack, and delicate surfaces like canvas or fine paper don’t respond well to pressure or sudden changes in temperature. Even when a piece looks sturdy, it can still be vulnerable during transport.
The good news is that with a thoughtful approach and the right materials, most artwork can be moved safely. This guide walks you through how to prepare, pack, and unpack artwork in a way that protects it without overcomplicating the process, so your pieces arrive ready to feel at home again.
Key Takeaways
- Use protective materials like glassine or acid-free paper, bubble wrap, corner protectors, and sturdy boxes
- Avoid placing newspaper directly against artwork, as the ink can transfer
- Pack framed artwork upright rather than flat to reduce pressure
- Take artwork off the wall a day or two before moving to allow it to adjust
- Label boxes clearly so they’re handled with care
- For especially large or meaningful pieces, extra help can be worth considering
Essential Packing Materials
Packing artwork is really about layering protection. Each material plays a role in keeping surfaces clean, edges supported, and frames cushioned.
Glassine or acid-free paper creates a safe barrier against scratches. Bubble wrap adds padding, while foam sheets or cardboard help distribute pressure evenly. Corner protectors shield the most vulnerable parts of a frame, and sturdy boxes or mirror boxes keep everything upright and supported. Moving blankets are helpful once artwork is packed, especially during loading and transport.
Using the right materials from the start makes the entire process feel calmer and more controlled.
Preparing Artwork Before You Pack
A few small steps before packing can make a big difference later.
Take Stock And Document
Before wrapping anything, take a few photos of each piece and make a simple list with descriptions and sizes. This helps you stay organized and gives you a clear reference if you need it later.
It’s also a good way to slow down and make sure nothing gets rushed.
Take Artwork Down Early
Removing artwork from the wall a day or two before packing gives it time to adjust to room temperature. This is especially helpful if you’re moving between spaces with different climates.
Set pieces aside in a low-traffic area where they won’t be bumped while you’re packing other items.
Clean Gently
Lightly dust frames with a soft, dry cloth. If the glass needs cleaning, do so sparingly and make sure it’s fully dry before wrapping.
Avoid using liquids on artwork surfaces themselves. Clean, dry pieces are less likely to be scratched once they’re packed.
Packing Framed Artwork With Glass
Framed pieces need a bit of extra attention, but the process doesn’t have to feel complicated.
Add A Protective Front Layer
Whether your piece is framed with plexiglass or glass, the goal is the same: protect the surface from scratches and pressure. Start by placing glassine or acid-free paper over the front of the artwork, covering both the glazing and the frame. Secure it on the back so nothing touches the front directly.
This creates a clean barrier between the artwork and any padding, which is especially important for plexiglass, since it scratches more easily than traditional glass.
Cushion The Frame
Wrap the piece in a few layers of bubble wrap, keeping the bubbles facing outward. Focus extra padding around the corners, where frames are most likely to take impact during handling.
The tape should stay on the back of the frame to keep the front surface clean and pressure-free.
Optional Extra Support For Glass Frames
If a piece is framed with traditional glass, adding a small X of painter’s tape across the glass can help hold it together if it cracks during the move. This step isn’t meant to prevent breakage entirely, but to minimize damage if something shifts in transit.
When used, keep the tape off the frame itself and remove it carefully after unpacking.
Protect The Corners
Corner protectors add an extra layer of reassurance. They help absorb small bumps and keep frame edges from chipping during handling.
Packing Canvas Artwork Without Glass
Canvas artwork doesn’t have glass to worry about, but the surface itself needs protection.
Cover The Canvas Surface
Place glassine or a clean plastic sheet over the front of the canvas. Secure it to the back of the stretcher bars so nothing touches the painted or printed surface.
This keeps dust, moisture, and accidental contact at bay.
Wrap Lightly And Secure From The Back
Wrap the canvas in bubble wrap or foam sheets, keeping pressure gentle and even. Tape should only touch the back or stretcher bars, never the canvas itself.
Canvas doesn’t need heavy padding, just enough to keep it supported.
Support Edges And Corners
Corners and edges benefit from a little extra care. Corner protectors or rigid cardboard between stacked canvases help keep frames from denting or warping.
When Artwork Needs A Little Extra Care
Some pieces naturally ask for a slower, more thoughtful approach.
Larger Or Awkward-To-Handle Pieces
Oversized artwork can be difficult to move simply because of its scale. If a piece feels unwieldy once wrapped, or if you’re worried about navigating tight spaces, having extra help can make the process easier and less stressful.
Meaningful Or One-Of-A-Kind Artwork
Pieces with significant monetary or sentimental value often benefit from additional care. In these situations, professional packing isn’t about alarm, it’s about peace of mind and respecting the importance of the artwork.
Acrylic Or Plexiglass Frames
Acrylic doesn’t shatter like glass, but it scratches more easily. A soft protective layer directly against the surface and minimal pressure usually keep these pieces in good shape during a move.
Unpacking Without Rushing
Once everything arrives, give the artwork a little time to settle before unwrapping. Allowing pieces to adjust to the new environment helps avoid issues caused by sudden temperature or humidity changes.
When you do unpack, move slowly. Remove tape and wrapping carefully, and take a moment to inspect each piece. Keeping packing materials can be helpful for future moves or storage.
Bringing It All Together
Packing artwork doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. With the right materials, gentle handling, and a bit of extra time, most pieces move without issue.
Protective paper, padding, upright packing, and thoughtful preparation go a long way. For artwork that feels especially important or difficult to move, extra support can be a practical choice.
Handled with care, your artwork can arrive ready to settle into its new space, just as thoughtfully as it was displayed before.
FAQs
Can I Use Newspaper To Wrap Artwork?
It’s best not to. Newspaper ink can transfer onto artwork and paper surfaces, causing stains that are difficult or impossible to remove. Always use glassine or acid-free paper instead.
Should Artwork Be Packed Flat Or Standing Up?
Framed artwork should always be packed standing up, never flat. Vertical packing reduces pressure on the glass and frame and lowers the risk of breakage.
How Do I Pack A Large Canvas Painting?
Large canvases should be covered with protective paper, wrapped with padding, and supported with rigid materials. For very large or valuable pieces, professional packing is often the safest choice.
Do I Need Insurance When Moving Artwork?
If artwork is valuable, insurance is strongly recommended. Check whether your existing policy covers moves or if additional coverage is needed for transport.
Art included: Girl Squatting by Valeria Zaluzhna, Inspired by Hilma af Klint Modern Art Pioneer, Tangerine Blossom by Kaitlin Johnson
Published on: January 16, 2026 Modified on: January 18, 2026 By: Artfully Walls
