How to Pack Paintings for Sending Overseas
Executive Summary
Packing paintings for relocation is the controlled process of protecting framed or unframed artwork from physical damage and environmental exposure during transit. It matters because artworks are highly vulnerable to impact, moisture, and temperature changes, creating preservation and insurance risks. This information is most relevant for homeowners, collectors, galleries, and relocation professionals handling valuable art.
Why Artwork Damage Often Occurs During Otherwise Routine Moves
Packing and exporting your valuable painting to overseas is not an easy task. You should carefully pack your paintings or sculpture for sending abroad.
- Place a tissue paper or butter paper on the surface of the painting
- If the painting has glass, tape the surface of the glass using cellophane tape across corners & centers in an “X” & “+” mark. If the glass cracks in transit, this will hold the broken glass pieces together & prevents them from tearing the painting.
- Wrap with bubble wrap for cushioning
- Wrap with 2 ply corrugated rolls or 3 ply corrugated sheets to provide padding
- Use picture boxes if available
- Secure with twine or straps for paintings
- Mark package with fragile/glass/handle with care stickers (if required)
- Mark owner name, package number, contents, room & destination on the package for identifications
- Crating is strongly advised
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Steps Involved in Fine Art Relocation
1. Why must paintings be packed differently than regular items?
Paintings are delicate and can easily get damaged by pressure, moisture, or bending, so they need special protective packing.
2. What should I use to protect the surface of a painting?
Use acid-free tissue paper to cover the artwork’s surface before other protective layers.
3. How do I protect the edges and corners of a framed painting?
Apply corner protectors or wrap extra padding around the frame’s edges to prevent impact damage.
4. Why is bubble wrap used when packing paintings?
Bubble wrap cushions paintings and absorbs shocks during transport, helping protect against scratches and impacts.
5. Should paintings be packed in special boxes?
Yes — paintings are best placed in appropriately sized and sturdy boxes that hold them securely without movement.
6. How can I make sure paintings don’t shift inside the box?
Fill any gaps inside the box with extra padding so the painting stays snug and doesn’t move.
7. Is labelling the painting boxes important?
Yes — labelling the box with contents and “Fragile” ensures careful handling during the move.
8. How should large or valuable paintings be handled?
Large or valuable artworks may need extra custom-sized crates and careful transport planning to ensure maximum protection.