Moving can be stressful, and ensuring your precious photos arrive safely at your new home is a top priority. This guide provides detailed steps on How To Pack Photos For Moving, whether they’re framed masterpieces or loose snapshots.
Packing Framed Artwork for a Move
Protecting framed artwork requires extra care due to the delicate nature of glass and the potential for frame damage. Here’s a step-by-step approach:
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Protect the Glass: Apply masking tape in a large “X” pattern across the glass surface. This helps prevent shattering and holds the pieces together if breakage occurs. Skip this step for non-glass artwork to avoid damage.
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Wrap the Artwork: Carefully wrap the entire piece in plastic wrap, bubble wrap, or Glassine paper. Secure the wrapping with packing tape. Avoid using newspaper directly against the artwork as the ink may transfer and stain.
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Reinforce with Corner Protectors: Add corner protectors to shield the frame from bumps and impacts. You can purchase specialized corner protectors or create your own using cardboard, Styrofoam, or extra bubble wrap.
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Pad the Frame: Place the wrapped artwork face down on a layer of packing material like bubble wrap or packing paper. Wrap the frame in several layers of padding, securing each layer with packing tape. For bubble wrap, ensure the bubbles face outward for optimal impact absorption.
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Pack in a Box: Line the bottom of a sturdy box with cushioning material such as crumpled paper, packing peanuts, or bubble wrap. Gently slide the wrapped artwork into the box and fill any remaining space with more packing material to prevent shifting during transit. Pack large framed items individually to avoid damage.
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Seal and Label: Seal the box securely with packing tape. Clearly label the box as “Fragile” and indicate the contents, such as “Framed Artwork” or a specific description of the piece. Keep boxed paintings upright during transport to minimize the risk of damage.
Packing Unframed Art and Photos
Unframed artwork and photos require different packing techniques:
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Rolling Canvases and Posters: Loosely roll canvases and posters with the painted or printed side facing outward. Place the rolled artwork in a sturdy cardboard tube. Avoid using bubble wrap as it can trap moisture. Never fold unframed art as this will create permanent creases.
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Protecting Loose Photos: Place loose photos in archival-quality photo boxes or albums. Alternatively, you can use zip-lock bags or acid-free envelopes to organize and protect them. Small framed photos can be individually wrapped in paper or bubble wrap and placed upright in a box.
Ensuring Your Photos Arrive Safely
Proper packing is essential for preserving your photos during a move. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage and ensure your cherished memories arrive at your new home intact. If you’re concerned about packing valuable or delicate artwork, consider consulting with professional movers experienced in handling fragile items. They have the expertise and specialized materials to ensure the safe transport of your treasured pieces.
