How to move fine art and antiques

When it comes to packing and relocating belongings, there are categories under which different articles fall into. Normally, some items are relatively easy to pack and transport. And, some require more skills and experience. However, if you do not possess the necessary knowledge or experience in this field, then hiring professional packers is a must. In case you have to move fine art and antiques, then the imperative of handling these items carefully is even greater. However, we are sure you already knew this, but we wonder if you know how these articles are being packed and transported for them to arrive undamaged at a new address? That is why we have decided to compile a list of necessary steps to be taken when moving these precious items.

What steps to take in order to move fine art and antiques?

When it comes to something delicate such as this, you can’t simply expect to finish the work in one day. Except you have only one piece of art to move. But even then, you just can not take it and move it as if it was a stuffed toy or something that cannot be easily damaged. Keep in mind that this article is of great value and it needs steady hands and a careful approach. Things become more complicated if you have a whole collection. That is why taking a step at a time is going to prevent making any serious problems or causing damage.

Break the whole thing into smaller tasks

As we said, you cannot do a job properly if you are in a hurry. Dealing with such a serious project, which moving certainly is, requires a systematic approach. Preparing well for the move means that the relocation will go smoother and the whole process will go faster. That is why we suggest you divide obligations into smaller parts and deal with them one by one. You see, one of the biggest problems people come across when doing tasks is inconsistency. We get easily distracted and somehow, before you even realize it, you have already switched from task to task, leaving it unfinished.

As professional NYC movers with long years of experience in this field of business, we can understand the anxiety and nervousness coming from a large number of tasks related to moving. That is why taking additional help when you are about to move fine art and antiques will save you from a lot of trouble.

Plan ahead

It might not be a bad idea to carefully plan all of the steps. On the other hand, there is always a chance something unexpected might occur. That is why we suggest carefully planning every part of your moving project. You can easily create a moving checklist to keep track of completed tasks and those yet to be done. This way, you will be more prepared to anticipate and react timely in case something you did not plan occurs.

Obtain appropriate packing supplies

No job can be done unless you have what you need to complete it. In this case, your art requires a quality packing material with which you will secure your art installments and which will enable safe transportation. Nowadays, many of those packing supplies are easily available such as cardboard boxes, bubble, plastic, and paper wrap. These are especially useful if you have extremely fragile pieces of art that you need to be extra careful of. Also, something you should not forget about is that no cushion-like materials such as blankets, pillows, etc. are ever enough. The more you have, the better it will be for these items. Moreover, the chances of them getting damaged are lowered to a minimum.

And this is what you actually should strive for. After all, that is the point of obtaining so many different packing materials when you need to move fine art and antiques. On the other hand, please note that in case you feel that you will not be able to handle this whole thing regarding properly packing your precious belongings, paying for a full service of packing and unpacking is a small price for what you will receive.

Pack fine art and antiques carefully

Now that you have all the right materials, it is vital to pack these delicate items with extreme care. Take one item at a time, and wrap it in plastic wrap. In case of rain, or snow water will not be able to reach your fine art and antiques. Continue with wrapping the items with bubble wrap. Bubble wrap is an essential part of the moving process, as it preserves your items from dents and scratches, but also absorbs the shock from sudden moves during transport.

Prepare the moving box

Once your items are wrapped in plastic wrap and bubble wrap, proceed to place them into a moving box. The moving box (preferably the original packaging) should be cushioned with crushed paper at the bottom. Then, place the items inside the box carefully. When you are finished, proceed with cushioning the top of the moving box. Finally, double tape the moving box, and your fine art and antiques are ready for transport.

Pro tip: Gently shake the moving box to see whether there is a clinking noise or any movement inside the box. If there is, that means that the box is not properly cushioned, and there is a high risk of damage. Open the box, and place more softening material to fill out any empty spaces.

Do not forget to put labels on each box and other packing supply

So far, we have only focused on packing and relocating your pieces of art. But we should not forget about other items you need to move, too. That is why, to separate one type of item from the other, we suggest placing labels on every box and packaging material that you used to pack the belongings. It doesn’t matter if you hire professional packers or have your friends or family assist you with the cargo. These labels will draw their attention and help protect items from damage. The same goes when you finally get to unpack them.

Insurance is a must

Even if you opt for professional fine art movers to help you move art and antiques, our recommendation is to get moving insurance for your belongings. You don’t know what might happen during the process and transportation. And, while no money can make it up to you in case of damage, at least you will have some compensation. Hence, our strongest suggestion is to hire someone who will be able to set a precise estimate of the total value of all fine pieces. This is particularly important if you’re moving a long distance and you need to have an extra guarantee for all of your belongings.

To move fine art and antiques is not the easiest of jobs you’ll need to do. We give you that. However, it is not impossible either. You can take our list and go step by step. If you’re wondering what’s the easiest way to move antique furniture and fine arts, hiring professionals is, without a doubt, the best choice you can make.