Moving artwork is one of the most challenging types of relocations a moving company can manage. The responsibility of protecting the integrity of a work of art is daunting for the gallery owner who does not actually own the art. The gallery owner makes a commission on the sale but has the onus of careful handling of the art while it is in his possession. If an art dealer or gallery owner must relocate, it’s best to work with an art relocation business well-trained in preserving and moving artwork.

Different forms of art present different types of challenges:

1. The raised surface of the oil painting is easy to scratch or chip if the paint abrades in shipment. Covering the painted surface with unprinted paper will help protect it.

2. Charcoal and pastel work smear easily and can fade if openly exposed. If their surfaces are not protected by glass, they should minimally be covered by a sheet of paper, secured in placed to prevent smearing the surface.

3. Glass frames are easy to break. All glass and mirrors will require tape be placed across the surface to hold the glass together in case of breakage.

4. Sculptures with thin sections or figures with appendages are often subject to breakage. Each delicate area should be protected with foam or wrapped in bubble wrap in addition to the outer wrapping.

5. Large metal or stone sculptures are exceptionally heavy. They may require powered machinery to move them.

6. Frames need to be protected to prevent breakage. There are special types of cardboard boxes designed to hold paintings in place and create cushioning around them to keep them stable and prevent shock.

Just as important as proper packing is the proper labeling of works to indicate if a package contains glass or other fragile items.

While furniture can be touched up if scratched or dinged, artwork created in specific mediums by the artist cannot be easily repaired or replicated and the cost of repairs, when possible, can be exorbitant. Dropping, scratching, ripping, or chipping could permanently ruin an art piece and make the art proprietor liable for damages.

The mover must be insured not only for damages but also theft as many pieces could be valued in thousands or millions of dollars. The atmosphere of the room or vehicle can affect the artwork. Moisture could cause mildew, for one. You may need to have climate control precautions in place as you transfer work from one location to another.

The longer the journey, the greater the chance your shipment will be subject to bumps in the road and shifting caused by sudden braking or sharp turns. Items placed in a box with packing can settle to the bottom or be crushed by the weight of falling boxes or sudden stops. If something is susceptible to breakage, it will require sufficient padding before being placed in a box and the packing in the box should keep items stable. Foam is great for cushioning for all types of packing uses.

When valuables are involved, your best bet is to trust a professional service. Most have their own insurance and are trained for all the issues normally encountered when moving art.