Transporting a painting? Here's how to ensure your artwork arrives safely

Paintings are often fragile, hold emotional value, and can be difficult or impossible to restore if damaged. One wrong move, a scratch, or a bump can cause permanent damage to a work of art. That’s why it’s important to be well-prepared when transporting a painting. We’ll explain what you need to keep in mind to ensure your artwork arrives at its new location undamaged.

Why Moving a Painting Involves Risks

Transporting a painting yourself may seem simple, but paintings are more delicate than they appear. Common risks include:

• Physical damage: Bumping into things, dropping the painting, or getting it stuck in narrow hallways can damage it.
• Frames and glass: Fragile glass can crack or break, and wooden frames can warp.
• Fluctuations in temperature and humidity: these can damage paint, canvas, and wood, especially in older paintings.
• Improper handling: A painting that is not supported properly may tear or peel away from the canvas.
• These risks demonstrate that a careful approach is essential to prevent damage.

These risks show that a professional approach is often necessary to prevent damage.

How to Move a Painting Safely

Transporting a painting requires careful preparation and the right approach. Follow these steps to get your artwork from point A to point B without damage:

1. Document the painting
   Take photos of both the front and the back. This is useful as proof of its condition and important for insurance purposes, in the unlikely event that something goes wrong during transport.
2. Protect the painting properly
   Use bubble wrap, foam rubber, or a special painting cover to protect the artwork from bumps and scratches. For larger or valuable paintings, custom-made crates or wooden shipping crates are the safest option. For old or fragile works, it can also help to provide extra reinforcement along the edges of the painting.
3. Have fragile paintings packed by professionals
   Old or fragile paintings require extra care. Professionals know exactly how to handle a painting safely. Even when moving on your own, it’s wise to ask someone to help you pack and carry fragile works of art.
4. Label clearly
   Mark boxes or crates with “fragile” and explicitly state that the contents are a painting. This way, the person transporting the painting will know to handle it with care.
5. Use appropriate transportation
   Keep the painting upright during transport and avoid vibrations. Air-suspension vehicles or equipment such as dollies, lifts, and cranes help ensure the painting is moved safely. For long distances or multiple moves, professional transportation is often the most reliable option.
6. Please communicate any special requirements to
   . Provide clear instructions on how the painting should be carried and positioned. This will help prevent accidents in narrow hallways, on stairs, or near doors. Also, be sure to mention if the artwork is heavy or large and requires additional manpower or equipment.
7. Check the painting upon arrival
   When the painting arrives at its new location, check its condition immediately. This will allow you to identify any damage right away and take action. Then hang the painting in a safe place, out of direct sunlight and away from damp conditions.

When should you hire a moving company?

Although it is possible to transport a painting yourself, hiring a professional moving company like Oomen Verhuizers can eliminate a lot of stress and risk. We have the experience, specialized materials, and insurance to transport your painting safely from point A to point B.
Curious about the options and costs? Feel free to contact us for a customized quote.