Moving across the country is an exciting and stressful time. On the one hand, you get to start a new adventure in a new place. On the other hand, the process of moving itself can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to protecting your valuable decorative arts during the move.
This is where long distance movers come in handy, as they can ensure your items are safe during transport. This article will provide tips and tricks to keep your decorative arts safe and beautiful during a cross-country move.
Table of Contents
1. Assess the Condition of Your Decorative Arts
It is crucial to evaluate the condition of your decorative art before the move. This will help you identify any potential problems during the move, allowing you to take the necessary precautions to protect your items. Assessing the condition of your decorative art also helps determine if any restoration work is needed before the move.
Tips For Assessing The Condition Of Different Types Of Decorative Arts
Different types of decorative arts require different assessment techniques. For furniture, check for loose joints, cracks, and dents. For ceramics, check for cracks, chips, and glaze damage. For glassware, check for scratches, cracks, and chips.
- Furniture: For furniture, evaluate the condition of the legs, arms, and other structural elements. Check for any signs of damage, such as cracks or loose joints. If you notice any damage, consider having it repaired before the move.
- Ceramics: For ceramics, carefully inspect the surface of the items for cracks, chips, or glaze damage. Use a flashlight to examine the piece closely and look for any signs of damage that may not be visible in normal lighting.
- Glassware: For glassware inspect each piece for scratches, cracks, and chips. Look for any areas of weakness that may be prone to breakage during the move.
Recommendations For Professional Restoration Services If Needed
If you notice any damage to your decorative art, consider seeking the services of a professional restoration specialist. They can help you repair any damage and ensure that your items are in the best possible condition before the move.
2. Create a Packing Timeline
Creating a packing timeline helps you stay organized and ensures you don’t leave anything behind. It also helps you to break down the packing process into smaller, more manageable tasks.
Suggestions For Breaking Down The Packing Process Into Smaller Tasks
Breaking down the packing process into smaller tasks makes the process more manageable. Consider creating a packing schedule outlining the tasks you must complete each day leading up to the move.
- Packing materials: Before you start packing, ensure you have all the necessary materials. This may include boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and packing peanuts.
- Packing schedule: Create a packing schedule outlining the tasks you must complete each day leading up to the move. This may include packing one room at a time, labeling boxes, and organizing items.
Staying organized throughout the move is critical to ensuring your decorative arts remain safe and secure. Make sure to label each box clearly and keep an inventory of your items to ensure nothing is lost or damaged during the move.
3. Pack Artwork and Paintings Properly
Proper packing is essential to ensure your artwork and paintings remain safe and secure during the move. Artwork and paintings are delicate and require special attention when packing to avoid damage.
Materials Needed For Packing Artwork And Paintings
Use specialized materials, including acid-free tissue paper and bubble wrap, to pack artwork and paintings properly. These materials will help to protect your items from damage during the move.
- Acid-free tissue paper: Use acid-free tissue paper to wrap your artwork and paintings. This will help to protect them from any potential damage caused by exposure to acids or other harmful chemicals.
- Bubble wrap: Use bubble wrap to protect your artwork and paintings from bumps and other impacts during the move. Wrap each item carefully, ensuring that it is completely covered.
Techniques For Wrapping And Protecting Items
Framed artwork and paintings: To pack framed artwork and paintings, first, wrap the item in acid-free tissue paper. Then, cover the entire item with a layer of bubble wrap, securing it with packing tape. Place the wrapped item in a sturdy cardboard box, preferably one specifically designed for artwork or reinforced with additional packing materials.
Sculptures and other 3D artwork: When packing sculptures and other three-dimensional artwork, it’s important to protect any delicate or protruding parts. Wrap the item in several layers of bubble wrap, securing it with packing tape. For added protection, use foam or other cushioning materials to create a custom-fit box or crate for the item.
In addition to using the right materials and techniques for packing artwork, there are a few additional tips to keep in mind to protect your items during transport:
- Avoid stacking heavy boxes on top of boxes containing artwork or other delicate items.
- Store artwork and other decorative items in a temperature-controlled environment during transport.
- Consider purchasing additional insurance coverage for your artwork and other valuable items during the move.
4. Protect Antiques and Collectibles
Using soft materials to wrap delicate items: When packing antiques and collectibles, it’s important to use soft, cushioning materials to protect delicate surfaces from scratches, dents, or other damage. Some materials that work well include:
- Bubble wrap
- Packing peanuts
- Foam sheets or pads
- Soft fabric, such as cotton or microfiber
If you have antiques or collectibles that are particularly valuable, consider getting them appraised before the move. This can help you better understand their worth and ensure that they are properly insured during the move.
5. Consider Hiring Professional Art Movers
Working with a professional art mover can provide peace of mind knowing that your decorative arts are in the hands of experienced and trained professionals. Professional movers have specialized equipment, such as custom crates and packing materials, to help ensure your items arrive safely at their destination.
Final Thought
Moving can be a stressful time, especially when it comes to transporting your delicate and valuable decorative art. However, with proper planning and preparation, you can ensure that your items arrive safely and securely at your new location.