When you move, your artwork and antiques are particularly vulnerable to damage. That’s why it’s vital to pack and transport these items correctly. Follow these tips so that your valuables make the move intact and unblemished.
Pre-Move Actions for Valuables
Taking care of your art and antiques starts well before packing. Prior to moving, high-value artwork and antique items should also be:
- Appraised
- Insured
- Inventoried and documented
When you have your belongings appraised, make sure the appraiser is compliant with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraiser Practice (USPAP). There is no central certifying body for appraisers (although many have certifications from various sources), so asking about USPAP compliance is a good way to weed through potential candidates.
Once your items are appraised and valued, make sure they’re appropriately insured. Some might be covered by your homeowner’s policy, but others may need specialty coverage.
Before you start packing anything, you also need to conduct a thorough inventory of your items. This is more than just a list. It includes:
- A written description
- Dimensions
- Current condition
- Pictures from multiple perspectives
- Appraisal reports
Having this fully fleshed-out record means that you know exactly what’s getting packed and the condition it should still be in when it’s unpacked.
Safe Packing and Moving
When moving valuable items, padding, positioning, and packing should all be considered. You may also want to ask your moving company if they will do the packing for you since they will have expertise in this area.
At Chase Moving and Storage, our experienced team can safely pack your art and antiques so that you know they’ll make the move without a scratch. If you prefer to go the DIY route, these steps will help ensure a safe and secure move.
For framed artwork:
- Cover surfaces with a protective layer like Glassine (a special type of paper) to safeguard from damage
- Protect corners with Styrofoam or cardboard corner protectors
- Wrap pieces in bubble wrap, securing the wrap with tape
- Pack items in sturdy cardboard boxes; telescoping boxes are particularly useful
- Pack and move pieces upright, not stacked on top of or under other items
- If moving multiple pieces, place them front to front and back to back so that any hardware is kept away from the artwork surfaces
For antique items or furniture:
- Disassemble any large items, if possible (including removing drawers)
- Wrap pieces in bubble wrap, securing the wrap with tape
- Wrap pieces in moving blankets, securing the blanket with tape, for an extra layer of protection
- Place extremely delicate items in size-appropriate hard-sided boxes
- Pack all items in wooden crates or sturdy cardboard boxes
- Make sure you have plenty of hands to help load and unload to avoid dropping or jostling items
If you need help packing and moving valuable items in Burlington, call the team at Chase Moving and Storage today. We’ve been in the moving business for over 100 years and we’re well-versed in moving best practices. Our regular employees (not subcontractors) perform all work and we’re fully certified, trained, and insured. Chase Moving and Storage—The Most Trusted Movers Since 1908.
