Packing framed pictures and artwork can be trickier than it looks. Glass breaks easily, frames scratch, and one bad bump can damage something you really care about. And since those photos and prints are often the first things that make a new place feel familiar, it’s worth taking the time to protect them.
With the right materials and a little care, your favorite pieces will arrive safely, ready to hang and bring your new walls to life.
What You’ll Need to Pack Pictures for Moving
Before you start wrapping anything, get your materials ready.
You’ll want:
- Sturdy, flat picture boxes (or telescoping boxes for larger pieces)
- Packing paper or soft cloth.
- Bubble wrap
- Painter’s tape
- Corner protectors (cardboard or foam)
- Packing tape and a marker for labeling
Pro tip: Skip oversized boxes, they get too heavy fast and frames can slide around inside. Instead, use picture or mirror boxes that fit your frames snugly. For small pieces, flat boxes around 2–4 inches deep work best.
Step-by-Step: How to Pack Pictures for Moving
Clean and Prep each Frame
Wipe away dust and fingerprints so nothing rubs or scratches during transit. Remove any hanging hardware from the back so it doesn’t snag or poke through wrapping.
Protect the Glass
Use painter’s tape to make a large “X” across the glass. It won’t stop it from breaking, but it helps keep shards in place if it does. Then, cover the glass with a sheet of packing paper or cardboard cut to size.
Wrap It Up
Wrap each piece in a few layers of packing paper, followed by bubble wrap for cushioning. Secure with tape but never directly on the frame.
Add Corner Protection
Slide on cardboard or foam corner protectors to prevent dents. They’re especially useful for wood or metal frames.
Box It Properly
Place wrapped pictures upright in the box (like books on a shelf), never flat. Fill any gaps with crumpled paper, towels, or soft cloth so nothing moves around.
Seal and Label
Tape up the box securely and label it “Fragile – Pictures – This Side Up.” You’ll thank yourself later when it’s time to unpack and hang them again.
What About Unframed Artwork?
Unframed art, canvases, and prints need a little extra attention since they don’t have glass or borders for protection. The goal is to keep the surface from rubbing, bending, or catching on anything.
Start by wrapping each piece in acid-free paper or glassine (if you have it) to prevent smudges. Then, add a layer of bubble wrap, but make sure the bubbles face outward so they don’t leave impressions on the surface. For stretched canvases, place a piece of cardboard over the front and back for structure before wrapping.
If you’re packing multiple pieces in one box, separate them with sheets of cardboard so they don’t press against each other. Keep everything upright, never flat, and mark the box as “Artwork – Fragile.”
Final Tips Before Moving Day
A few small details can make a big difference when it comes to protecting your framed pictures and artwork:
- Avoid stacking boxes flat. Keeping them upright prevents pressure cracks and bent frames.
- Keep temperature in mind. If you’re moving in extreme heat or cold, don’t leave framed or canvas pieces in the truck for long periods since humidity and temperature shifts can cause damage.
- Take photos before packing. It’s a simple way to remember where everything goes and how it looked in case you need to file a claim.
- Set aside a few pieces to travel with you. Sentimental or irreplaceable photos deserve an extra layer of safety, sometimes the best spot for them is in your own car.
Packing Help When You Need It
Packing delicate items like pictures can be time-consuming, especially when you’re trying to handle everything else a move involves. If you’d rather not stress about the wrapping, boxing, and labeling, Eco Movers can help. Our team is trained to handle fragile pieces with the same care you would.
Get in touch for a free quote or ask about our packing services, so you can focus on settling in and seeing those familiar frames on your new walls again.
