Whether it’s a commission from a professional artist or a drawing from your child, the artwork you display in your home is valuable. If you have to move it, you want to keep it safe. The frequently asked questions and answers below provide essential information about artwork packing and storage.

A Guide to Packing & Storing Artwork

How should you pack your art?

You can use simple cardboard boxes to hold your artwork—just make sure they are the right size. Once inside the box and buffered by appropriate packing materials, the piece shouldn't have loose space to rattle around. This can dent a canvas or break a glass frame.

What protective materials should you wrap art in?

Steer clear of materials that can scratch or stain the artwork. Newspaper can leave unsightly black marks from the ink if it gets damp, for example. That is why it’s best to purchase plastic bubble wrap, as it helps keep artwork secure without marring it.

How should you label artwork?

Seal any boxes with artwork and label them as “fragile.” There are pre-made stickers you can purchase with warnings like “glass inside.” Adhering these to your boxes helps alert movers to the fact that they need to be handled with care.

What else can you do to keep art safe?

Test your packaging before moving day. Pack the artwork following the tips above and then shake the box—it’s a test run. If the art has room to move and rattle around, add more packing material, like bubble wrap, to secure it better.

How can you preserve art for long-term storage?

If you are planning to move to a new home but are staying somewhere else temporarily first, you likely will keep decorative items like art in storage until you reach your final destination. Follow the packing tips above but also make sure the art is stored in a temperature-controlled environment, as extreme heat or cold can cause the paint to warp.

West Side Storage & Truck Rental of Cincinnati, OH, has the expert knowledge you need to transport and store your belongings safely. They offer a variety of secure storage options, including climate-controlled units. To keep your belongings safe, they have a 24-hour, cutting-edge security system, which is actively monitored. You can enjoy peace of mind, knowing your possessions are safe. Visit their website to learn more about their services. To reserve a storage space or rent a truck, call (513) 451-6474.