How to Pack Artwork and Mirrors for a Move
Artwork and mirrors are among the most fragile items in any home — and among the most expensive to replace if damaged. Proper packing makes the difference between arriving intact and arriving in pieces.
Materials You Need
- Bubble wrap (at least 2 rolls for a typical home)
- Packing paper or glassine paper (for valuable artwork)
- Masking tape or painter's tape
- Moving blankets
- Mirror boxes or picture boxes (available at moving supply stores)
- Cardboard sheets (for improvised protection)
- Permanent marker for labelling
Packing Framed Artwork and Prints
Step 1: Tape the Glass
If the frame has glass, tape an X across the glass surface with masking tape or painter's tape before doing anything else. This does not prevent the glass from breaking, but it holds the shards together if it does break — protecting the artwork and preventing injury.
Step 2: Wrap in Bubble Wrap
Wrap the entire frame in at least 2 layers of bubble wrap. Start at one corner and work diagonally, covering the entire surface. Secure with tape — do not tape directly to the frame if it is valuable.
Step 3: Add a Layer of Cardboard
Cut two pieces of cardboard slightly larger than the frame and sandwich the wrapped artwork between them. Secure with tape. This provides rigid protection against impacts.
Step 4: Box It
Use a picture box (available at moving supply stores) sized for the artwork. If you do not have a picture box, use two pieces of cardboard and secure them tightly around the wrapped piece.
Step 5: Label
Label the box or package:
- FRAGILE — ARTWORK
- THIS SIDE UP with an arrow
- DO NOT LAY FLAT if applicable
Packing Mirrors
Mirrors require the same approach as framed artwork, with extra attention to size and weight.
Small Mirrors (under 60cm)
Follow the same steps as framed artwork above.
Large Mirrors (over 60cm)
- Tape an X across the mirror surface with masking tape
- Wrap in at least 3 layers of bubble wrap
- Wrap in moving blankets over the bubble wrap
- Place in a mirror box or between two pieces of cardboard cut to size
- Label FRAGILE — MIRROR — DO NOT LAY FLAT — KEEP UPRIGHT
Large mirrors should always be transported upright — never flat. A mirror laid flat can crack under its own weight or from vibration during transport.
Packing Canvas Paintings (No Glass)
Canvas paintings without glass need different treatment:
- Do not wrap directly in bubble wrap — the texture can damage the paint surface
- Wrap in glassine paper first (acid-free, non-stick)
- Then wrap in bubble wrap
- Place in a box with cushioning on all sides, or between two pieces of cardboard
For oil paintings, make sure the paint is fully dry before wrapping. Fresh oil paint can take months to fully cure.
Valuable or Irreplaceable Artwork
For artwork with significant monetary or sentimental value:
- Transport it yourself in your car rather than in the moving truck
- Use acid-free packing materials throughout
- Keep the piece at a stable temperature — avoid leaving it in a hot car or cold truck for extended periods
- Consider professional art transport for very valuable pieces
Loading and Transport
When loading the truck, artwork and mirrors go in last and come out first. They should be placed upright against the truck wall, not stacked flat. The crew should know which boxes contain artwork before loading starts.
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