How to transport a painting

The most common mistake when handling a painting is to assume it is solid because of its size and frame. However, the largest area of a painting is the unprotected paper or canvas, which is liable to being ripped and torn when even the smallest amount of pressure is applied. Always keep the fact that a painting is fragile in the back of your mind when handling and moving. By following this guide you can avoid damaging your painting during that all important move.

Preparation

With fragile goods of this nature, whether through Shiply or elsewhere it is important to describe your painting to your chosen transport provider. You should tell them how large and heavy the painting is and how it will be packaged. You should also mention if you have any special requirements such as handling with gloves. Always label your name and the title of the painting on the back in case any confusion arises.

Ask your transport providers as many questions as possible! Have they had experience moving fragile goods? Do they have adequate insurance? Do they have the right equipment to move and load/unload a painting? These are the types of questions you should ask before committing yourself to a transport provider.

Packaging

The method of transportation required for transportation is dependent on the size and value of the painting. We are talking about sentimental value as well as financial! If you cannot bear the thought of a single blemish a custom made crate is the answer.

Remember that an oil painting is more susceptible to damage and smearing, especially if it was painted very recently. Oil paintings can take up to 6 months to fully dry so should be handled with care.

Bubble wrap and cardboard

This is a simple and easy method for your average painting. Place a sheet of acid-free glassine paper on the painted side of the painting. Make sure sure it covers the entire the surface area to completely ward off any moisture and dust that could damage the painting. Securely wrap the painting in bubble wrap or foam sheet. Use tape to fasten, making sure the tape does not tounch the frame or canvas.

Now place a sheet of reinforced cardboard or similar to either side of the painting. Sandwich the cardboard by securing another layer of bubble wrap or foam sheet. Again, tape to secure.

Place this painting sandwich into a cardboard box of an equivalent size. Any spare space in the cardboard box should be filled with packaging filler to prevent any movement. Mark the box “fragile” and label your name.

Pro tip: if the painting is the right size, a bike box (which you can often get for free at bicycle stores) can be a perfect match and is super sturdy to boot.

Rolling Tube

In some cases it makes sense to simply roll up the canvas and place inside a rolling tube. If the painting is acrylic, not very valuable or is going to be re-framed anyway it may be better to use a rolling tube.

First you should measure your painting so that you know how big a rolling tube you need. Once you have the right tube it is simply a case of taking the canvas off its stretchers, rolling it up and placing in the tube. Remember not too roll it too tight, to avoid any unnecessary cracking.

Wooden Crate

You can use a wooden crate to ensure your paintings safety. Like the first method, you should begin by placing acid-free glassine paper on the painted side of the painting.

You essentially want to create an outer frame for your painting. Assemble this by screwing hardwood strips together to fit the perimeter of your painting, leaving the top strip unscrewed. This custom shell should be wide enough for depth of the canvas with enough space for bubble wrap on either side. However, it should still be snug to prevent the painting from moving.

Nail, screw or glue two masonite boards to either side of your custom frame. This should be devoid of any gaps or holes, so moisture and dust doesn’t get inside. Place bubble wrap or foam sheet on each side of the frame and sandwich your painting in-between.

Screw the top strip into place and label it “open here.” You now have a custom built painting crate! Upon arrival simply unscrew the top section of the crate frame and take out the painting.