Tips for Moving and Packing Antiques

Packing your irreplaceable valuables such as antiques and artwork can be nerve-wracking. All it takes is an improper packing job or a bumpy ride in the truck and your antiques could be damaged during a move. It’s crucial that you take the proper steps when moving antiques from one home to another. Here’s how you can box them up so they all arrive in one piece.

You Will Need:

Microfiber cloth
Packing paper or peanuts
Plastic wrap (air-filled)
Furniture pads
Glassine (buy it by the roll at the craft store)
Packing tape
Corner protectors
Boxes, including specialty boxes
Moving blankets

What to Do First

Take an inventory: Before you even start to pack, take a detailed inventory of all of your items and make note of their current condition.
Get an appraisal: It’s wise to know the precise value of your antiques so you can have that info handy later should you need to make a claim.
Check your homeowner’s insurance policy: Some insurance companies will cover your antiques during a move, but others require this as an extra add-on that you have to tell them about in advance.
Clean each item: Using a microfiber cloth, clean each item before packing so they will arrive in optimal condition.

Packing Tips

Artwork, Mirrors, Smaller Antiques

Determine which size or type of box you will pack each of your antiques in. It’s best to use the smallest box so no shifting occurs. Pack paintings and mirrors in specialty boxes. Other antiques are best packed with dividers in the box, such as fragile glasses.

Wrap all glass items in a layer of Glassine, which is a barrier paper with a wax-like finish. This will prevent your items from getting stained or smudged.

Place corner protectors on framed artwork and mirrors, whether you choose plastic, styrofoam, or cardboard. Use air-filled plastic wrap to further cushion each item, wrapping it at least twice and securing with packing tape. Fill gaps with packing peanuts.

Antique Furniture

Disassemble any large antique furniture for safer packing and easier transit. If the larger parts are impossible to remove, concentrate on simply removing small items such as drawer pulls and casters.

Securely wrap each item in furniture pads or moving blankets, being careful to not place plastic wrap directly on old furniture. It traps moisture and leads to damage. Likewise, don’t use tape to keep your drawers closed; rather, use twine. Follow that up with a layer of air-filled plastic wrap for extra protection.

Safe Moving

Once your antiques have been packed up correctly, you have to get them transported in the safest manner possible. Tell your movers you have antiques so they treat those boxes with extra care. You can even bring those boxes with you in your car to ensure they don’t get packed tightly into the truck with other boxes on top.

If you are worried about the prospect of moving your own antiques, you’re best off hiring professional movers who will also pack your antiques. They can show up with the proper materials to pack your antiques in a professional manner. Letting the pros handle this will save you stress and time.