Packing and transporting paintings safely
How to move paintings without causing damage — whether across a room or across the country
Before you begin
Moving a painting, even a short distance, carries real risk if done without care. The most common causes of transport damage are: impact, vibration, changes in temperature and humidity, and pressure on the paint surface. All of these are preventable with the right approach.
Before packing, assess the condition of the work. If there is any flaking paint, damaged canvas, or loose frame elements, do not attempt to move it yourself. Contact a conservator first, a fragile painting can sustain irreversible losses during even careful transport.
Note: Photograph the painting carefully before packing — front, back, and any areas of existing damage. This creates a record of its condition before transport and is essential for insurance purposes
Materials to use — and avoid
The choice of packing materials matters greatly. Some commonly used household materials can cause significant damage to paintings.
Glassine paper A smooth, semi-transparent paper used as the first layer directly against the painted surface (for unglazed works). It is acid-free, non-adhesive, and will not stick or react with the paint film.
Acid-free tissue An alternative first layer for delicate surfaces. Avoid standard tissue paper, which is acidic and can leave residues.
Bubble wrap Useful as a secondary protective layer, but should never touch the painted surface directly. The texture of bubble wrap can imprint onto fresh or sensitive paint films. Always interpose glassine or tissue first.
Foam padding Closed-cell foam (such as Plastazote) provides excellent cushioning and can be cut to size. Useful for corners and edges.
Corner protectors Cardboard or foam corner guards protect the most vulnerable points of a frame from impact.
Packing step by step
Step 1: protect the surface For unglazed paintings, lay a sheet of glassine loosely over the painted surface. Do not press it down, just let it rest. Secure it with a small piece of tape to the back of the frame only.
Step 2: wrap the painting Wrap the whole work in at least two layers of bubble wrap. Ensure the corners and edges are well padded. Secure with tape, but keep tape away from any unfinished wood, canvas edges, or gilding.
Step 3: choose the right box The box should be larger than the painting on all sides, allowing at least 5cm of padding material between the work and the box walls. A purpose-made wooden crate is ideal for valuable or fragile works.
Step 4: pack the box Line the base of the box with foam or scrunched acid-free paper. Place the wrapped painting inside. Fill all remaining space firmly, the painting should not be able to shift or move inside the box.
Step 5: label clearly Mark the box THIS WAY UP with arrows, FRAGILE, and DO NOT STACK. For valuable works, also mark ART — HANDLE WITH CARE
Transporting in a vehicle
Even well-packed paintings can be damaged if not properly secured in a vehicle. Vibration and sudden stops are the main risks.
Keep upright Paintings on canvas should travel upright, not flat. Flat transport puts stress on the canvas and can cause deformation. Paintings on panel can travel flat if well supported.
Secure against movement Wedge the painting firmly so it cannot slide or tip. Use blankets, foam blocks, or other soft materials to brace it.
Avoid the boot in summer Car boots can reach extreme temperatures. If the journey is long, keep the painting in the passenger area where temperature is regulated.
Do not leave unattended Never leave a painting in a vehicle overnight or for extended periods, temperature fluctuations and theft are both significant risks.
Note: For significant works, it is worth engaging a specialist fine art courier or art handler. They have appropriate vehicles, insurance, and experience. Your insurer may also require specialist transport for works above a certain value — check your policy
After arrival — acclimatisation
If a painting has been transported in cold or very different conditions, do not unpack it immediately in a warm room. Allow it to acclimatise gradually inside its packaging, ideally for several hours, or overnight for long journeys. Sudden changes from cold to warm can cause condensation to form on the paint surface.
After unpacking, inspect the painting carefully against the pre-transport photographs. If anything has changed — any new cracks, lifting, or damage — document it and contact your insurer and a conservator.
When in doubt, ask a conservator
These guides are intended to help you care for your paintings with confidence. They are not a substitute for professional assessment. If you notice anything concerning — flaking paint, discolouration, structural damage — please get in touch before attempting any intervention yourself.
