How to Safely Move Art & Antiques in Tucson

When you’re planning a move to Tucson, relocating valuable items like art and antiques requires more than standard packing. These pieces are often irreplaceable, not just because of their monetary value, but also their sentimental or historical significance. Mishandling during a move can result in irreparable damage. If you’re wondering how to protect these treasures during your move, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, you’ll learn practical steps for safeguarding your art and antiques, from packing techniques to choosing the right movers in Tucson.

1. Assess the Value and Condition of Your Items

Before you begin packing, it’s essential to assess the value and current condition of your art and antiques. This step helps you determine the level of protection each item needs and whether you’ll need insurance.

For high-value items, consider hiring a professional appraiser. Document any existing damage by taking detailed photos and writing descriptions. This will not only serve as a record but also help with insurance claims if something goes wrong during the move.

2. Choose the Right Packing Materials

Packing delicate items like art and antiques requires specialized materials. You can’t just use regular moving boxes and bubble wrap. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Custom crates or boxes: For particularly fragile or large items, consider having custom crates made.
• Acid-free tissue paper: This will prevent surface damage to paintings, frames, and antiques.
• Glassine paper: Ideal for protecting art from dust and moisture.
• Foam corner protectors: These prevent damage to picture frames and other hard-edged items.
• High-quality packing tape: Make sure the tape you use is strong and won’t come undone easily during the move.

Ensuring you have the right materials on hand can make all the difference when it comes to protecting your valuables.

3. Pack Paintings and Sculptures with Extra Care

Different types of art require different packing techniques. For paintings, start by wrapping the piece in acid-free tissue paper, followed by a layer of glassine paper. Once wrapped, place cardboard pieces on both the front and back of the painting before wrapping it in bubble wrap. For large, framed paintings, use custom wooden crates for optimal protection.

Sculptures can be more challenging because of their irregular shapes. Wrap sculptures with multiple layers of bubble wrap, paying extra attention to delicate parts. Then place them inside a box or crate filled with foam peanuts or foam padding to cushion against movement.

4. Consider Climate-Controlled Transport

Tucson’s dry heat can cause damage to certain antiques and art pieces, especially those made of wood, canvas, or paper. Consider using a climate-controlled moving truck to prevent exposure to extreme temperatures, which can lead to warping, cracking, or fading.

Climate-controlled transport helps maintain the integrity of your items by ensuring they are moved in a controlled environment, free from the risks posed by Tucson’s hot and dry climate.

5. Label Fragile Items Clearly

It may sound obvious, but clear labeling is crucial when moving valuable items like art and antiques. Use brightly colored “FRAGILE” labels on every box or crate containing your delicate pieces. If necessary, mark boxes with “This Side Up” stickers to ensure they’re handled correctly.

The more explicit your labeling, the easier for movers to treat these boxes with the caution they deserve. Clear labeling reduces the risk of accidental mishandling during the move.

6. Insure Your Art and Antiques

Even with all precautions, accidents can happen. That’s why ensuring your art and antiques before a move is vital. Many moving companies offer basic coverage, but this may not be enough for high-value items. Check your existing homeowners or renters insurance to see if it covers moving, and if not, consider purchasing additional coverage for your move.

Specialty insurance companies offer plans specifically tailored for valuable art and antiques, providing peace of mind that your items are financially protected in case of damage or loss.

7. Hire a Moving Company Experienced with Fine Art

Not all moving companies are equipped to handle art and antiques. You want to choose movers who have specific experience in transporting valuable items. Ask potential moving companies whether they have worked with art and antiques before, what their process is, and whether they offer custom crating services.

If you’re moving locally in Tucson, there are several reputable companies with experience in fine art relocation. One of the best options is E-Z Move.

Why Choose E-Z Move for Your Art and Antiques Move?

When it comes to moving valuable items like art and antiques, choosing the right moving company is critical. If you’re in Tucson, E-Z Move is the go-to option for ensuring a smooth and safe relocation of your most precious belongings. Known as the top movers in Tucson, E-Z Move has extensive experience in handling delicate, high-value items with care and precision.

With E-Z Move, you’re not just hiring a standard moving company. They offer specialized services, including custom crating, climate-controlled transport, and a team trained in moving fine art and antiques. Whether you’re relocating a fragile sculpture or a valuable painting, E-Z Move has the expertise and equipment to handle the job.

Their commitment to customer satisfaction and attention to detail sets them apart, making them the ideal choice for any move that involves irreplaceable items. Plus, with their strong local reputation, you can trust that your antiques and art will be in safe hands from start to finish. For a stress-free and professional moving experience, look no further than E-Z Move.

8. Supervise the Loading and Unloading Process

Even if you hire experienced movers, it’s still important to be present during the loading and unloading stages of your move. Supervise how each box is handled, especially those containing your art and antiques. Ensure that they are placed in the truck securely, with heavy items on the bottom and fragile ones on top.

When unloading, make sure each piece is placed in a safe location inside your new home, away from high-traffic areas where they could be accidentally bumped or damaged.

9. Unpack with Caution

Once you’ve arrived at your new home, the unpacking process should be done with the same level of care as packing. Don’t rush—unpack fragile items slowly and carefully, ensuring that each piece is free of damage before discarding packing materials.

If you hired professional movers, ask them to unpack the items for you, as they will know the safest way to remove items from crates or boxes. If you’re doing it yourself, make sure you have plenty of space and take your time.

10. Display Your Art and Antiques Safely in Your New Home

After your art and antiques have arrived safely, the final step is to display them properly. Make sure to hang heavy paintings or wall art using the right tools—picture hooks that can handle the weight and secure screws for heavier pieces. For freestanding antiques or sculptures, place them in areas where they are unlikely to be bumped or knocked over.

If your new home in Tucson has direct sunlight streaming in, be cautious about where you display sensitive items. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause fading or damage, so consider UV-protective glass for framed art or placing items away from windows.

Conclusion

Moving art and antiques in Tucson requires careful planning, specialized packing materials, and expert handling. Whether you’re moving across town or just a few miles, taking these steps will help ensure your treasured items arrive at their new home in pristine condition. With the right precautions, professional help, and attention to detail, you can move your valuables safely and confidently. For the best experience, consider trusting E-Z Move, Tucson’s top movers, to handle your most valuable possessions.