Tips for packing and moving sculptures
Moving to your new home can make you realize just how many valuable items you have. And we do not talk only about the financial value of the items. Art is a form of expression that we simply enjoy observing. So, when the time comes for packing and moving sculptures we understand if you feel uneasy about it. This is precisely why we have decided to create this useful guide on safely relocating your sculptures. We recommend that you take into consideration the best moving and storage companies for this task as well – they will know how to safely relocate fine art.
Gather high-quality packing supplies for packing and moving sculptures
Ask yourself how many sculptures you own and what is their size. Gather all the sculptures and place them in one room where you will be doing all the packing. This will help you assess just how much of the packing supplies you will need. Then, head off to the nearest improvement or DIY store to get what you need.
- Moving boxes – The size of the moving boxes depends on the size of the sculptures. They should be slightly bigger than the sculpture itself. What does really matters is that they are high-quality, sturdy moving boxes that will not tear down due to the weight of the item. Have this in mind if you are getting moving boxes for free.
- Bubble wrap – Bubble wrap is an indispensable part of the packing supplies. Get the whole roll of the bubble wrap for your sculptures as it will provide a high level of protection.
- Newspaper – You can find an old newspaper at your home, just make sure that you have enough of it, as you will need to crumble it for protection.
- Moving blankets – If your sculptures cannot fit inside a regular moving box, you will need to get moving blankets for protection. Note that you can use your old blankets as well for this occasion.
- Tape – High-quality tape will go a long way when it comes to packing and moving sculptures.
- Permanent marker – You will use it to label the boxes, so make sure it is water-proof.
Start packing sculptures for relocation
After you have gathered all the packing material, you can start preparing your sculptures for relocation. As we already mentioned, the process will be easier if you have placed all the sculptures in one place. Another thing that will make your relocation much easier is hiring the Master Moving Guide company to find you the best movers for sculpture relocation if you do not have the time to do it yourself.
Prepare the box before packing and moving sculptures
You will not just place the sculptures inside the box without previous preparation. Remember that sculptures are on the list of most likely items to get damaged during a move. Crush several sheets of old newspaper. Place them at the bottom of the box. If you want, you can place packing peanuts or shredded paper here. However, crushed newspapers are a far cheaper option, which will provide for the same level of protection.
Wrap the sculptures carefully
Take one sculpture at the time and start wrapping them in bubble wrap. Ideally, you should wrap the bottom and the upper part of the sculpture separately. Roll the bubble wrap around the upper part of the item. Secure it with the best tape for packing you have so that the bubble wrap does not move during relocation. Then, move on to the bottom part of the sculpture and repeat the process. In order not to leave even an inch of the item unattended, you should also wrap the middle part where the bottom and the top meet. Secure it with tape as well, and you are finished.
Large sculptures
When it comes to large sculptures, the best way to pack them for relocation is to wrap them in a moving blanket. Needless to say, you need to secure it with plenty of tape. If possible, you can disassemble the sculpture and pack it in separate moving boxes. However, since this does not happen often, moving blankets are the best way to go. When it comes to relocating large items, we recommend using the services of senior movers, if you do not have someone to help you.
Seal the moving boxes
Carefully place the sculptures inside the moving boxes in order to finish the packing and moving sculptures process. Fill the bottom of the moving box with crushed newspaper as well as any empty space inside the box. In order to test whether you have packed the boxes properly, you should gently rattle them back and forth. If the sculpture is moving inside, you should add more cushioning and another layer of bubble wrap. On the other hand, if you do not hear any movement inside, the moving box is ready for relocation. Just make sure to apply tape at the bottom and the top of the box, to prevent it from opening during transport.
You are ready to relocate the sculptures now
Once your sculptures are properly packed, you are ready to relocate them. Packing is just one side of the coin here, and it is very important that the transport goes smoothly. It is best to use a furniture dolly when you want to take the sculptures from your house to the moving truck. Once inside the truck, you should place them vertically instead of laying them down on the floor. Make sure that nothing can fall down on the moving boxes containing sculptures. Place them between heavy items that will prevent the boxes from moving.
As you can see, packing and moving sculptures is not that hard. But it requires a great deal of patience and skill. Always remember that you can hire professional movers if necessary. Good luck!