You’ve loved your artwork, admired every brushstroke, and lived with it for ages. Now you’re moving. So how do you keep it safe on the journey? In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to pack artwork safely for your Kiwi move, with practical, no-stress tips that actually work.
Packing art isn’t something you should rush. With the right supplies, you’re halfway there.
Gather everything before you start. Being prepared makes packing smoother.
Before anything else, take clear photos of each piece. It’s your record in case of damage and helps you remember what’s what when unpacking.
Never bundle pieces together. Each artwork deserves its own layer of protection. Wrap them one at a time, so nothing rubs up against anything else.
If you’ve got framed pieces or mirrors, cross two strips of packing tape over the glass. This helps keep shards in place if anything breaks.
Unframed canvases are delicate. Apply a layer of glassine or wax paper to the front, taping only on the back or edges (not the canvas itself). This prevents your bubble wrap from smudging paint.
Corners take the brunt of any bump. Pop styrofoam or folded cardboard on each corner and tape it securely.
Wrap each piece in bubble wrap, snugly, but not too tightly. Double wrapping works if you've got the gear and want that extra layer of confidence.
Place your wrapped pieces upright in the box or crate, with stiff cardboard in between to prevent jostling. Fill any gaps with blanket or crumpled paper to make sure nothing moves.
Got works that are particularly valuable or need climate control, like oils that prefer certain temps or humidity levels? It might be worth chatting with a professional art mover, especially for long-distance relocations. This guide should give you confidence, but it doesn’t replace professional care for priceless pieces.
Moving around Aotearoa often means long drives on winding roads, ferry crossings, and the occasional wildlife surprise that can jolt your load. Keeping artwork upright, cushioned, and corner-protected is the best way to avoid dents, chips, or worse.
Pro tip from local movers: always go for double-walled or picture-specific boxes. Cheap supermarket cartons won’t hold up well. Some movers also use reusable wraps or heavy-duty cartons when they know the route will be rough.
Many art lovers say that even a small knock feels like a personal blow to their collection. Taking extra care when you pack helps protect not just the piece itself but also the meaning it carries.
Tape an “X” across the glass, cover with glassine or acid-free tissue, add corner protectors, then wrap in bubble wrap. Place upright in a picture/mirror box with cardboard spacers. For heavy frames, double-box for extra safety.
Glassine and acid-free tissue are available from suppliers like Conservation Supplies. Picture/mirror boxes can be found at Kennards Box Shop, and general moving supplies at Mitre 10 or Bunnings.
Yes, usually. Standard carrier cover is capped at about NZ$2,000 per item. For high-value art, ask movers about declared value cover or arrange separate transit insurance.
They help alert handlers, but couriers expect items to survive a 1.2m drop regardless. Always pack securely with rigid boxes and padding. For valuable works, a specialist art mover is best.
Packing artwork takes a bit more care than boxing up books or clothes, but it’s worth it. Give yourself time, protect each piece properly, and pack them upright so they travel safely. Once you’re in your new home, you’ll be able to hang your art without worrying about scratches, cracks, or broken glass.
If the idea of moving fragile or valuable pieces feels overwhelming, book the best movers across New Zealand who know how to handle artwork with care. Post your job once, compare quotes, and choose the right team for peace of mind on moving day.
Wise Move is New Zealand’s leading moving service, helping thousands of customers with home moves, furniture removals, car and motorcycle transport, and more. Since 2017, we’ve been delivering reliable, affordable, and well-reviewed moving services in just a few simple steps. Our focus has always been on making moving as simple and effortless as possible for our customers.
