The finest protection

We go the extra mile to ensure that all of your belongings are protected. Our expert packing methods start with only using the highest quality moving & packing materials. From specialized boxes and crates for each type of item, to double layered blankets for extra protection. We hold weekly mover training classes ensure every team member can safely pack each item so that they will arrive in the same condition.

Photo inventory

A best practice for moving art and antique items is noting & photographing each item before they are packed. At Kinetics Moving, you can request our movers to take a photo inventory or you can easily take photos too. A bespoke inventory list will also be provided along with your photos to document your items before the move.

Our Art Moving Process

Whether you have oil on canvases, framed photos, sculptures or glass covered aquarels, your artwork collection has monetary, as well as sentimental value. Even if you are moving to a smaller home, your collection will find its place. The basic principles we go by when packaging these special fragile items, is to protect the item itself and pad the box.

At Kinetics Moving, we understand that each work of art is unique and deserves special handling and packing. For instance, Oil paintings should always be loaded on their sides, not flat. We wrap oil paintings that aren’t protected by a glass in clear non-patterned non-acidic plastic wrap, wax paper, or glassine first; and we don’t use bubble wrap directly on the exposed canvas, as these products can leave impressions in the oil paint. If necessary, It may even be beneficial to put spacers at the corners of the frames so there’s a small amount of space between the pictures’ surface and the plastic wrap.

Depending on the artwork’s size, weight, shape, and medium, art shippers choose the right packing materials and boxes to ensure the transported object will withstand the rigors of the moving process.

PACKING AND CRATING FINE ART

We will work with you to determine the optimal packing solution for each unique piece based on its composition and size. This solution may include using one or more of the following proven methods:

  • Use of durable, corrugated boxes and high-quality packing tape to ensure the integrity of the box during the move

  • Wrapping paintings in non-abrasive, breathable materials that protect the painting’s surface while mitigating the risk of mold or mildew growth

  • Custom crating for oversized or unusually-shaped sculptures, ceramics, or antiques

  • Taping glass frames to prevent shattering and constructing cardboard frames to keep artwork in place during transit

TRANSPORT & HANDLING OF ART

Just as we do with every move, we will treat your fine art with the utmost care, as if it was our own. From marking the boxes and crates with the appropriate labels to indicate their contents, to taking extra precautions when loading the truck, we’ll take every step necessary to ensure the safe transport of your artwork and sculptures. Whether you’re moving artwork from Chelsea to the New Rochelle or from Manhattan to another state, Kinetics Moving will treat your art as if it were ours.

TIPS FOR MOVING AND TRANSPORTING YOUR FINE ART

Americans have approximately six billion paintings, photographs, sculptures, and other fine works of art adorning their walls and halls, according to Robert Klonoski, a contributor to artbusiness.com. When it comes time to relocate, these art collections require special care. It’s advisable that you hire a professional relocation service, like Kinetics Moving & Storage, that is accustomed to handling fine art, especially if your collection contains large sculptures or particularly delicate artworks.

If, however, you choose to do some or all of the packing and transportation yourself, here are some tips you should consider when doing so:

  • For extra protection, before wrapping art that is covered with glass, use painter’s tape to tape across the front of the glass with an X. If for some reason the glass should crack or shatter, this will help to keep it in place so that the broken pieces do not cut, scratch, or otherwise harm the art underneath.

  • To reduce static cling, use a piece of heavy cardboard, foam, or mat board to cover the front of glass-framed artwork before bubble wrapping it.

  • Use adjustable size picture boxes and insert only one item per box. Appropriately sized boxes reduce movement and thereby, the risk of damage to your pieces.

  • Be sure to transport fine art upright. Do not lay art on its side or flat in the truck. Also, be careful not to put anything on top of it that may crush it and cause damage.

  • Make sure your artwork is secure in the truck so that it won’t fall over in the case of sudden stops or bumps along the way.

  • Avoid packing materials that contain acid, as these may damage artwork composed of specific materials.

  • Wrap sculptures thoroughly in bubble wrap and seal with packing tape. If possible, take apart your sculptures for easier transport and wrap the bottom section an additional time or two.

  • If possible, transport sculptures in crates padded by foam, not in traditional moving boxes. Use a crate that is slightly larger than the piece to allow room for additional padding.

  • Create a moisture barrier to protect against humidity. To do so, line your crate or box with bubble wrap or insulation paper before placing your art inside.

  • Write “Fragile” on all boxes or crates that contain fine art.