A Guide to Art Handling: How to Move and Store Artwork Safely.

A Quick Guide to Moving and Storing Art Without Panic

Art isn’t just décor. It’s personal. It holds memories, makes statements, and sometimes, comes with a price tag that makes your heart skip. But here’s the catch: art is delicate. One wrong move and you’re staring at a scratched frame, a cracked sculpture, or a warped canvas that’ll never quite look the same again.

Whether you're a collector, a gallery or someone who just really loves their pieces, proper art handling isn't just a bonus. It’s a must.

What is Art Handling?

Art handling is the specialist service of packing, moving, installing, and storing artwork or fragile objects. It takes trained professionals, the right materials, and a whole lot of attention to detail. We're talking about everything from canvases and sculptures to antiques and photography.

Why Proper Art Handling Matters

Art faces real risks every time it’s moved or put into storage

• Physical damage like scratches, dents or broken frames.
• Environmental threats from heat, humidity or light exposure.
• Incorrect packing or clumsy lifting techniques.
• Insurance gaps or poor documentation.

Professional art handling helps preserve both the piece and its value—sentimental or financial.

Thinking about moving artwork?

We offer specialist packing and secure storage tailored to fragile and valuable pieces. Get in touch for advice or a quick quote.

What a Good Art Handler Actually Does

Custom Packing and Crating

‍Every piece gets its own plan. That might include acid-free paper, foam supports, or custom-built crates that stop any kind of shifting or pressure damage.

A Team That Knows What They're Doing

Oil on canvas is different from mixed media or glass. Trained art handlers understand how different materials react to movement, pressure or even temperature changes.

Climate-Conscious Transport

Art can react badly to hot vans or damp environments. Many professionals offer climate-controlled vehicles that keep temperature and humidity levels stable.

Safe Storage Options

Sometimes art needs to wait, maybe during a renovation or international move. Short- or Long-term, storage should be secure and stable, often with climate control too.

Confidential and Fully Insured Service

A good handler works discreetly, with the right insurance in place so you're covered at every stage.

When to Use Professional Art Handling Services

• Moving house or relocating abroad
• Renovating or staging your space
• Installing or taking down an exhibition
• Sending art for appraisal, auction or restoration
• Storing pieces during a trip, renovation or seasonal shift.

Choosing the Right Art Handling Partner

Ask potential providers:

• Do they have experience with your kind of art?
• Can they build custom crates and use museum-grade materials?
• Are their team members trained in specialist handling?
• Do they offer climate-controlled transport and storage?
• What does their insurance and confidentiality process look like?

You want a team that treats your art like it's one of a kind—because it is.

Art is Personal. Handle it That Way.

Whether it’s a family heirloom, an investment, or something that just makes you smile—every artwork has a story. Proper handling protects more than the object. It protects the meaning behind it.

Need help with art handling?

As a specialist moving and storage company based in Ireland, we offer expert, white glove services for packing, moving and storing art and valuables.

If you're planning a move or want advice on how best to protect your collection, feel free to reach out. We're happy to help.

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