How to Pack Sculptures When Moving
Sculptures require distinctive care when it comes to handling and packing compared to other artwork and valuable items. Sculptures and statues can be easily damaged as they present very delicate objects. Proper packaging and wrapping are essential. If you are not quite sure how to pack the desired sculpture properly, check the following text.
Planning
Proper planning might seem like an unnecessary step. However, you’ll need some time to plan out the whole process. While planning decide whether or not you need expert help. If you have second thoughts, it would be best to hire a professional to avoid damaging the sculpture.
Step by step guide on how to pack sculptures when moving
Although every sculpture is relatively different in dimensions, the packing process is almost universal. The most important thing you can do is to concentrate on preventing damage during transport. Pack the sculpture appropriately and pick the right moving company.
First, make an inventory of all the valuables you own and take close up photos of each item. This way, you’ll have proof just in case movers cause some damage. Besides the precautionary measure, making an inventory will give you a clear idea of how much packing material is needed. Ask family and friends if they by any chance own some trustworthy packing and wrapping material.
Packing material
Materials and packing supplies required for packing sculptures include:
- Bubble-wrap
- A box bigger than the sculpture
- Tape
- Packing paper
The Size
The first step regarding packing is to identify the size of the sculpture. If it is possible, disassemble the statue as it will be much easier to pack this way. Pack every part separately as this option is the safest and guarantees safety. Also, smaller sculptures do not require disassembling and are reasonably easy to pack.
Wrapping
Next is to wrap the sculpture with the right wrapping material-most users report it would be best to use bubble wrap. However, you can also use newspaper or shredded paper.
- Make sure you wrap the upper part of the statue or sculpture a couple of times and then seal it with tape.
- Repeat the whole process on the bottom part of the object meaning to wrap it up accordingly and carefully seal with packing tape
- Do not forget to wrap the middle part of the sculpture and fill any gap that remains unprotected. Seal it with packing tape
- If you are done with the first layer, pack the whole statue in bubble wrap and seal it properly
- The next step requires you to fill up the remaining space and place it in the upright position inside the box or container.
- Fill up the empty space with paper (shredded paper or peanut paper will do the trick), which will create a buffer effect making it safe for transport
- Always check if the sculpture is moving. If the position is stable, you most likely did a good job
- Tape and label the box, meaning you need to shut the container and seal it. Do not forget to label the box as fragile. This way, movers will handle it with extra care lowering the risk of any damage.
Larger Sculptures
Larger sculptures are much harder to pack, meaning they are often too big to fit in a box. Some pieces can genuinely be excessive in size. However, the packing process is the same as for smaller statues and sculptures, only on a broader scale. Instead of newspaper and paper, use blankets and bubble wrap as wrapping material.
Pay attention and pack the statue in a blanket covering the whole surface. It would be best to use bubble wrap as the first layer positioning it beneath the blanket. This way, you’ll ensure maximum protection.
Caution
As mentioned before, larger sculptures are much harder to pack and easier to break because of the excessive dimensions. Make sure to cover every area of the statue with the proper wrapping and packing material. Check every angle and pay attention to the middle section. If needed, wrap the central part of the sculpture a couple of times. Unfortunately, you probably won’t find a proper box, so pack accordingly with extra care.
Hire Professional Movers
There is a wide range of moving companies out there. Check out the market thoroughly and explore all of the available options before you actually hire the insured movers NYC.
Keep in mind some certified companies offer discounts if you choose to move on specific days and periods. Avoid weekends and holidays as the price is much higher then. Be cautious as there are many shady movers, so pick a company with reliable customer service and a professional work ethic.
Insurance Policy
Also, getting an insurance policy might be the right thing if you are moving precious objects. This way, you won’t need to worry about breakage, theft, or any form of damage at all.
Summary
Generally, sculptures and statues are among the most valuable artwork- the main reason why it is crucial to handle the items mentioned above with extra care.
When it comes to packing, make sure you obtain the right packing and wrapping material and plan out the whole process on time. Although these objects vary in size, packing is almost universal with minor changes in terms of safety. However, larger sculptures require extra care and attention because larger items are way easier to break, and it is nearly impossible to find a proper container for them. Fortunately, some can be disassembled, meaning you can pack each piece separately, while small sculptures are the easiest to pack and move. As for the packing materials, you’ll need a couple of things, which include packing material (bubble wrap), a box, packing tape, and shredded paper.
Make sure to cover the sculpture’s whole surface with wrapping material and tape while paying extra attention to the middle section as it is the most vulnerable part of the object. Hiring professional service is always a preferable option as long as you pick a legit company.
Remember to take caution when choosing the right moving company since there are many shady companies out there.