How to Pack Picture Frames for Moving Safely and Easily

Moving to a new home or office is an exciting experience but it can also be stressful—especially when it comes to protecting fragile items like picture frames. Whether you're transporting valuable artwork, cherished family photos or decorative wall pieces, it's essential to pack your picture frames carefully to avoid damage such as cracked glass, chipped corners or scratched surfaces.

Proper packing not only ensures the safety of your frames but also gives you peace of mind during the move. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the best practices on how to pack picture frames for moving—using protective materials, labeling systems and organization tips that minimize risk and streamline the unpacking process. Let’s dive into the details so your picture frames arrive at your new space just as beautiful as they were before.

1. Gather the Right Packing Supplies

Before you begin packing, the first step is to collect all the essential supplies. Using the right materials will significantly reduce the risk of breakage and damage during transport.

You will need:

• Sturdy cardboard boxes (preferably frame/mirror boxes or telescopic boxes)

• Bubble wrap or foam sheets for cushioning

• Glassine paper or packing paper to protect surfaces

• Corner protectors (cardboard or plastic)

• Packing tape for sealing

• Stretch wrap or plastic film to secure the wrapping

• Labels or markers for identification

Choosing high-quality, durable packing materials may cost a bit more upfront but it’s a worthwhile investment to ensure the safety of your picture frames—especially if they’re valuable or irreplaceable.

2. Clean and Prepare the Frames

Once you have all your supplies ready, it’s time to prepare the picture frames. This step is often overlooked but it plays a vital role in protecting the contents during the move.

Start by:

• Dusting and wiping down each frame with a microfiber cloth. This prevents debris from scratching the glass or frame during packing.

• Removing any hanging hardware or nails to avoid damage to other items or injury during unpacking.

• Noting any existing damage by taking photos, especially if you're using a moving company. This can serve as a reference in case you need to file an insurance claim.

If the frame contains delicate artwork or photos, consider placing a layer of glassine paper directly over the image to prevent sticking or smudging.

3. Protect the Glass and Frame

After cleaning, the next critical step is protecting the most fragile part of the frame—the glass. If your picture frames have glass fronts, you'll want to take extra measures to prevent shattering or cracking.

Here’s how to do it properly:

• Place tape in an "X" shape across the glass surface using painter’s tape. This helps keep the glass in place if it does crack.

• Cover the entire front and back of the frame with a sheet of packing paper or foam sheet.

• Add corner protectors to absorb impact and shield the frame edges.

• Wrap the entire frame in bubble wrap, focusing on multiple layers around the corners and edges.

• Use plastic stretch wrap to keep the bubble wrap in place and prevent it from shifting during the move.

These layers create a protective barrier that cushions your frame from drops, pressure or bumps during transportation.

4. Box the Frames Correctly

Now that each frame is individually protected, the next step is boxing. The way you place frames in the box will significantly impact how well they withstand the move.

Follow these steps:

• Choose a box that is only slightly larger than the frame. A snug fit reduces movement and impact during transit.

• For large or valuable frames, use specialty frame boxes or telescopic mirror boxes that allow for height adjustment.

• Line the bottom of the box with crumpled paper or foam padding to create a shock-absorbing base.

• Place each wrapped frame in the box vertically, like records or books. Laying frames flat increases the chance of glass breaking under pressure.

• Separate multiple frames using cardboard dividers or foam sheets to prevent them from knocking against one another.

• Fill any remaining gaps with crumpled paper or foam peanuts to keep everything in place.

• Seal the box securely with strong packing tape, reinforcing the bottom and top seams.

5. Label and Handle with Care

Once the frames are packed, it’s crucial to label the boxes accurately to ensure movers—or even you—handle them with care.

Here’s what to include:

• Mark the box with “FRAGILE – PICTURE FRAMES” in bold letters.

• Add “This Side Up” arrows to indicate orientation.

• If a box contains especially valuable or sentimental frames, label it as “High Priority – Unpack First” to ensure it's handled with priority.

During the move, store the frame boxes upright and away from heavy items that could crush them. Make sure movers are aware of the fragile nature of the contents and if you’re doing the move yourself, pack the boxes last so they’re on top of heavier items.

6. Special Considerations for Large or Valuable Frames

If you have oversized, antique or artwork frames that are high in value, you’ll need to take extra precautions.

Here’s what to consider:

• Double-boxing is a smart method: Place the frame in one padded box, then place that box inside a slightly larger one with more padding between.

• For very large frames, consider custom crating or hiring a professional art mover for safe transport.

• If you’re storing frames for a period before unpacking, keep them in a climate-controlled environment to prevent moisture or warping.

Insurance may also be a wise consideration—particularly for one-of-a-kind or high-value frames—so be sure to check your mover’s insurance policy or add your own temporary coverage.

Conclusion

Packing picture frames for moving may seem tedious but taking the time to do it right is well worth the effort. From choosing the proper materials to wrapping and boxing each frame carefully, every step plays a part in keeping your framed art and photos safe during the journey. Whether you're moving across town or relocating to a new city, this guide ensures that your cherished memories arrive intact and ready to decorate your new space.

By following this thorough, step-by-step method, you not only protect your frames from damage but also save yourself the stress of unexpected repairs or replacements. Safe packing means a smoother, happier move—so don’t cut corners when it comes to your picture frames.