Moving a painting isn’t just about wrapping it in bubble wrap and hoping for the best.
Whether you’re relocating a single canvas, an entire private collection, or precious gallery pieces, fine art moving requires precision, patience, and real know-how. Why? Because artwork isn’t just expensive — it’s often irreplaceable.
At B&B Movers, we’ve helped collectors, artists, museums, and interior designers move priceless items safely across Maryland, Washington DC, Northern Virginia, and far beyond.
In this guide, we break down the professional techniques we use to move fine art without damage — so you know exactly what it takes to keep your artwork safe.
Step 1: Understand the Type of Art You’re Moving
Not all art is created — or moved — the same.
Before packing anything, we assess:
- Material – canvas, glass, sculpture, metal, paper, textile
- Fragility – how sensitive is it to movement, moisture, vibration?
- Value – both financial and sentimental
- Size and shape – odd dimensions require custom crating
Knowing the art’s nature helps us choose the right protection method — not just a “one wrap fits all” approach.
Step 2: Use Museum-Grade Packing Materials
The foundation of any safe art move is the right materials.
Here’s what we use — and why it matters.
✅ For paintings and framed art:
- Glassine paper – protects against moisture and static
- Corner protectors – prevent crushing or bending
- Foam wrap + bubble wrap – double layer protection
- Custom-sized boxes or crates – no loose movement
✅ For sculptures or 3D artwork:
- Double-boxing with foam inserts
- Crating with internal suspension (for larger or fragile pieces)
- Non-abrasive cushioning to avoid scratches or rub marks
Pro tip: Never use newspapers — ink can transfer, and it offers no real padding.
Step 3: Build (or Order) a Custom Art Crate
For high-value or oversized items, we build custom crates from wood, fitted with foam, bracing, and shock-absorption layers.
Why custom crating?
- Prevents shifting during transit
- Controls humidity and vibration
- Meets shipping regulations for air or long-distance truck moves
- Adds peace of mind (especially for long routes or storage)
At B&B Movers, we crate on-site or in our facility depending on the client’s needs. We also offer climate-controlled storage for art in transit.
Step 4: Load and Transport With Precision
Packing is only half the equation. Safe transport requires:
- Secured loading zones to avoid weather and environmental exposure
- Liftgates and ramps for stable handling
- Air-ride suspension trucks to reduce road shock
- Tiedown systems and shock-absorbent flooring
- Solo loading for ultra-valuable items (not stacked with general cargo)
And importantly: our crews know how to handle art.
No tossing, stacking, or leaning — ever.
Step 5: Monitor and Document Everything
Professional art movers document every step.
At B&B Movers, we provide:
- Itemized condition reports pre- and post-move
- Photo documentation of each piece
- Labeling and tracking to avoid mix-ups
- Optional insurance or coverage valuation
For high-profile clients, we also offer discreet handling and white-glove delivery — with minimal disruption and total privacy.
Where We Work — and Where We Move Art
Based in Maryland, we serve the entire DMV area:
- Private collectors in Bethesda, Rockville, Potomac
- Art galleries and studios in Washington DC
- Interior designers and estates in Northern Virginia
- Long-distance moves to NYC, Miami, LA, or overseas (via partner networks)
Whether it’s a local relocation or a cross-country shipment, we tailor every fine art move to your piece, your space, and your timeline.
Quick Checklist: Safe Art Moving in 7 Steps
- Assess the artwork — material, size, fragility
- Choose proper wrapping based on medium
- Build or buy a custom crate
- Use high-grade, non-abrasive materials
- Avoid stacking or direct contact with other cargo
- Document everything — before and after
- Hire a mover who understands fine art, not just furniture
Moving fine art safely isn’t about “extra care” — it’s about entirely different care.
You need professionals who understand not just how to move, but how to move art. At B&B Movers, we combine years of moving expertise with real-world experience protecting fine artwork across all stages of relocation.
We don’t treat your pieces like cargo — we treat them like they belong in a gallery. Because often, they do.
📞 Have fine art to move in Maryland, DC, or Northern Virginia?
Contact B&B Movers for secure, discreet, and professional fine art moving services — with museum-level standards.