How To Pack Picture Frames When Moving

Learning how to pack picture frames when moving is essential if you want your favorite photos and prints to arrive without cracks, chips, or broken glass. These pieces often carry memories, so protecting them is just as important as protecting furniture or electronics.
With a little planning and the right materials, you can safeguard frames of all sizes during local or long distance moves. Montford Movers works with delicate household items every day, and as professional movers in Sun City, SC, our teams use proven methods to keep framed artwork and photos safe from start to finish.
If you are preparing for an upcoming move, this guide walks you through the same careful approach our crews rely on when handling fragile decor.

Gather The Right Supplies Before You Start

Before packing any frame, set up a work area with all the supplies you need. This typically includes sturdy boxes, packing paper, bubble wrap, painter’s tape, corner protectors, foam sheets, and strong packing tape so you do not have to stop midway.
Choose boxes slightly larger than the frames you plan to pack so you have room for padding on every side. If you are boxing a large collection, such as 320 small picture frames, use several smaller boxes instead of one heavy carton to keep lifting safe and prevent crushing.

Prepare Picture Frames For Packing

Take each picture frame off the wall and remove any nails, hooks, or hanging wire that might scratch other pieces during the move. Place this hardware in small labeled bags so you can quickly rehang everything once you arrive at your new home.
Dust frames and glass lightly to remove loose particles that could cause scratches. If a frame is very fragile or valuable, consider taking a quick photo of it before wrapping so you have a reference for condition and an easy reminder of how it looked on your previous wall.

How To Pack Picture Frames With Glass

Glass is the most vulnerable part of many frames, so extra steps go a long way. Begin by placing painter’s tape in a large X across the glass to help hold shards together if a crack occurs. This simple step can prevent loose pieces from damaging photos or artwork inside.
Next, cover the glass surface with packing paper or a foam sheet and tape it gently on the back so the front remains fully covered. Wrap the entire frame in several layers of bubble wrap, paying close attention to edges and corners, and secure the wrapping with tape without sticking tape directly to the frame.

Smart Tips For Framed Glass Protection

Always pack glass-front frames upright rather than laying them flat in a box.
Separate each frame with cardboard or foam sheets so surfaces do not rub.
Fill gaps in the box with crumpled paper so frames do not slide or lean.

Packing Wooden, Metal, And Decorative Frames

Wooden, metal, and ornate frames can be just as delicate as glass, especially at carved or raised areas. After dusting them, wrap each frame in packing paper first to protect finishes, then add a layer of bubble wrap for cushioning against bumps and pressure.
If a frame has sharp or pointed corners, add extra padding around those points so they do not cut through wrapping or damage other items.

Choosing The Right Box For Picture Frames

Selecting proper boxes is a major part of mastering how to pack picture frames when moving. Artwork or mirror boxes are ideal because they are shaped for flat items, but any sturdy box with the right dimensions can work if combined with enough padding.
Use small or medium boxes for most frames rather than large, deep boxes that become too heavy. Place a soft layer of crumpled paper or foam at the bottom, then stand frames upright like books on a shelf.

How To Pack Multiple Picture Frames In One Box

Packing several frames in a single box saves space, but every piece still needs individual protection. After wrapping each frame, line them up side by side, alternating larger and smaller pieces so the box fills evenly and there are no big gaps.
Slide cardboard or foam sheets between frames to keep them from touching. Once the box is mostly full, fill remaining spaces with crumpled paper so nothing shifts.

Protecting Extra Large Or Oversized Frames

Oversized frames or large pieces of wall art need special attention because their size exposes them to more stress during a move. For these items, double wrapping and double boxing are often smart options, creating layers that absorb impacts before they reach the frame or glass.
Oversized pieces should also be loaded carefully in the moving truck, secured against solid surfaces and kept away from heavy items that could shift during transit.

When Professional Packing Can Help

There are situations where expert help makes a big difference, especially during high-value moves or tight timelines:

Extra large or unusually shaped frames that are difficult to handle alone
High-value artwork, heirlooms, or antique picture frames with delicate finishes
Entire gallery walls or large collections requiring careful coordination

In these cases, using experienced crews who provide moving services in Hilton Head Island can reduce risk and simplify the entire process, especially for homes with valuable decor or coastal properties.

How To Pack Picture Frames Without Glass

Some frames use acrylic instead of glass, while others expose the artwork directly. Acrylic is less likely to shatter, but it scratches easily, so avoid rough materials. Wrap these pieces in soft packing paper first, then add bubble wrap on top.
If the artwork surface is exposed, such as a canvas or textured print, ensure nothing touches it directly. Foam sheets or non-abrasive paper work best before adding outer cushioning.

Labeling And Organizing Picture Frame Boxes

Clear labeling makes unpacking and reassembly much easier. Mark each box as “Fragile” and “Picture Frames,” then add the destination room. You can also number boxes and keep a short inventory list so important frames are easy to find first.

Unpacking Picture Frames After The Move

Unpack picture frames in a safe, open area where nothing can be stepped on or tipped over. Remove padding carefully, check each frame, and make minor adjustments before rehanging.
Lay frames out to test arrangements and create fresh gallery walls in your new home.

How Montford Movers Treat Your Picture Frames

Montford Movers understands that picture frames represent memories, milestones, and personal style. Our crews use padded materials, smart box selection, and careful loading techniques to protect frames from the first wrap to the final unload.
As a trusted moving company serving Bluffton and the surrounding Lowcountry, we regularly handle delicate decor, artwork, and family photo collections.

Ready To Move Your Memories Safely

If you are still unsure about packing a full wall of photos or valuable art, you are not alone. Many homeowners prefer extra guidance when handling fragile items.
When you are ready to move with confidence—whether relocating locally or using our moving services in Margaritaville—Montford Movers is here to help. Contact our team at sales@montfordmovers.com or call (912) 793-1630 to discuss options tailored to your home and timeline.

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