Moving day is approaching, and you’re staring at your walls, wondering—how to pack photos for moving without damaging them. Whether it’s family portraits, vintage movie posters, or cherished art prints, your pictures hold both emotional and financial value. That’s why packing them the right way is non-negotiable.
Unlike furniture or clothing, pictures—especially large framed ones—are fragile, oddly shaped, and prone to shattering if not packed with care. But worry not! With the right packing supplies and a step-by-step method of moving photo frame pictures, you can protect your artwork like a pro.
Let’s break down the best way to pack pictures, framed artwork, and posters for a safe and secure move.
Packing Supplies Which Are Required To Pack Pictures For Moving?
Gather all the packing supplies before proceeding with packing pictures for moving. Large pictures or fine art moving requires more tender loving care as compared to everyday items. Here is the list of correct materials to save you time and keep unnecessary damage at bay –
- Packing Paper
- Bubble Wrap
- Corner Protectors
- Cardboard Sheets
- Permanent Markers
- Thick Moving Blankets and Towel
All these materials create a buffer and keep your pictures intact during the move—especially crucial during interstate relocations where boxes may be stacked or jostled multiple times over longer distances.
How to Pack Large Pictures For Moving: 7 Easy Steps
How to pack photos for moving requires some care and attention to detail. Here’s a step-by-step guide that ensures your art, mirrors, or photographs reach their new destination without a scratch.
Lay down a thick blanket on a flat surface
The first step in how to pack photos for moving is to find a clean, flat surface to fit your photos, frames, and packing materials. The flat surface could be a dining table or floor. Lay down a thick blanket, towel, or padded surface. This acts as a cushioning layer to avoid direct contact with hard surfaces. Place your framed picture face down to prevent damage to the glass or print surface.
Close One End Of The Mirror Box
To pack pictures for moving, use a telescoping mirror box or picture box that’s slightly bigger than your frame. Tape one end securely to create the bottom of the box. These boxes are specifically designed to hold artwork and for the purpose of antique moving, so don’t skimp on quality here. The tighter and sturdier the fit, the better the protection.
Wrap The Large Picture Frame With Packing Paper
When it comes to how to pack large pictures for moving, wrap the large picture frame with packing paper or bubble wrap, making sure to cover the entire surface. This will provide extra protection against scratches and damage and if it is a long-distance move, consider wrapping again with a moving blanket for extra security.
Insert It Into The Box
The next step in packing pictures for moving is inserting your photos inside the box. Carefully slide the wrapped picture into the box. If you’re using a telescoping box, adjust the top half so it snugly fits over the bottom. Avoid forcing it—if it doesn’t fit, use a larger box to prevent pressure and cracks.
Stuff The Empty Space in The Box With Packing Paper
Use crumpled packing paper or soft foam sheets to fill any empty space around the frame. This prevents the picture from shifting during transit. Make sure all sides—especially the corners—are cushioned to absorb shocks and vibrations.
Pack The Box By Taping It
Once the picture is securely inside and the gaps are stuffed, seal the top of the box with high-quality packing tape. Reinforce all seams, including corners, with extra tape. This ensures the box doesn’t open or weaken during the move.
Don’t Forget To Label the Box As Fragile
The final step is labeling the moving boxes. Label the boxes on all sides with “FRAGILE: PICTURE INSIDE” using a permanent marker. Also, note which side is up, especially if there’s a specific orientation. This alert will help movers handle the box with extra care.
How To Pack Unframed Posters and Pictures?
Not all artwork comes in bulky frames. If you’re moving picture frame boxes, posters, prints, or unframed photos, you’ll need a slightly different approach. These materials are thinner and more prone to creasing or tearing, so extra attention is key.
When you pack pictures for moving, start by laying the poster or unframed picture flat on a clean surface. Place a protective sheet—like a piece of acid-free tissue paper or parchment—on top of the print to prevent smudges or scratches. Then, roll it gently from one end, ensuring you’re not creasing the material.
Slip the rolled poster into a sturdy cardboard tube, available at most office supply or shipping stores. Make sure the tube caps are secure on both ends. For added protection, tape the ends and label the outside with “Poster: Do Not Crush.”
If you’d rather not roll it (especially for high-value prints), consider placing the poster between two sheets of cardboard and taping around the edges to create a sandwich. This flat-pack method works best when the poster is being transported short distances or handled by professionals.
Final Thoughts
Packing pictures for moving isn’t just about keeping them safe—it’s about preserving your memories, your investment, and your personal style. Whether it’s an oversized canvas or a delicate art print, the right technique and tools can make all the difference in “how to pack large pictures for moving.”
And here’s the best part—you don’t have to do it alone.
Big Apple Moving has years of experience in helping families, professionals, and businesses relocate safely—especially when fragile items like art, mirrors, and pictures are involved. From full-service packing to professional-grade materials, we ensure every piece arrives just the way you remember it.
Get a free quote today and leave the heavy lifting—and careful packing—to us!