Good art packing begins with the work itself: its materials, condition, frame, size and journey. “Museum quality” should prompt specific questions about the proposed method, not be treated as a universal certification or a guarantee. For a Naples collection, have each unusual or valuable piece assessed before deciding how it should travel.

Assess condition before choosing materials

Record photographs, dimensions, existing damage and any instructions from the artist, gallery or conservator. Tell the estimator about flaking paint, loose frames, earlier repairs or fragile surfaces. Some works need stabilization before moving. The Canadian Conservation Institute’s paintings guidance recommends conservation advice where necessary and packing selected for the work’s fragility, handling and travel conditions.

Discuss wrapping, support and crating separately

Surface protection, cushioning and a rigid outer container do different jobs. Ask what may safely contact the object, how movement will be controlled and how the package will be handled. A painting, sculpture and framed photograph should not automatically receive identical materials. Do not apply tape, plastic or padding directly to a valuable surface without a suitable plan.

Custom crating can be useful for some items, but not every work needs the same enclosure. Ask who will design or supply it, what the price includes and who will open it at delivery. No crate makes transport damage impossible.

Plan the whole route

• Check doorways, stairs, lifts and the loading path.
• Agree who will remove the work from display and who will install it.
• Confirm vehicle and storage arrangements appropriate to the collection.
• Identify the person authorized to inspect and receive the work.
• Keep records and condition photographs accessible throughout the move.

Ask about storage and protection terms

If the work will be stored, discuss actual temperature and humidity management, access and the planned duration. General household storage may not meet a sensitive collection’s needs. Review shipment and storage protection, declared values, exclusions and any specialist insurance with the responsible provider. An appraisal helps document value but is not itself a coverage agreement.

Request a collection-specific estimate

Frank & Sons can discuss the moving scope and whether additional specialist services are needed. Supply photographs, dimensions, addresses and dates. Ask for packing, any crate, transport, storage and installation responsibilities to be itemized. National household averages in our moving price guide are background context, not a fine-art shipping tariff.

For a written estimate based on your inventory, access and dates, contact Frank & Sons or call (239) 574-4151.