Best Way to Pack Framed Pictures for Moving Without Breaking Them

Packers and Movers Tips
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Picture frames, especially those with glass, mirrors and delicate detailing, need extra protection when moving. The best way to pack them is to place painter’s tape in an X across the glass, cover the frame with packing paper, protect the corners with cardboard or foam, and finish with a layer of bubble wrap. The wrapped frame should then be placed upright in a sturdy box with enough cushioning. While packing it yourself can save you money, hiring professional packers and movers can help prevent damage and move your belongings easily. This blog will tell you the best way to pack framed pictures for moving, along with tips for extra protection.
What You Will Need to Wrap Up a Picture Frame
Because picture frames are often fragile, especially those made with glass, they require special packing. You will need these materials to wrap up a picture frame:
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- Good-quality packing paper
- Cardboard or foam corner protectors
- Packing tape
- Sturdy or customised moving boxes for framed artwork
- Labels or stickers
- Bubble wrap for an added layer of padding.
How to Prepare Your Picture Frame For Moving
You will need to prepare your picture frame before wrapping it to protect it from cracks, scratches, or breaking during moving. You can prepare your picture frame for moving through the following steps:
- Remove the frame from the wall
- Remove loose hooks or hanging hardware and pack them separately
- Clean and dry the frame
- Check the glass and frame for any existing damage.
How to Wrap Up a Picture Frame?
A picture frame needs to be packed properly to protect its glass, frame, and corners from cracks, scratches, and other damage which can occur during the move. It can be done through the following steps:
- Step 1: Tape the glass properly: Use painter’s tape to make an X across the glass. This helps hold the glass together if it cracks during transit.
- Step 2: Wrap the frame: Place the frame on a flat surface and wrap it completely with good-quality packing paper. Fold the paper neatly around the frame like a gift and seal it with packing tape.
- Step 3: Protect the corners with cardboard or foam: Place cardboard or foam corner protectors over all four corners to protect the frame.
- Step 4: Cover with bubble wrap: Wrap the paper-covered frame in bubble wrap so that all the sides and edges are covered. Then add a layer of bubble wrap with tape without sticking it directly to the frame.
- Step 5: Place the frame in a cardboard box: Place the wrapped-up frame in a sturdy cardboard box with sufficient cushioning around it. Fill all gaps so that the frame has no space to shift during the move, then seal the box with packing tape.
- Step 6: Label it as delicate: Label the box as Fragile or Handle With Care so the mover knows to give extra care during loading, transportation, and unloading.
How to Wrap Different Types of Picture Frames
Depending on the material, size and design of the picture frame, different packaging is required for different frames. Here’s how you can wrap different types of picture frames:
| Frame Type | How to Wrap? |
| Glass picture frame | Wrap with packing paper and bubble wrap, then place in a cardboard box |
| Wooden frame | Wrap with bubble wrap and add cardboard corner protection |
| Large frame | Use extra cardboard, edge protection, and cushioning |
| Ornate or antique frame | Wrap with acid-free tissue paper followed by bubble wrap, with extra corner protection |
| Canvas frame | Wrap with packing paper and bubble wrap to protect the canvas and frame |
| Mirror frame | Protect the glass with painter’s tape and cardboard, then wrap in bubble wrap and then place in a box. |
How to Transport a Wrapped Picture Frame Safely
Once your picture frame is wrapped, you can then transport it safely by loading it vertically and placing it upright against a stable surface rather than laying it flat on the vehicle. Sandwich it between a soft mattress or sofa, with the glass facing inward or away from direct impact. Keep the frame safe so it cannot slide or fall, and don’t place any heavy items on top of it. Make sure to keep it away from moisture, direct sunlight, and other items that can scratch or damage the frame.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Wrapping Picture Frames
Picture frames, especially those made of glass or with delicate detailing, can be easily damaged if not wrapped and handled properly. The most common mistakes with same include:
- Leaving the glass unprotected
- Using newspaper directly against the frame or glass
- Taping directly onto the frame
- Not using corner protectors
- Stacking frames face-to-back without a protective layer between them
- Leaving empty spaces in the box so the frame has no space to shift
- Placing heavy items on top of the packed frame, as it increases the chance of the frame getting damaged.
Protect Your Picture Frame with NoBroker
Fragile picture frames, such as those made with glass, are prone to cracks, scratches, and damage. NoBroker’s professional packers and movers can help reduce this risk through the following services:
- 100+ cities covered: Our packing and moving services are available PAN-India across 100+ cities. This makes intercity and interstate moves easier, more convenient and accessible.
- 10+ years of experience: With over 10 years of experience in packing and moving, we have expertise in handling different types of household belongings, be it fragile picture frames or costly electronic items.
- Professional packing & moving: Our trained packers use high-quality packing materials and techniques to provide added protection for high-value and delicate items.
- Damage & delay protection: Our experts handle everything with options for comprehensive protection and minimal damage. These protection options provide coverage against specified damage or delays during your move.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wrap a picture frame in a blanket instead of bubble wrap?
How do you pack multiple picture frames together?
How do you protect a picture frame from rain during a move?
About the Author

Yumna Ahmed
Senior Editor
Yumna is a passionate content writer who craft clear, engaging and informative content, especially in the packers and movers space. From shifting tips to relocation checklists and city-specific moving guides, she crafts content that simplifies moving for people across India. Outside work, she likes travelling, bonding with animals & fashion....
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