Posted on September 15th, 2026

 

Safe transport for antiques and fine art requires double-walled boxes, acid-free tissue paper, and custom wooden crates for the most delicate pieces.

 

London homes often contain narrow hallways and steep stairs that increase the risk of accidental damage during a move.

 

We explain the specific methods and materials needed to move your valuables without risk to their condition or value.

 

Essential Packing Materials for Protecting Delicate Items

Standard cardboard boxes fail to provide the structural integrity needed for heavy bronzes or fragile porcelain. You must use double-walled corrugated boxes to prevent the base from collapsing under the weight of the item. We recommend lining the bottom of every container with a thick layer of crushed paper to act as a shock absorber during transit.

 

Acid-free tissue paper protects the surface of oil paintings and silver from chemical reactions that cause discolouration. Avoid using standard newspaper, as the ink transfers onto porous surfaces and ruins the finish of your antiques. Wrap each item individually before adding a secondary layer of bubble wrap to provide a cushioned barrier against impacts.

• Double-walled cardboard boxes for structural strength.
• Acid-free tissue paper to prevent surface tarnishing.
• High-grade bubble wrap for impact protection.
• Strong vinyl tape to secure all seams and corners.

 

Custom wooden crates offer the highest level of security for high-value sculptures or large mirrors. These bespoke containers prevent any movement within the box and shield the contents from external pressure. We confirm every crate is labelled with orientation arrows to keep the items upright throughout the process.

 

Why Proper Handling Techniques Matter for Fragile Goods

The way you lift and carry a piece of art determines its safety more than the packing alone. Stress fractures occur when handlers apply pressure to the weakest points of a frame or a ceramic handle. We always lift items from the base or the strongest part of the internal structure to distribute weight evenly.

 

Perspiration from skin can leave permanent marks on unvarnished wood or delicate metalwork. Wearing cotton gloves prevents oils from transferring onto the surface of your collection during the packing process. This small step protects the patina of your antiques and maintains their market value over time.

"The value of an antique rests in its original condition, so preventing even a minor scratch is our absolute priority during every move."

 

Clear communication between team members prevents accidents when navigating the tight corners of Hammersmith townhouses. We walk the route beforehand to identify potential hazards like loose rugs or low doorframes. Preparation reduces the time an item spends in transit and minimizes the opportunity for human error.

 

Three Ways to Secure Large Artworks Inside a Moving Van

Securing large canvases requires more than just leaning them against a wall. Sudden braking or sharp turns cause unsecured items to shift, leading to punctured canvases or broken frames. We use specific tethering points inside our vans to lock items into a fixed position.

1. Use heavy-duty ratcheting straps to pin crates against the van ribs.
2. Place non-slip rubber matting beneath large sculptures to stop sliding.
3. Install vertical plywood dividers to create separate bays for framed art.

 

Positioning is the second factor in a successful transport strategy. We never stack heavy boxes on top of containers holding fragile items, regardless of how sturdy the box feels. Placing art between soft items like mattresses or sofas provides an extra layer of vibration damping while the vehicle is in motion.

 

Temperature and humidity changes inside a vehicle can cause wood to warp or paint to crack. We plan the shortest possible route through London to limit the time your belongings spend in the van environment. Professional loading ensures air circulates around the items while they remain firmly anchored to the floor or walls.

 

Book Chiswick & Hammersmith Man and Van's Specialist Care

Our team understands the specific requirements for handling high-value collections and delicate heirlooms.

 

Book your next move with Chiswick & Hammersmith Man and Van to receive professional assistance with your most precious and fragile belongings.

 

We provide the right vehicles and equipment to confirm your items arrive in perfect condition.

 

Trust our experienced staff to manage the logistics of your move with precision and care.