How to Pack Photos, Albums & Picture Frames

Packing Framed Pictures and Art

Start by taping an "X" across the glass with painter's tape — if the glass breaks during transit, the tape holds the shards together and prevents them from scratching the photo or artwork underneath. Then wrap the entire frame in packing paper followed by a layer of bubble wrap. Secure with tape but avoid taping directly on the frame's finish.

Pack framed pictures vertically in a box, like vinyl records, with cardboard dividers between each frame. Never lay them flat and stack other items on top. For large or valuable pieces, use telescoping mirror boxes available at Home Depot or U-Haul in Montreal — they adjust to fit various frame sizes and provide maximum protection.

Protecting Photo Albums and Loose Prints

Photo albums are heavier than they look, so use small or medium boxes. Wrap each album in packing paper and pack them upright. For loose prints and photos, place them between sheets of acid-free tissue paper and slide them into a rigid folder or between two pieces of cardboard taped together. This prevents bending, which is especially important during humid Montreal summers when paper absorbs moisture.

Canvas Art and Mirrors

Canvas paintings should never be wrapped in bubble wrap directly — the texture can imprint on the paint surface. Instead, place a sheet of glassine paper or parchment paper over the painted surface, then wrap the entire piece in a moving blanket. For mirrors, use the painter's tape X method on the glass, wrap in paper and bubble wrap, and pack in a mirror box. Mark all boxes containing glass as "FRAGILE — GLASS" and tell your Montreal movers to load them upright against the truck wall, never flat under other boxes.