Moving house
Advice for preparing antique furniture for moving to preserve patina, joints, and surfaces.
When moving cherished antiques, careful planning protects patina, preserves joinery, and minimizes damage by prioritizing stabilization, climate considerations, padding, and proper handling throughout the journey from home to new residence.
Published by
Frank Miller
August 07, 2025 - 3 min Read
Antique furniture carries a record of craft and time, so preparation for moving should begin with respect for its materials and construction. Start by assessing each piece for loose joints, sticking drawers, and delicate inlays. Tighten any visible screws, test stability gently, and note areas of wear that might need extra protection. Clean surfaces with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove dust without abrading finishes. If wax or oil finishes exist, avoid aggressive cleaners that can soften patinas. For painted surfaces, assess flaking paint and consider a temporary sealant or stabilized padding beneath fragile sections. Document unique features and serial marks to preserve provenance, and decide on disassembly strategies that won’t compromise historical integrity.
Before packing, establish a catalog of each item’s dimensions, weight, and handling requirements. Measure doors, stairways, and elevator access to ensure clear routes and minimize last-minute surprises. Create a fixture plan for large pieces, such as removing drawers or shelving that could shift during transit, while carefully labeling all components that require reassembly. Use corner protectors made of soft foam and thick blankets to cushion edges without abrading surfaces. For marble or stone surfaces, cover with a two-layer protection: a soft blanket first, then a rigid board to distribute weight. Keep a list of preferred climate conditions for the pieces, noting humidity-sensitive items that might need gradual acclimation upon arrival.
Move with care by coordinating teams and respecting each piece’s limits.
When disassembling portions of antique furniture, do so with care and a plan. Photograph joints and hardware before removal to guide reassembly. Place reclaimed screws and small fittings in labeled, airtight bags to prevent loss and corrosion. Avoid over-tightening connectors on reassembly; hand-tighten to the snug stage with a gentle test fit. For items with veneers or inlays, avoid prying by using non-marking tools and soft supports. Store disassembled parts in a single, labeled container to minimize misplacement. If any component seems unstable, consider professional stabilization or a temporary brace that won’t compromise the piece’s aesthetic or structural integrity. Return hardware after scrutiny to prevent mismatches.
Pack surfaces with layers designed to distribute weight evenly and prevent hot spots that could crack finishes. Use acid-free wrapping that allows breathability for aged wood, and avoid plastic wrap directly on surfaces that need to vent moisture. Pad corners thoroughly to absorb impact from jostling corners or door frames. Position heavier items lower in the moving vehicle to maintain a stable center of gravity. Maintain a climate-controlled environment during transit if possible; fluctuations can cause warping or finish crazing over hours or days. Upon arrival, inspect promptly for any signs of moisture, cracking, or loosened joints, and address issues before unloading more pieces that could exacerbate a problem.
Preserve patina and joinery by balancing protection with environment.
Engaging a small crew that understands antique handling reduces risk. Brief movers on special care requirements, such as avoiding dragging legs across floors or stacking pieces that could collapse. Assign a lead who will check each piece’s condition before and after loading. Use stretch wrap conservatively, ensuring it does not trap moisture or leave residues on delicate finishes; prefer non-abrasive materials and breathable wraps whenever possible. Maintain clear communication about timing so pieces aren’t exposed to dust or temperature swings longer than necessary. Provide clean, dry spaces at each staging point to prevent cheap, reactive surfaces from staining or denting the furniture. Document any changes in condition for later reference.
Environmental awareness is essential when moving older wood. Sudden humidity changes can cause movement, cracking, or glue failure, especially in cases where joints are already weakened. If you must store pieces, choose a climate-stable area with controlled humidity and avoid basements or crawl spaces that collect damp air. Use dehumidifiers or humidifiers to maintain a steady range, and monitor conditions with small, portable meters. Maintain minimal exposure to direct sun during transport to prevent finish fading or drying that could impact patina. Plan unloading times for early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are milder and surfaces are less prone to expansion or contraction.
Strategic packing choices protect surfaces, joints, and patina.
Patina is more than appearance; it reflects the piece’s history and material integrity. When cleaning prior to move, use gentler polishes that preserve wax layers and avoid harsh solvents that can remove historic sheen. If a surface has developed a delicate patina, consider leaving it untouched and simply dusting with a soft brush. For painted finishes, avoid repainting or heavy-handed touch-ups that could compromise originality. If signs of previous repairs appear, note them for future restoration professionals. By prioritizing non-invasive methods, you maintain the piece’s value and character. Finally, plan for professional assessment if any joints show unusual movement or if inlays appear loose.
Proper tool placement during packing also matters. Place soft cloths between pieces to reduce friction and prevent scratches from neighboring surfaces. Align pieces with their weight balanced to prevent tipping when doors open or stairs are navigated. Use sturdy, purpose-made crates for very valuable or irreplaceable items. Include shock-absorbing layers for fragile elements such as glass, porcelain, or thin veneers. Label crates with direction arrows and content descriptions to speed gentle handling and reduce the risk of accidental damage. Ensure the packing team understands the care needed for early finishes that could react unfavorably to moisture or heat during transit.
Post-mmove care and long-term preservation strategies.
When loading into the vehicle, maintain a steady pace and avoid sudden drops or jerks. Secure pieces with straps that won’t rub against delicate surfaces; place soft barriers between straps and finish to avoid indentations. If possible, keep pieces upright to minimize shearing forces on joints, especially for long drawers or tall cabinets. Check clearance around curbs, stair landings, and ceiling fixtures to prevent unexpected contact. After loading, perform one final check on each item to confirm stability and that protective coverings remain intact. Document any new marks or deviations from the initial condition, so you can address them promptly after arrival. A careful loading sequence reduces stress on joints and helps maintain alignment.
Unloading and reassembly require equal attention. Gently guide each piece to its final location, avoiding dragging across floors. Reassemble components only after testing fit in a dry, controlled environment to ensure joints align properly. Calibrate drawers and doors to close smoothly without rubbing finishes. If any friction or resistance appears, pause to reassess with a professional or the original manufacturer’s guidelines. Keep a small toolkit handy for minor adjustments and have spare fasteners on hand. Consider creating a simple care schedule for the first weeks after move, including moisture checks and light surface polishing that respects patinas.
After the move, give furniture a brief acclimation period in a stable room before placing it in its permanent spot. Reassess humidity and temperature, aiming for steady ranges that won’t stress wood or adhesives. Inspect all joints for movement and re-tighten only as needed with proper tools. Wipe surfaces with a microfiber cloth to remove any dust from transit without abrading finishes. If you notice new cracks or separations, consult a conservator rather than attempting amateur fixes. Over the coming weeks, establish a gentle maintenance routine that respects natural aging—light polishing with appropriate products, no aggressive solvents, and careful placement away from direct sunlight.
Finally, document the entire moving process for future caretakers. Keep records of disassembly notes, packing methods, and environmental conditions encountered during transport. Include photographs of the furniture before and after the move to illustrate changes in condition over time. Store a copy of care instructions from original manufacturers or restorers if available. Share these records with the new homeowners or custodians to help maintain patina, protect joints, and preserve surfaces for generations. With mindful preparation, antique pieces can travel with dignity, retaining their character while inviting renewed appreciation in a new setting.
