Antique furniture requires white-glove moving with cotton-glove handling, custom padding, climate-controlled transport, and a pre-move professional appraisal. Standard moving insurance at $0.60 per pound makes a $10,000 antique worth just $30 in a damage claim — always carry fine-arts coverage. Here is how to protect irreplaceable pieces.
Why do antiques need special handling?
Aged wood, veneers, and joinery are brittle and react to temperature and humidity swings. Old finishes can lift, and dovetail joints can loosen. This is why antiques fall under fine art transport, not standard moving.
Why get a pre-move appraisal?
An appraisal documents value and condition before transit, setting your insurance coverage and giving you proof for any claim. It works hand-in-hand with a condition report, the same way a Bill of Lading documents a shipment.
What materials should you use (and avoid)?
| Use | Avoid | | --- | --- | | Acid-free paper, moving blankets | Plastic wrap directly on wood | | Corner protectors, custom crates | Tape on finished surfaces | | Cotton gloves | Bare hands on polished wood |
Estimate the move with the moving cost calculator.
What climate conditions do antiques need?
Stable temperature (65–75°F) and humidity (45–55%) prevent cracking and warping. Avoid leaving antiques in a hot truck overnight — the same rule that governs fine art and a freshly moved piano.
What insurance covers antiques?
Fine-arts replacement-value coverage based on the appraisal, not released-value liability. Learn the difference in our moving insurance guide.
How do I find an antique specialist?
Look for in-house crating, climate-controlled vehicles, and references. Compare verified specialty carriers and request free quotes on moving.art.