Crating

A crate is built to the exact dimensions of the item, with internal padding (foam, blankets, corner blocks) cradling the item so it cannot shift inside the box. The crate is then loaded into the truck or shipping container as a single solid unit. Crating is significantly more protective than blanket-wrapping alone — the rigid exterior absorbs impacts that would otherwise transmit to the item. It's standard practice for shipping art across the country, for moving heirloom antiques, for transporting medical or lab equipment, and for any item where a single damaged corner is unacceptable.

For most household items, professional blanket-wrap and proper truck loading are sufficient. For high-value or irreplaceable items — a six-figure painting, a Steinway grand, a 200-year-old credenza, a calibrated lab instrument — the cost of crating ($150-$500 per item depending on size) is negligible compared to the cost of damage. Some shipping carriers require crating for fragile items, and some Full Value Protection coverage requires it for items above a certain declared value. Designer-grade and commercial-grade moves often use crating by default.

Muscleman Elite builds custom crates on-site for any item that warrants the extra protection. We assess during the walk-through which items should be crated, quote the crating cost upfront in the written estimate, and build crates with appropriate internal padding for the item type. For art and mirrors, we build picture crates with foam channels; for furniture, we build full enclosures with blocking. For lab and medical equipment, we follow manufacturer crating specs where available.

When should I have an item crated?

When damage would be unacceptable or expensive to remediate: fine art, antiques, mirrors larger than 24x36, glass tabletops, framed photos of irreplaceable subjects, calibrated instruments, custom-finish furniture. If you'd be devastated by a corner ding, crate it.

How much does crating cost?

Typically $150-$500 per item depending on size and complexity. A picture crate for a 36x48 painting is on the lower end; a full enclosure for a marble-topped antique credenza is on the higher end.

Can I crate items myself?

You can, but the crate quality matters enormously. A poorly built crate is worse than no crate — it gives a false sense of security while the item shifts inside. Professional crating uses the right wood thickness, internal blocking, and corner reinforcement. For high-value items, leave it to the crew.