Relocation is when most household marble damage happens. The cause is almost always inadequate padding and lifting the wrong part.
Pack the thin parts first
Fingers, crowns, weapons and jewellery break first. Wrap each projecting detail in soft foam before wrapping the whole piece.
Materials
Soft foam or bubble wrap for the carving.
A rigid box with no room to shift — pack out the gaps.
Breathable outer wrapping for long-term storage, not plastic.
Lifting and handling
Lift from the base, never from an arm, crown or ornament. Above roughly 20 kg, use two people and agree the route before lifting.
In the vehicle
Place the packed murti upright on the floor, braced so it cannot slide, rather than on a seat or in a boot where it can tumble.
Long-term storage
Store upright in a dry, dust-free place away from sunlight and damp walls. Do not stack other items on top, and check periodically for moisture.
On arrival
Unpack slowly, inspect the thin details before discarding packing, and let the murti come to room temperature before returning it to the shrine.
Frequently asked questions
How do I pack a marble murti for moving?
Wrap the thin projecting details in soft foam first, then the whole piece, and pack it in a rigid box with no room to shift.
Can I lay a marble murti flat to transport it?
Keep it upright and braced on the floor of the vehicle. Laying it flat puts stress on projecting parts and the base.
How should I store a marble murti long term?
Upright in a dry, dust-free place away from sunlight and damp, wrapped in breathable material rather than plastic.
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