When we talk about relocations, we tend to focus on how we are going to move our goods, forgetting about the particular characteristics of the goods that we are moving. Moving high-quality musical instruments such as pianos, harps or violins is a delicate process that adds extra complexity to a relocation process. Any inaccurate action can damage these valuable items. If you are planning to move from the Czech Republic with your music instruments, knowing the best measures to take for protecting them during the relocation is one of the best ways to ensure a safe arrival at their destination. As they say, “prevention is the best medicine”.
1) Take enough time to prepare the move
Musical instruments need special handling due to their particular characteristics. When moving them to another location, try to set time aside for arranging their move… well in advance! Leaving things for the last minute might increase the risk of taking non-satisfactory choices.
At this point, it can be a good idea to list all the moving details. Consider things such as:
- Where is the musical instrument currently placed (is the area easy to access with a lorry, building without lift…)?
- Where will your musical instrument be placed (accessible area, last floor of a house…)?
- What is the approximate weight of the musical instrument (this is relevant to know the number of people required to move it)?
- Is your instrument sensitive to temperature?
- Will you require your instrument in the destination by a particular deadline?
- Do you have a receipt of its purchase to prove its value in case of any problem/damage?
2) Should you take care of the move on your own or should you consider a professional moving company?
This might depend on your resources and the type of instrument. For delicate and larger-sized musical instruments, it is worthwhile to contact a specialised provider. They have experience in moving and handling musical instruments, so they can advise you on the best way to move your instrument.
What to look for in a moving specialist for your instrument:
- Experience in moving musical instruments
- Professional handlers
- Ease in contacting them before, during and after your move in order to ask them any questions you might have
3) Preparing the move: the packaging
If you are packaging your instrument by yourself or using a moving company to do it, it is worth knowing some basic aspects to consider when packing your instrument to ensure maximum protection:
- Check if you can take some parts apart of your musical instrument. For example, in the case of brass instruments, you can remove the mouthpiece; for drums, you can separate some pieces; for string instruments, you can remove the strings…
- Musical instruments need extra cushioning and protection: using bubble wrap or other special packing materials to add extra coverage will ensure that they do not move in their packaging and that they are protected during the transport.
- Choose packages or boxes that fit the size of the instrument so it doesn’t move.
- Indicate on their package that they are fragile.
4) After your move
Wait a few hours before using the instrument to check it has adjusted to the environment, especially if it is sensitive to temperature.