How to Move a Grandfather Clock
How To Move An Ancestor Clock
- Understanding Protective Materials
- Delicately Moving the Clock
- Gently Remove the Glass First
- Label Everything
- Padding is Essential
- Check Your Grandfather Clock
1. Understanding Protective Materials
Proper materials are needed to safely transport a grandfather clock. Before moving the clock it is a good idea to measure the clock's weights. Knowing the weight of the clock will allow you to move it safely. Packing paper and bubble wrap are good materials to use when moving a grandfather clock. Grandfather clocks are among one of the heaviest articles of furniture. These clocks are often more valuable and fragile than other grandfather clocks.
2. Delicately Moving the Clock
Moving a grandfather clock is something that must be handled with extreme care. The grandfather clock has a lot of fragile and delicate components. As a result, moving a clock like this one of the more difficult things to move. Before touching the grandfather clock, remember that bare hands might cause damage. The oils that are naturally present on the skin will tarnish the brass and glass pieces of the clock. Always wear gloves made of cotton when touching the internals of the clock.
3. Gently Remove Glass First
Remove glass shelves and pack them first. Pack each glass component by itself. Even if they seem sturdy, they could chip or crack during transport. Wrap glass items in thick packing materials. Mark the wrapped items as ‘fragile’. Cover fragile items with protective wrapping before placing them in the box. Wrap cardboard and bubble wrap between the hammers and bells. Install the foam blocks or cardboard above the pulleys between the clock cable.
4. Label Everything
This puts tension on the cables, keeping them out of the way. Remove the pendulum and weight with care. Take extra caution here. Be careful not to damage the spring or movement kit. Avoid leaving the weights inside of the clock, as they can move around and break the glass. Label each weight as left, center, or right. Do this immediately to avoid confusion later on especially if you are going to place it into storage or warehouse.
5. Padding is Essential
Make sure there is enough padding between the chains and cables. If the cable weight is heavy, removing it may be a good option. This will prevent internal damage when you move the clock. If they are not removed, they could become tangled during transport.
Cable and chain-driven mechanisms are especially important to keep safe. Secure loose panels with tape to prevent them from swinging open during transport. Pack the pendulum along with the rest of the parts in the original box. Some clocks have removable hoods that you can remove to prevent damage. With your moving clock, do not remove protective coverings throughout its movement.
A custom-built padded crate is the best option when moving a grandfather clock. Moving blankets are less expensive and do not provide equal protection.Shipping specialists with a USDOT number can place valuable items in crates on-site. They also help with ensuring valuable items during transport. You can increase the protection of moving grandfather clocks.
6. Check Your Grandfather Clock
To check if your grandfather clock is working well after your move, you may set it up and hear how it chimes. If it sounds as good as before, you know either you or your movers did a great job transporting it. Remember that a grandfather clock may not operate properly unless you place it on a flat surface. Before winding the clock, ensure that you've removed all protective padding. Also, be sure that every component is properly attached. This will secure the chains, pulleys, or tensioners that ensure proper operation. Make sure you hire a licensed mover with correct insurance and truck license when moving high-value items such as grandfather clocks.
Do not pack the weights together and do not place them inside of the clock’s case to avoid damage.
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Comments
Chris Basson
Feb. 23, 2022, 12:38 a.m.
Thank you for this information. I have moved my fathers clock once before and had to bring in white gloves at the last minute to help me which cost a fortune. Now I am more prepared.
Ashley Richmond
Feb. 23, 2022, 12:38 a.m.
Chris did you mean white glove movers or did you need the white gloves for the actual furniture. There is a technical aspects when moving a grandfather clock depending on how old it is and sometime hiring professional movers saves you money when you get it done right the first time.
Lola Harris
Feb. 23, 2022, 12:38 a.m.
Do I require extra insurance for items like a Grandfather clock?
Margie Theron
Feb. 23, 2022, 12:38 a.m.
Good Day, I need to store our Grandfather clock for 3 months in a storage unit. Is there any tips to ensure no damage will be done to the clock while in storage?
Leaker Haven
Feb. 23, 2022, 12:38 a.m.
Ha. I never thought I would have to seek advice on how to move a grandfather clock..until I actually obtained a grandfather clock (and now currently moving). Thanks so much, you guys nailed it.
Claire
Feb. 23, 2022, 12:38 a.m.
Wish I had seen this before moving my grandfather’s clock to have it ruined. If I had taken your precautions, by now, the clock would’ve been here with me working just fine. I bundled the entire clock without having the glasses removed or any part and traveled for about 22 miles. Not only did one of the side glasses got broken, the wooden design at the base got punctured and the clock has lost its original shape. I would probably have gotten answers if I had asked friends how to move a grandfather’s clock. It’s completely fixed but I feel real bad I could’ve done something to save its originality. Thanks
Rob S
Feb. 23, 2022, 12:38 a.m.
How to move a grandfather clock was a debate I had with myself for a very long time. The last time I moved it, I cried a lot... After reading these informative tips, I saw where the problem lied with the past movers I hired.. They did not use much padding and protection. I am thankful that I found this site. I have surfed the net looking for answers for a very long time. I am quite satisfied with the steps found here. Thank you
Rhonda Mc
Feb. 23, 2022, 12:38 a.m.
Hi I'm going move to Norrh California fm Greenville NC. I have Grandfather clock, would be safe ? What's needs for protection? Help please. Thanks
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