How to Pack Musical Instruments for Moving

Moving musical instruments is not always simple but luckily, we’ve prepared some simple guidelines. Read on to learn how to pack musical instruments for moving.

General Tips For Packing Musical Instruments

Mind the temperature

The first thing you should pay attention to is temperature. Always keep your musical instruments at room temperature because too hot or too cold and you’ll have a damaged piece. Regardless of the type, your instrument is sensitive to temperature changes so you must assure optimum conditions. In case you can’t figure out a way to do this, go ahead and reach out to a few trusted movers. They should be able to provide temperature-controlled moving vehicles so you have nothing to worry about. They can also provide temperature-controlled storage units so your musical instruments will stay safe if you have to store them away for a while.

Don’t rush to use it

Assuming you’re a passionate musician, you may want to play your instrument as soon as you arrive at your new home. But it is important that you don’t rush using it. Instead, give it 24 hours after the move before playing. This is especially important for your woodwind and string musical instruments.

Get help

You can skip this step if you’re moving a smaller instrument. However, if you’re playing a piano, organ, harp, or any other large instrument, you’ll need a few helping hands. You should never try moving a heavy or bulky instrument yourself for your own and your instrument’s safety. You have several options when it comes to getting someone to help you out. One or a few strong friends may be enough or you can hire moving experts. Alternatively, you could hire moving labor and only pay an hourly rate.

How To Pack Musical Instruments For Moving

Now that you’ve learned about the general guidelines, let’s look at simple tips on how to pack different musical instruments depending on the type.

Pianos and organs

In most cases, moving a piano DIY is not the best option. The instrument is simply too heavy, bulky, and valuable not to be moved by an expert. However, preparing your piano or organ for relocation is simple and it can save you some money. Start with reading some pro tips for moving a piano. You will first want to close and lock the keyboard cover and then disassemble whatever you can. That can be a music stand, for example. Use bubble wrap, plastic stretch wrap, and moving blankets to completely cover all surfaces. Follow by using packing tape to secure all protective materials in place. Legs and pedals should get some special attention so use some extra wrapping in those areas.

Brass and woodwind instruments

Start by completely disassembling your brass or woodwind instrument. Use a hard case in case you have it but if you don’t, follow a few easy steps. First, use some bubble wrap to wrap each part of your instrument and secure the material with packing tape. Pay attention that each part is wrapped and prepared individually so it wouldn’t collide with another piece. You’ll want to add plenty of packing peanuts inside the box before placing instrument parts inside but make sure to do one more thing before that. By using stretch wrap around your brass or woodwind instrument, you’ll prevent packing peanuts from getting inside it.

Drums

You will need to get suitable packing supplies first. Start by getting a box that’s appropriate for your drum. The best strategy is to visit your nearest music store and get their professional advice on the size. Once you have the box, you’ll also need bubble wrap and plenty of packing peanuts, and some packing tape. Now that you’re all set, remove the rims and heads and place one inside the other. Use several plastic bags to pack the smaller parts separately, including tension rods and other pieces. You will then use bubble wrap to completely cover spurs and legs and secure them in place with packing tape. Place plenty of packing peanuts inside the box and then submerge all the packed parts in them. In case there’s more empty space in the box, add extra peanuts or crumpled paper so the drum parts wouldn’t move in transit.

String instruments

Instruments like guitars, cellos, violins, harps, and other string instruments, can be extremely valuable so a careful approach is necessary. Since they’re more fragile than other types of instruments, you should consider getting professional assistance for moving them. All of the strings should be loosened before packing and adjustment keys placed parallel to the headstock. Bow hairs should be loosened at this point too. It’s always the best solution to use a hard case since it’s designed specifically for the purpose of carrying an instrument safely. So, in case you don’t have one, consider investing in a hard case because it will certainly be beneficial.

However, if that’s not possible and you have to move an instrument without it, make sure you pack it carefully. Start by wrapping your instrument with plastic stretch tape. When it’s completely covered, use bubble wrap to wrap the entire piece again and create another layer of protection. You’ll also need to get a box that’s big enough to fit the instrument but also to have several extra inches for holding packing peanuts. Once you place the packed instrument inside the box filled with packing peanuts, check if there’s any empty space left inside. Add more foam peanuts or crumpled packing paper to ensure the box is completely filled. You could also lightly shake the box to see if there’s any movement inside and add more cushioning if needed.

Hire specialized movers

Eventually, you could always reach out to your local NYC art movers and have the safest and most convenient relocation. If you think that moving your cherished musical instruments DIY is not worth the risk, then simply hire specialized fine art movers NYC. Rabbit Movers, a reliable NYC interstate moving company, are at your service for local and long-distance moves. Contact us today to receive your complimentary moving estimate!