Sacramento Movers Explain How To Move Grandfather Clocks

Grandfather clocks are one of those unusual items that need a little bit of additional care when moving. Besides the fragile glass door to watch out for, the weights and pendulum must be removed from the clock before it can be transported. This is a simple process but for anyone who has never removed the weights or pendulum from a clock, it may be difficult to know where to begin. Follow these simple steps to secure your grandfather clock for a move.

 Begin with preparing the clock to move. You will need to put on cloth or latex gloves before touching the working parts of the clock. This is important because the moisture or oil from your skin can tarnish the finish of the brass or metal. With gloves on, remove the weights and pendulum. These parts are very delicate so try not to force any part. Also look the entire piece over carefully; perhaps even take photographs so that you remember where each part must go when replaced.

Notice that the weights are only attached to the chain by a hook and the weights can easily be lifted off the hooks. The next thing to do will be to take masking tape and secure the hooks and chains to the side glass so that the hooks do not swing against the glass when the clock is moved.

The pendulum will lift off just as easily as the weights. The important thing to check here is the access panels on either side by the face. Check these to be sure they will not slide or fall down through the glass of the clock. Be sure that the weights and the pendulum are not lost in the shuffle of the move. Set these aside in a box and label the box.

Secure the door of the clock closed either by locking it and holding onto the key or by placing a large rubber band around the clock so that the door does not swing open. Next, carefully pad the clock with furniture pads and stretch wrap it to keep the furniture pads in place. Do not place the clock on a dolly, get a second hand to help you carry it to the truck in an upright position. Strap the padded piece against the wall of the truck so that it does not shift around within the truck during the move.

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® Sacramento employs a staff of over 40 Full-Time Movers and Drivers, with a fleet of 10 trucks. We have performed home and business moving services in and around the Greater Sacramento area for almost 10 years. Our award winning services include full service moving and packing services and we also sells boxes and packing supplies.

With comments or questions contact Carolyn Durkee, Marketing Coordinator at the Sacramento office of TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® at 916-852-7411 or contact us here.