Clocks are extremely delicate, and often have immense sentimental—and sometimes financial—value. Whether you’re moving long distance and don’t want to leave your clock behind, or you are simply shipping a clock from one location to another, TSI makes long distance clock shipping easy. With our nationwide network of professional grandfather clock shipping partners, TSI’s expert problem solvers specialize in creating customized plans for moving or shipping clocks cross country or any distance longer than 150 miles, including:
All longcase clocks, including antique, traditional, grandmother, and heirloom clocks
Pendulum wall clocks, vintage wall clocks, mid-century clocks, bracket clocks, and more.
French style, German style, Art Deco, and modern mantle clocks.
If you are shipping any clock long distance, our White Glove Consolidated shipping service is often the best option but for tighter timelines or if you have lots of other items, Full Service Expedited might be better. The exact cost of your shipment will depend on the size and number of clocks you’re shipping (as well as additional items), and the distance they will travel. All of TSI’s clock shipping solutions include professional packing and preparation to ensure your clock arrives undamaged, with extra options available for special considerations such as glass. You will be responsible for removing and packing the internal workings.
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How do I pack my grandfather clock for shipping?
Every grandfather clock is different, but these steps are a good place to start:
Inspect your grandfather clock for signs of existing structural damage or weakness so you can take the appropriate precautions before you move. Take pictures of any existing damage—you’ll need them if you need to make an insurance claim.
Disassemble the clock. Do not, under any circumstances, attempt to move a grandfather clock without dismantling it. Remove glass panels, secure the chains and cables, remove weights one by one, remove the pendulum, reposition the side access panel, and remove the top of the clock, if possible. You may want to call a clock expert to take care of this process.
Cover and protect any areas, especially edges and corners, that could sustain damage in transport.
Pack the internal components into a heavy-duty moving box. Secure them in place with bubble wrap, crumpled packing paper, or ideally, specially fitted styrofoam. For antique or especially valuable grandfather clocks, crating is recommended for maximum protection.
Pack the body of the clock into a crate, held in place with specially fitted styrofoam.
For detailed packing instructions, keep reading: How Do I Ship a Grandfather Clock?
How do I pack a mantel clock for shipping?
Mantle clocks are comparatively easy to pack for shipping. To pack a mantle clock, follow these steps:
Place a sheet of bubble wrap between the clock hands and the dial, and between the clock face and the glass cover. This will help cushion the hands against vibration and prevent the glass from breaking.
Place two strips of blue Scotch tape in an X-shape across the glass clock face, taking care to avoid taping painted or finished surfaces.
Wrap the clock in enough bubble wrap to create a 4-5 inch cushion around the entire piece. Secure the bubble wrap in place with tape. For best results use ½ inch bubbles for items over 10lbs.
Pack the wrapped clock into a strong, new cardboard box that is large enough to leave 2 inches of empty space around the clock. Fill in empty spaces with bubble wrap, crumpled packing paper, or foam enclosures. Do not use packing peanuts—they’ll settle to the bottom of the box
How do I pack a wall clock for moving?
Disassemble the clock as much as possible. Remove any weights one at a time, and lift out the pendulum and package it safely. Do not tape or wrap the pendulum in place. Remove glass doors if possible.
Place a sheet of bubble wrap between the clock hands and the dial, and between the clock face and the glass cover. This will help cushion the hands against vibration and prevent the glass from breaking.
Place two strips of blue Scotch tape in an X-shape across the glass clock face, taking care to avoid taping painted or finished surfaces.
Wrap the clock in enough bubble wrap to create a 4-5 inch cushion around the entire piece. Secure the bubble wrap in place with tape. For best results use ½ inch bubbles for items over 10lbs.
Pack the wrapped clock into a strong, new cardboard box that is large enough to leave 2 inches of empty space around the clock. Fill in empty spaces with bubble wrap, crumpled packing paper, or foam enclosures. Do not use packing peanuts—they’ll settle to the bottom of the box.
How much does it cost to ship a clock?
The cost of shipping a grandfather clock can range between $1,100-$3,000 depending on the size and value of the clock, as well as the distance it will travel, and any other special considerations such as delicate woodwork.
They help us serve you better. See what our customers have to say about our clock shipping services below. You can read more reviews here.
Russell V.
Jim Lund
Marvin B - NY
Request a clock or grandfather clock shipping quote online or call us at 800-626-1257. One of our logistics experts in Wayne, PA will reach out to you to get all the details about your move or fragile items, including details about each piece, final destination requirements, pickup conditions, and more.
Get clock moving & shipping tips in the TSI Resource Center and Outside the Box Blog
