Pianos, fine art, and antiques are not ordinary “oversized packages.” Their value can depend on provenance, finish, tuning, restoration, or condition, and a safe move often starts with a site survey.
Survey the item and both locations
Measure doors, stairs, elevators, corridors, turning spaces, overhead obstacles, and floor capacity. Record the item’s weight, center of gravity, removable pieces, condition, and climate sensitivity.
Use trained handlers
Ask who packs, lifts, carries, loads, and unpacks the item. Specialized dollies, ramps, cradles, shock control, climate-managed equipment, and security procedures may be necessary.
Document condition and value
Keep photos, appraisal or provenance records, packing lists, signed condition reports, and insurance terms. Inspect before and after unpacking, and note any issue before the crew leaves.
Continue your research
Frequently asked questions
Related guides
Crating and Packing High-Value Vehicles, Boats, and Delicate Cargo
Packing Sensitive Machinery for Transport: Vibration, Moisture, and Shock
Vehicle Shipping Documents and Tracking: Keep Every Handoff Visible
Auto Transport Insurance: What's Actually Covered (And What Isn't)
Personal Items Left in Car During Shipping: What Gets Covered, What Voids Your Claim
Car Shipping Documents Checklist: What to Have Ready Before Pickup
Leave a review for your broker
Shipped with one of the 4,900+ brokers we audit? Your review helps other people avoid bad actors — or find the good ones. Reviews are checked automatically before publication. One review per device or network per broker.