Antique furniture & grandfather clock removals

We can plan antique furniture removals and transport for delicate family heirlooms, period pieces and longcase clocks. Older furniture may contain fragile veneers, repaired joints, ornamental carving, glass panels or parts that were never designed to withstand the stresses of an ordinary furniture move.

Before moving an unusual or high-value item, we need to know its dimensions, approximate weight, condition, access at both addresses and whether any specialist conservator, clockmaker or furniture restorer should be involved. A careful survey is particularly important where an item is exceptionally fragile or valuable.

Moving a grandfather clock or longcase clock

Grandfather clocks contain a delicate movement, pendulum and often multiple weights. The safe approach depends on the clock's design. Do not simply lay a running clock down in the back of a van. We discuss the clock's condition and plan the following preparation with the owner or a competent clock specialist as appropriate.

1. Photograph the clock before touching the movement. Record the case, dial, the placement of each weight and its markings, the pendulum and the original position of any detachable sections. A clockmaker may be needed for more complex mechanisms.
2. Stop the movement and secure the mechanism. Allow the clock to come to rest. Remove the pendulum only using a method suitable for that specific clock; do not force a suspension spring, leader or crutch.
3. Label and protect individual weights. Where removal is appropriate, mark each weight according to its original position — for example left, centre or right when viewed from the front — and keep any cables or chains from tangling or coming off their winding drums.
4. Protect the case and glass. Wrap the hood, detachable finials, glazed door and decorative details separately where the design permits. Use soft non-abrasive protection against polished wood and secure doors without placing adhesive tape directly onto antique finishes.
5. Transport the case securely. Choose handling and orientation appropriate to the clock's construction, with sufficient personnel, padding and restraint to prevent knocks, twists or sliding.
6. Reassemble accurately at the destination. Position the case on a stable, level surface; refit weights in their documented locations and rehang the pendulum correctly, with the movement checked before restarting.

Important: Correctly returning the weights and pendulum helps preserve the clock's setup, but it does not guarantee accurate timekeeping after a journey. If a clock is out of beat, stops, chimes incorrectly or needs calibration, a qualified horologist should inspect it. We will not attempt an unapproved mechanical repair.

Antique dining tables, sideboards and display cabinets

Some dining tables have removable tops, leaves, pedestal feet or fragile drop-leaf hinges. Other pieces depend on original wooden pegs and traditional joints that should not be treated like modern flat-pack furniture. We assess what can safely be dismantled, label the components and protect vulnerable edges during handling.

With display cabinets and glazed bookcases, loose shelves, keys, glass doors and internal fittings may need to be packed separately. We avoid using delicate handles or decorative cornices as lifting points and check the route for tight turns and low doorways before moving.

Veneer, French polish, marquetry and decorative finishes

Antique surfaces can be more sensitive than contemporary factory-applied finishes. Bubble wrap or stretch film pressed directly against a polished or delicate surface may mark it, particularly if moisture, heat or prolonged contact is involved. We can discuss appropriate soft, clean barriers, furniture blankets, edge protection and rigid protection for projecting details.

Existing damage, loose veneer or historic repairs should be photographed before lifting. When a piece needs conservation advice or a custom crate, we would assess this rather than assume ordinary wrapping is sufficient.

Mirrors, paintings, marble and other fragile pieces

How to request an antique-removal quotation

Send clear photographs of the piece from several angles, approximate measurements, any known damage or restoration, the pickup and delivery locations and photographs of stairs, entrances and difficult access points. Tell us if the item is an insured collection, an auction purchase, a family heirloom or part of a larger house removal. The required protection and insurance terms will be confirmed before any booking.