As a musician, you may be used to taking your gear on the road, but moving with your gear can still be a bit overwhelming. You invested a lot of money into your instruments and equipment, and the thought of it spending several days in the back of a moving truck, or being entrusted to someone else's care during the trip can cause more than a few butterflies in your stomach. Here are a few ways to reduce your anxiety, as well as make sure that your instrument is playable when you get there.
Last In, First Out
One way that you can reduce the amount of time that you have to be separated from your instrument is to remember the "last in, first out" rule. Whatever goes into the moving truck last will be the first thing that will be taken out upon arrival. For shorter moves, ask the moving company to make sure that your music gear is packed close to the back of the truck so that it will be easily accessible once you arrive at your new home.
Roadworthy Cases
If your instrument is not used to spending much time on the road, it may be time to invest in a high quality gig bag or a hard-bodied road case. One of these cases will protect your instrument in the event that it gets bumped and shifted around during the move. Many music stores carry gig bags and cases for everything from banjos to keyboards, and will be happy to fit your instrument for the perfect protective covering.
Climate Control
For some instruments, no amount of time in the back of a truck is ideal. String instruments like upright basses, violins, and cellos need a certain amount of climate control, even during travel, in order to keep from warping or coming unglued. Transporting these instruments in your personal vehicle would be one way to make sure that they avoid overheating or excessive bumps. If it is not possible to transport this type of instrument in your personal vehicle, make sure that it is packed in either a hard case or a well-insulated gig bag. Then, place the gig bag or case in a sturdy box surrounded by packing peanuts or bubble wrap. This will help to protect the instrument from being jostled around, as well as provide insulation to help your instrument stay cool in a warm truck.
Moving your musical equipment can be a challenge, but with a little bit of extra planning, you will be playing at your new home sooner than you think. If you're looking for a moving company near you, visit Wheaton World Wide Moving.
