International relocation is never a small task, but the challenge grows significantly when it involves moving large or unusual items. Cars, pianos, motorbikes, boats, and oversized furniture often hold both practical and sentimental value. They’re not things you can simply pack in a box, and for many families, leaving them behind is not an option.
At CM Relocation, we understand the complexities of transporting these special possessions safely and securely across borders. In this blog, we’ll explore the key considerations, challenges, and solutions for moving large or special items abroad.
Why Move Special Items Instead of Replacing Them?
When planning an international move, some may wonder if it’s worth shipping large or special items at all. Here are some reasons people choose to bring them along:
- Sentimental value: A family piano or heirloom furniture may hold memories that can’t be replaced.
- Cost considerations: Buying a new car, boat, or high-quality instrument abroad may be more expensive than shipping.
- Special adaptations: Some vehicles or equipment may already be customised for your needs.
- Continuity and comfort: Familiar belongings help ease the transition into a new country.
The Challenges of Moving Large or Special Items
Unlike standard boxes of clothing and household goods, oversized and delicate items come with unique challenges:
- Size and weight restrictions: Not all shipping containers or carriers can accommodate unusually large items.
- Fragility: Items like pianos require careful handling to avoid damage to delicate strings and woodwork.
- Customs regulations: Importing vehicles and certain equipment often involves additional paperwork and duties.
- Specialised packing: Heavy or fragile items need custom crates, padding, and secure strapping.
- Logistics at destination: Maneuvering a grand piano into a high-rise apartment or delivering a car through port clearance requires expert coordination.
Moving Vehicles Abroad
Cars are one of the most common large items shipped internationally. Whether for practical daily use or as a collector’s piece, cars need expert care during transport.
Key Considerations:
- Documentation: Vehicle registration, proof of ownership, and import permits are required.
- Compliance: Some countries have strict emissions or safety standards that vehicles must meet.
- Shipping methods:
- Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo): Vehicles are driven onto the ship and secured in place.
- Container shipping: Cars are shipped inside a secure container, sometimes alongside personal belongings.
- Insurance: Essential for covering risks during transit.
With proper planning and professional support, relocating a car can be straightforward and cost-effective.
Transporting Pianos and Musical Instruments
A piano isn’t just heavy; it’s also one of the most delicate items to move. With thousands of moving parts, even minor mishandling can affect its sound and performance.
Steps Involved in Moving a Piano Abroad:
- Assessment: Determining the type (upright, baby grand, grand) and the logistics of removal from the property.
- Specialised packing: Pianos require custom crating, heavy-duty padding, and moisture protection.
- Handling: Teams use dollies, lifts, and ramps to move the piano safely without injury or damage.
- Climate considerations: Extreme changes in temperature or humidity during shipping can affect the wood and strings.
Other instruments like violins, guitars, or drum kits also need careful packaging and climate-sensitive shipping to maintain their integrity.
Boats, Motorbikes, and Other Recreational Equipment
For families with an active lifestyle, recreational vehicles and equipment often come along during relocation.
- Motorbikes: These can be crated for safe shipping or transported via RoRo services. Batteries may need to be disconnected for safety.
- Boats: Small boats can be crated or containerised, while larger vessels may require specialised shipping arrangements.
- Sports equipment: Oversized gear like surfboards, kayaks, or gym equipment must be carefully packed and declared for customs clearance.
Oversized Furniture and Art Pieces
Not all items are valuable in monetary terms, but many oversized furniture pieces carry sentimental worth or fit specific design needs. Additionally, artworks and antiques require extra attention due to their fragility and value.
- Furniture: Disassembly may be required for easier transport. Items are often wrapped in protective padding and shrink-wrap.
- Artwork: Paintings, sculptures, and antiques need custom crates, shock-absorbing materials, and temperature control.
- Insurance: Coverage for high-value items is critical, as standard moving insurance may not apply.
The Role of Professional Movers
Attempting to manage the relocation of large or delicate items independently can be risky. Professional international movers like CM Relocation provide:
- Custom crating solutions for oversized or fragile items.
- Experienced teams trained to handle heavy lifting and delicate equipment.
- Specialised transport equipment such as forklifts, cranes, and dollies.
- End-to-end logistics support including customs clearance, port handling, and delivery.
- Peace of mind knowing your most valuable possessions are in expert hands.
Tips for Preparing Special Items for Relocation
Before handing items over to movers, here are some steps you can take:
- Document everything: Take photos of vehicles, instruments, or art pieces before shipping for insurance purposes.
- Service vehicles: Ensure cars or motorbikes are in good condition with minimal fuel in the tank.
- Secure loose parts: For furniture or equipment, pack removable components separately.
- Label items: Clearly mark fragile or valuable pieces for extra care.
- Discuss requirements: Communicate special handling needs with your mover well in advance.
Common Questions About Moving Large Items
Is it worth moving a car abroad?
Yes, especially if the car has sentimental value, unique features, or if buying a similar one abroad is costly.
How long does shipping a piano take?
Depending on destination and shipping method, it can range from 4–12 weeks.
Do I need extra insurance?
Yes. For high-value or fragile items, comprehensive insurance ensures protection throughout the journey.
Moving abroad is already a major life event, and relocating large or special items adds another layer of complexity. Cars, pianos, artwork, and oversized furniture are more than just belongings — they’re part of your life and identity. With the right preparation, expert movers, and specialised solutions, transporting them safely is entirely possible.
At CM Relocation, we specialise in handling these unique challenges, ensuring that every item, no matter how big or delicate, reaches its new home securely. When it comes to moving what matters most, choosing professionals makes all the difference.