Antique and specialty clocks, such as Ships Bell Clocks, can get very expensive. They are known for their precise time-keeping capabilities and exquisite craftsmanship, making them highly attractive among collectors.
Because of their age and complicated mechanisms, these antique clocks are fragile and must be handled with utmost care when being transported. When being shipped, an antique clock must be properly packed to ensure that it will arrive safe without any damage. Here are some tips on how to properly pack and ship antique clocks.
Let down the spring so the clock wouldn’t run and there are no moving parts while it is being shipped. Any other moving parts, like the glass cover, must be secured in place with masking tape or painter’s tape to prevent it from opening while in transit. These tape are easy to remove and do not leave adhesive residues on the finish of the clock.
Wrap the entire clock in several layers of bubble wrap, paying extra attention on the glass face and the edges and corners of the encasement which are prone to damage due to impact. Make sure that these parts are well-covered and have sufficient padding.
Place the wrapped clock in a box large enough to accommodate the item and provide at least 2 inches of extra space on all sides, top and bottom. Keep the clock in the center of the box by filling empty spaces on all sides, top and bottom with packaging materials such as packing peanuts, bubble wrap, foam pads or crumpled newspaper. The box should be packed tightly so that there is no chance for the clock to shift or move around. Close the box and seal with packaging tape.
Place the package in a slightly larger shipping box and fill the space between the two boxes with more packaging materials. Close the outer box and secure with packaging tape.
Address and label the package and take to your local post office or shipping company. Insure the package especially if shipping a high-value item.