How to Secure Chains for Shipping
How to Safely Ship a Cuckoo Clock
I’ve received several questions about the best way to ship a cuckoo clock. Proper packing is absolutely essential. In addition to using generous cushioning — at least four inches of bubble wrap on all sides — you must secure every loose or “dangling” component before the clock goes into a box.
As mentioned in a previous post , you should wind the clock fully and remove the weights before taking it off the wall. This leaves only the winding side chains loose. These chains can be gently wrapped around the base of the clock case.
To keep the chains securely in place, thread a rubber band through the chain rings and hook it onto a stable portion of the case. This prevents the chains from swinging freely during transit.
Remove and Wrap Separately
It is very important to remove the weights and pendulum from their hooks and wrap them separately — preferably in a separate box if possible. If the weights are not tightly packed away from the clock, they can act like missiles when the box is handled in transit.
If a loose weight strikes the case, it can easily tear away large sections of the clock’s delicate carved façade. This is one of the most common and preventable types of shipping damage.
Make absolutely certain the weights cannot move.
Remove Decorative Elements
Also remove any easily detachable decorative parts such as:
- Top crest pieces
- Antlers or deer heads
- Applied carvings
- Loose trim elements
Wrap these individually with ample padding.
If you are sending the clock out for repair, ask the repair professional which components they actually need. In many cases, they do not require the weights, pendulum, or decorative carvings — sending only the case and movement can reduce risk and shipping cost.
Careful preparation will protect your clock and help ensure it arrives safely at its destination.