Musical Instrument Courier

Pack the instrument for the journey

Use a fitted hard or flight case where possible. Close every latch and check that the instrument cannot slide inside. Soft gig bags offer less protection from pressure and knocks. Fill spare space with suitable padding without pressing on the bridge, keys, valves or other delicate parts. Follow the maker’s packing guidance.

Protect the headstock and neck of stringed instruments; do not let accessories press against the finish. For brass and woodwind, case mouthpieces, reeds and loose fittings separately. Pack cymbals, drum hardware and stands as separate pieces. Disconnect cables from keyboards and amplifiers, let hot equipment cool, and protect exposed controls.

Label each case with the destination contact and number the pieces. Photograph the packed items and give the recipient the item list so both ends can check the handover.

Choose a vehicle around the packed load

A small, properly cased instrument may suit a small van if it can lie securely. Several guitar cases, a full drum kit or a keyboard with its stand need the total packed dimensions checked; a longer van may suit. Bulky, light cases or stage equipment may need the greater volume of a Luton van. Safe orientation matters more than the instrument’s name.

Do not assume an upright or grand piano will fit simply because a vehicle looks large enough. Give us the instrument’s dimensions and weight, whether it is crated, and details of stairs, lifts, turns, door widths and loading space. Piano movements may require specialist equipment and an agreed handling plan. We should settle those points before confirming a suitable vehicle or collection.

Make loading and handover straightforward

Measure the narrowest doorway and describe steps, uneven ground, parking limits or restricted access. Say whether people can present and receive a heavy item; do not assume a driver can lift it alone. Restrain cases against tipping or sliding, with no heavy item on a lid, neck or keyboard. State if an instrument must remain upright.

Ask the recipient to count cases against the item list and note visible case damage. Let an instrument adjust to a different room temperature before opening if its maker recommends that. Give the delivery contact, venue entrance and access hours in advance.

What to tell us when booking

• Instrument types, number of pieces, and packed dimensions and weight of each case or crate.
• Which items are fragile, must stay upright, or need careful support inside their case.
• Collection and delivery postcodes, contact numbers, access hours, stairs, lifts and loading restrictions.
• Whether help or specialist moving equipment is needed at either end, particularly for a piano.
• The handover deadline and the name of the person who will check every piece on arrival.