How to Package a Cuckoo Clock

Whether you're moving or just storing your cuckoo clock for a while, packaging your clock right means the difference between a functioning cuckoo clock and just another wall decoration. Below you will find easy, step-by-step instructions to making sure your clock doesn't break while in the box.

Things You'll Need

• Cuckoo clock
• Box
• Packaging paper (thin)
• Packaging peanuts (optional)
• Bubble wrap (small)
• Packaging tape

Instructions

Dismantling Your Clock

1. Remove the weights and pendulum. Set aside.

2. Remove all pieces that come apart from the clock. For example, some clocks have a detachable flare at the very top of the clock. Set aside.

3. Secure the cuckoo bird's door. You can do this with tape. However, on some clocks there is already a small metal clasp that turns down, making the door stay put.

4. Fold all chains and wrap them together with bubble wrap. Make sure that you leave 2 to 3 inches of leeway on the chains so that they are not yanked on in transit.

5. Bubble wrap all of the extremities. Every protruding corner needs to be wrapped by itself first.

6. Once you have all of the corners and edges wrapped, bubble wrap the entire surface area of your cuckoo clock. You can wrap it as many times as you feel comfortable, just remember that you'll eventually have to unwrap it. Make sure to bubble wrap the chains against the cuckoo clock as well, as this will keep the chains from being pulled in transit.

Boxing It Up

1. Measure your fully wrapped cuckoo clock to find the right box size.

2. Remember to have 3 to 4 inches of extra space in your box for added padding.

3. Once you have chosen your box you will want to pad the very bottom first. Put a layer of paper down.

4. If you prefer packaging peanuts, then put a layer of peanuts on top of your paper. Put another layer of packaging paper down.

5. Set your clock in the center of the box.

6. Put a layer of packaging paper around your cuckoo clock.

7. Again, if you want packaging peanuts, then put a layer around the outside edges of the box. Remember to gently shake your box so that the peanuts settle.

8. Pad the top surface of your cuckoo clock with another layer of packaging paper.

9. Place peanuts around the top surface of the box, if you have chosen to use peanuts.

10. Gently shake the box to settle all of the peanuts. Listen for any movement inside the box.

11. If there is a lot of movement inside the box, you will want to add more packaging paper around the sides. Do this until there is little to no movement inside the box.

12. Close your box and seal it with packaging tape.

13. Label your box as fragile.