A Guide to Moving a Chandelier

A Guide to Moving a Chandelier

The art of moving a chandelier is a highly specialised process involving experienced teams of removal crews and electrical specialists.  At Clockwork Removals and Storage we have the expertise, equipment, and experience to handle such fragile and valuable fixtures. To ensure their safe transit planning is key and to help you through the jargon we’ve tried to explain in this guide what happens at every stage of the process.

1. Pre-Move Assessment and Planning

Before moving day, we will conduct a thorough assessment of the chandelier. This includes evaluating its size, weight, value, and complexity, as well as inspecting how it’s attached to the ceiling and whether it requires disassembly. Our surveyor will also assess any narrow doorways, staircases, or tight spaces that could make moving the chandelier more challenging. 

During the site visit we would take measurements, note the chandelier’s materials (crystal, glass, brass etc) and plan the safest route for transportation.  We may recommend custom crating solutions to protect the fixture during transport or disassembly. Crating could involve building a wooden crate around the chandelier or having a bespoke crate made for the chandelier where it is fixed to a cross baton during transportation, so that it can hang safely (a cross baton is a horizontal bar at the top of crate).

2. Shutting Off Power and Securing the Area

Safety is paramount and at Clockwork Removals and Storage we would shut off power to the chandelier from the circuit breaker to eliminate any risk of electrical accidents. The area around the chandelier is then prepped, typically by laying down protective coverings such as padded blankets or floor coverings, all of which our team will have on hand on move day.

3. Disassembly of the Chandelier

Depending on the size and complexity of the chandelier, our expert team will partially or fully disassemble it. This step helps reduce the weight and bulk of the chandelier, making it easier and safer to move.  Any dangling or loose parts, such as chains or pendants, are often secured with twist ties or zip ties to prevent movement during transport.  To ensure proper reassembly later, our teams document the process by taking detailed photos of each stage and labelling all components carefully.

4. Support and Safe Removal from the Ceiling

Because chandeliers are heavy and can be awkward to handle, we use specialised equipment, such as scaffolding and ladders, to safely reach and support the chandelier while removing it from its mount.  Larger or heavier chandeliers might require a temporary hoist system to support the weight while the team disconnects the fixture from the ceiling.  Our team then carefully disconnects the electrical wiring from the ceiling. They ensure all wires (hot, neutral, and ground) are handled correctly to avoid any future issues during reinstallation.

5. Packing and Securing the Chandelier

The chandelier is securely placed in a custom-built wooden crate and attached to a cross baton for stability. The crate is then filled with polystyrene chips to safeguard the chandelier during transportation. Larger chandeliers may need to be disassembled, especially if they cannot pass through doorways safely in one piece. In such cases, the arms are wrapped in acid free tissue and removed first and then the chains, beads, and droplets are wrapped separately in more tissue paper, and their positions are marked on the exterior of the packaging.   All components are then packed into the custom moving crate, often cushioned with polystyrene chippings for extra protection and loaded onto the lorry accordingly.

Once the chandelier is safely in it’s travelling crate, we will then hang the original light fitting back in its place, if this is not available then we can supply a ceiling rose to ensure that despite the removal of this fixture, it meets the conditions of sale.  

Preparation at the New Location and Reassembly

Our team of professionals will assess the ceiling structure to ensure it can safely support the weight of the chandelier. They may install a reinforced mounting bracket if necessary.  The chandelier is carefully rewired, using the labels and photos from the disassembly process to ensure everything is connected properly. The team then remounts the fixture and secures it.

Once the chandelier is reassembled and installed, we will test it to ensure it is functioning correctly and check for any signs of damage. They will also clean the fixture, removing any fingerprints or smudges, and ensure the area is cleared of any packing materials or debris.

Chandelier Storage with Clockwork Removals and Storage

Clockwork Removals has purpose-built storage facilities, that have state of the art linked alarm systems that are monitored by CCTV.  Chandeliers remain in their cases from the time of packing, ensuring minimal disruption and minimising any extra handling, the case will be marked with your name, reference number and destination for when the item is ready to be moved to its next home.  

Why Hire Professionals

Moving a chandelier requires specialised skills, knowledge, and equipment.  Using a professional, fully insured company like Clockwork Removals and Storage ensures that the job is done safely, efficiently and minimises the risk of damage to the chandelier or your property.