The 4 Most Difficult Items to Move: Cars, Pianos, Fine Art & Firearms
By Dr. Steven R. Grossman · Reviewed by Sarah E. Whitaker, Senior Editor
Cars, pianos, fine art, and firearms turn a routine relocation into a logistics problem. Here’s how to move each one safely — and when to call in a specialist.
Moving is stressful enough, but certain items turn a standard relocation into a major logistical challenge. Whether you’re handling a DIY move or hiring professional movers, cars, pianos, fine art, and firearms each require special planning, equipment, and expertise.
These four items top the list of the hardest things to move because they are heavy, fragile, valuable, or regulated. Here’s what you need to know to move them safely and efficiently.
1. Moving a car: when driving isn’t an option
Cars can be among the easiest or most difficult items to move. If your vehicle is reliable, the distance is short, and you have enough drivers, simply driving it works fine. But long-distance moves, non-running vehicles, or multiple cars complicate things quickly.
Best solutions for car relocation
- Use a professional auto-transport company that loads vehicles onto an enclosed or open carrier.
- This protects your car, prevents added mileage on the odometer, and avoids the wear and risk of a long road trip.
- Compare licensed carriers and request quotes before you commit — you can start with the vetted movers in the CMR directory.
Get multiple quotes from licensed auto transporters and verify their insurance coverage in writing before handing over your keys.
2. Moving a piano: heavy, fragile, and easily damaged
Pianos are notoriously tough to move. At an average weight of 750+ pounds, they pose serious physical risk, while their delicate internal mechanisms — strings, hammers, and keys — make them highly susceptible to tuning problems or permanent damage.
Why piano moving is so challenging
- Too heavy for standard DIY lifting
- Prone to scratches, dents, and internal misalignment
- Requires specialized knowledge of disassembly and climate control
Always hire professional piano movers. Specialists use proper dollies, blankets, stair crawlers, and techniques that general movers lack. Many full-service companies in the CMR directory offer dedicated piano handling — ask before you book.
3. Moving fine art, pottery & collectibles
Fine art, pottery, sculptures, and family heirlooms combine extreme fragility with irreplaceable value, which makes them some of the most stressful items to move.
Common risks
- Pottery and china can shatter from minor impacts
- Paintings are vulnerable to temperature swings, light exposure, and canvas damage
- Charcoal, pastel, and ink works smudge easily
- A single accident can destroy something priceless
Best practices for moving art and pottery
- Use high-quality packing materials — acid-free tissue, bubble wrap, and custom crates
- Label items clearly as “Fragile” and “This Side Up”
- Tell your moving company about valuable or delicate pieces in advance
- Consider a fine-art shipping specialist for high-value collections
For museum-quality pieces, climate-controlled transport and full insurance are essential.
4. Moving firearms: safety and legal requirements
Firearms add layers of safety and legal complexity to any move.
Key considerations when relocating guns
- Always unload firearms completely before packing
- Store them in locked, clearly labeled gun cases or safes
- Inform every adult involved in the move that weapons are present
- Research state and federal transport laws, especially when crossing state lines
Some states have strict rules on ammunition transport, waiting periods, or permitting. When in doubt, work with movers who are experienced with firearm relocation.
Final tips for moving difficult items successfully
- Start early. These items need extra research, quotes, and prep time.
- Get proper insurance. Standard moving coverage often excludes or limits high-value and specialty items.
- Hire specialists. For cars, pianos, art, and firearms, professionals usually save time, stress, and money in the long run.
- Document everything. Take detailed photos of each item’s condition before the move.
Planning a move that involves any of these challenging items? Identify which ones apply to you, then request quotes from specialized professional movers early.