moving Baldwin upright piano from USA to HK

[Zeppo]

I've heard that the humidity and the move itself can damage a piano. Anyone have experience doing this with a Baldwin upright? Or any other kind of piano?

[Poor Pianist]

Don't even think about it.

1. Depending on the model and age of the upright Baldwin, it may be worth less than the cost of properly moving it.
2. Unless you are moving it in a humidity-controlled and temperature regulated sealed container, it is a bad idea to move this piano.
3. Your Baldwin piano is made for the North American market, where humidity reaches very low levels. Once moved to Hong Kong, it will absorb humidity like a sponge, the soundboard with crack, the keys will be squeeky and it will be difficult to regulate and tune after such shock.

Conclusion: Sell your Baldwin in America and buy a Yamaha in Hong Kong.

[LA Bliss]

our relocation agent advised us against bringing our piano from the US as well so we just left it in storage.

[Zeppo]

Thanks for the input. I should have explained that we will be reimbursed for our moving expenses. Otherwise, it would clearly not be worth moving. But if the move will likely ruin what's left of a piano that's already seen better days, there may be no point in moving it, in any case.

[gentlebob]

it's okay. i brought my Steinway grand and it's fine.

the real problem is bringing a piano in the other direction, pianos built in Asia are made from wetter wood and will generally have problems going to the northern, less humid climes

humidity is always better for pianos than dry- and humidity is easier to control. put a heat bar in the console and you'll be fine.

of course you've probably already moved by now.