Shipping That’s Anything but Standard: How to Move Your Pet, Piano, or E-Bike

Special Items, Special Planning

Moving your belongings internationally is one thing.

But moving a grand piano, beloved pet, or e-bike with a lithium battery? That’s a whole different level.

These items require extra planning, paperwork, and care. At Asian Tigers Group, we’ve helped thousands of families move the irreplaceable — safely and legally.

Here’s your guide to shipping what doesn’t fit in a box.

1. Pets: Your Furry Family Members

Relocating pets is emotional and complex. Every country has its own rules on vaccination, quarantine, and import permits.

Checklist:

• Microchip & rabies vaccination records
  
• Import permits (e.g. Japan, Singapore, Australia)
  
• Quarantine arrangements (if required)
  
• Airline-approved travel crate
  

Expert Help:
All pet relocation is handled by our trusted partner, Silk Relo, a specialist in international pet moves.

🎧 Podcast: Moving Special Items – with AT Japan’s Tomomi Fujita

2. Pianos: Grand Moves for Grand Instruments

Pianos aren’t just heavy — they’re delicate. We coordinate climate-stable crating, stair lifts, and tuned delivery.

Checklist:

• Confirm piano type (upright or grand)
  
• Measure doorways and staircases
  
• Secure a tuned delivery partner at destination
  
• Book climate-controlled transport (if needed)
  

🎧 Podcast: Moving Delicate Items – with AT Indonesia’s Bill Lloyd

3. E-Bikes & Lithium Battery Gear

Lithium batteries are considered hazardous goods and are restricted by many air and sea carriers.

Checklist:

• Declare all battery-powered items (e-bikes, scooters, vapes)
  
• Confirm watt-hour rating (WH)
  
• Remove or ship batteries separately (if allowed)
  
• Label with IATA-compliant hazard stickers
  

Note: Some countries may prohibit importing lithium batteries altogether. Ask us before packing.

4. Fine Art, Antiques & Framed Prints

We protect irreplaceable pieces using custom crating, shock absorption, and climate buffering.

Checklist:

• Provide high-res photos for insurance
  
• Use soft-wrap + acid-free tissue + foam
  
• Build custom crates for high-value or large pieces
  
• Avoid packing oils or acrylics during hot seasons
  

5. Vehicles: Japan, Australia & Thailand Moves

Regulations vary widely and can be tricky. In many cases, vehicles must meet local emissions and compliance rules.

Checklist:

• Title/registration and proof of ownership
  
• Compliance inspection documents (Australia especially)
  
• Confirm if left-hand drive/right-hand drive is allowed
  
• Choose between container or RORO (roll-on roll-off)
  

Tip: Customs duties and taxes may apply — we’ll guide you through it.

6. Odd-Shaped Household Items

• Framed mirrors
  
• CPAP machines
  
• Gym equipment
  
• Guitars or amps
  

These items often need both careful cushioning and detailed customs descriptions.

Final Tips

• Declare special items before survey day
• Ask us if it’s legal to import to your destination
• Use custom crates when in doubt
• Consider extra insurance for high-value goods

Need Help with a Not-So-Standard Item?

We’ve seen it all — and moved it all. Whether it barks, plays music, or weighs 300kg, we’ll guide you through each regulation and requirement.

Contact us to start planning: asiantigersgroup.com/contact-us

Pets? Visit Silk Relo