GRM relay? Recommendation for someone to move an antique desk from FL to WV?

Parents in law are downsizing, and as a result of that my wife was offered her grandfather's desk. Which we now have to somehow get from FL to WV safely, so it remains as a usable antique desk rather than expensive antique firewood.

I find it somewhat amusing that the desk traveled from Pittsburgh, PA down to Deland, FL a few decades ago and now gets to travel almost all the way back to Pittsburgh .

If any GRMer does this kind of transport work we'd be more than happy to give the work to a fellow forum member, but failing that and before I start phoning some of the big moving companies, does anybody have a recommendation for someone who specialises in moving antique furniture?

The desk is probably not that valuable in monetary terms, but my wife has very fond memories of her grandfather so it's got a lot of sentimental value and we're willing to pay good money for good and safe transport.

And before someone asks - no, I haven't got the dimensions yet. I'm trying to get them, and I'm hoping that doesn't involve me flying to FL for a weekend.

And yes, I realise the GRM answer is to fly to Florida, buy the English Antique Dealer's steed of choice (Volvo station wagon) and hightail it back to WV, but that's most likely out due to time constraints. Although it would be nice to say that our desk drives a Volvo V70R .

Dad did antique furniture restoration in North Florida before he retired.  I'll check and see if he knows if there is anyone that does transport regularly.  Generally the people in his circle would do it themselves when they finished the job, though.

Where in Florida?

In reply to Mr_Asa :

That would be much appreciated. The desk is in Deland, FL, just inland from Daytona Beach.

More info on the desk (when you get the info)?

Pics and a general sense of age would help.

In reply to Mr_Asa :

I'll try to get a picture or two as well with the dimensions. My wife's best guesstimate is that it's from the 1930s.

Ok, so likely not super fragile.  That's good to know.

Ok, so these come from one of Dad's museum co-workers, they generally do all their own transport, but have had experience with Fine Arts Express.  Also, apparently FedEx has what they call a "White Glove" service that is designed for stuff like this.

Apparently prices for this type of service have been climbing hugely in the past few years, though.  Depending on specifics, you might also want to look at flying down and renting a van.

FAE Boston Consulting

White Glove Expedited Shipping Services | FedEx Custom Critical

I recently sold some stuff on Chairish and the driver who picked up the chairs I sold said prices range a lot, but it all depends on routes. He said occasionally he can haul some big stuff for real cheap if he's passing by with a load of really expensive small stuff. 

Expect $150-$350.

Mr_Asa said:

Ok, so these come from one of Dad's museum co-workers, they generally do all their own transport, but have had experience with Fine Arts Express.  Also, apparently FedEx has what they call a "White Glove" service that is designed for stuff like this.

Apparently prices for this type of service have been climbing hugely in the past few years, though.  Depending on specifics, you might also want to look at flying down and renting a van.

FAE Boston Consulting

White Glove Expedited Shipping Services | FedEx Custom Critical

Thanks, much appreciated. 

I really can't offer much, but I plan to do the challenge in October and could re-route through WV on the way home.  (I'm in PA)  If you happen to set up a relay where someone down there could hang on to it, I'd be willing to bring it to you.  I have a full-size van so it would be enclosed.