On Your Gear!
Transporting Drums Can Be A Nightmare!
Transporting drums safely and securely is a top priority for any drummer, especially when cases are not available. The protection of these valuable instruments is crucial, as any damage could affect their sound quality and lifespan.
How To Transport Drums Without Cases
The best and easiest way to transport drums without cases is by using some type of a heavy blanket/material that will protect your drums.
The thicker the better in this case because if you drop your gear by accident, the thicker material will help prevent dings in your drums.
You can use a rope/strap or anything similar to secure the blanket tightly around the drum and you are ready to go! This method is the fastest because you wrap the drum up the best you can, tie it and you’re ready to go!
It All Varies With Moving Drums
With that being said, let’s dive into the above mentioned method and some other ways we can transport our drums without cases.
There is no right or wrong way and you just have to find what works for you here!
Deep Dive Into Transporting Drums Without Cases
This article aims to provide helpful tips and tricks on how to transport drums without cases, ensuring that they remain in excellent condition during transit.
There are several alternative methods for safeguarding drums in the absence of cases. Some of these methods involve the use of household materials, while others may require the purchase of specific items designed for this purpose.
By exploring these options, drummers can find the optimal solution for their individual needs and budget constraints.
In the following sections, we will discuss various approaches to properly and effectively transport drums without cases. These solutions can be tailored to fit the unique requirements of each drummer, promoting confidence and peace of mind when transporting their precious instruments.
Understanding Drum Transportation
Drum Transportation Basics
Transporting drums can be a pretty annoying task, especially if you do not have cases to protect them. However, it is essential to transport your drum set safely and securely. To achieve this, proper packing and handling techniques are key factors. Here’s a list of things you should keep in mind:
- Disassemble the drum set into individual components.
- Use towels, blankets, or bubble wrap to protect each part.
- Secure the drums in the vehicle with straps or rope.
- Place the heaviest components on the bottom and lighter ones on top.
- Separate each drum and cymbal with a towel or blanket if you can, to prevent scratches as well.
Remember, it’s always a good idea to be cautious while handling the drums, as they are delicate instruments. The above is the absolute easiest and first method for how to transport drums without cases.
Choosing the Right Transportation Method
Selecting how to transport drums without cases and the best way largely depends on the distance and the resources that are available to you. Here are some common transportation methods:
- Car: If you own a car with ample space, this might be the most convenient and cost-effective option. Make sure to secure the drums in the trunk or back seat and place them in a way that avoids any movement during transport.
- Van: Renting a van can provide you more space and safety for your drums. Go for a van with anchor points for you to secure the drums with straps or ropes.
- Moving company: If you need to transport your drums over a long distance, using the services of a professional moving company could be the easiest solution. They will have proper packing materials and experience in handling fragile items.
Consider the pros and cons of each method before deciding which one suits your needs best. Remember, your priority is to ensure the safety and security of your drums while transporting them without cases.
Protecting Your Drums Without Cases
Using Household Materials
When transporting drums without cases, the first step is to gather materials that can provide adequate protection for your drums.
Visit your local Home Depot or other hardware store to purchase some kraft paper and cardboard boxes.
Kraft paper will act as a cushion and help to prevent scratches, while cardboard boxes can act as temporary cases for smaller drum parts.
You can also repurpose items you may already have at home, such as duffle bags and old blankets or towels. Gently wrap your drums in these materials, making sure to cover all surfaces.
Packing Techniques for Drums
Another effective packing technique when determining how to transport drums without cases is the nesting method. This involves placing smaller drums inside larger ones to save space and offer extra protection. Follow these steps for the nesting technique:
- Disassemble your drum set, removing any hardware and accessories.
- Place a layer of kraft paper or a soft cloth on the bottom of the largest piece of the drum set (usually the bass drum).
- Wrap the smaller drums in kraft paper or soft cloth, and then place them inside the largest drum.
- Continue to nest the smaller drums within each other, always adding a protective layer between each drum. (think Russian nesting dolls here)
Remember to pack your drums snugly without forcing them—too much pressure could cause damage. Although, this may be the most time consuming method.
Securing the Hardware and Accessories
To ensure your drums remain protected during transport, it’s essential to secure all hardware and accessories properly. Follow these simple guidelines:
- Place all drum hardware and accessories in a separate box or container, ensuring they are well protected with kraft paper, bubble wrap, or soft cloth.
- Use bungee cords or straps to keep the drums and hardware in place within your vehicle. This will help prevent any movement during transportation that could cause damage.
By using these techniques and readily available household materials, you can safely transport your drums without the need for expensive cases.
Other Proper Packing Techniques
Instead of buying a set of drum cases, you could always have makeshift hard cases by getting plastic totes from Wal-mart.
Just make sure they are a little bigger than your drums. They would be a way more affordable price over.
Using this same method, you could put cymbal stands, bass drum pedals, and any extra gear in these totes.
If you find a large enough golf bag, you could use that as a hardware bag to an extent. The same can be said about a makeshift cymbal bag or cymbal case. With a little ingenuity, you could
Drum bags in the end are really a good investment, however. Whether they are soft bags or hard gator cases, they are the only thing that will really keep your drum gear scratch and dent free for a long time.
They also won’t take up as much space because an individual case is meant for the exact dimensions of your drums vs. all the extra room totes take up.
When you learn to transport drums without cases, you may come to a point where you are ready to protect your investment. You could always start with cheaper soft cases and a hardware case or bag.
It’s completely up to you, but spending all the time to pack your drums and potential dings and dents on your drums are not any fun! You’ll save time in the end.
When I first started playing shows years ago, I transported my drums however I could (including just throwing them in the back of a truck) and it was painful to see all the damage that did.
Moving Drums And The Necessity
Learning how to transport drums without cases doesn’t have to be a difficult thing. You can use moving blankets, boxes, straps, and any other way method necessary. These are the best places to start.
At the end of the day, you’re just trying to prevent scratches, dents, and dings on any of your drum gear. Heavy moving blankets and boxes can be your best friend!
Drum Transportation Moving Forward
So, what are your thoughts on transporting drums? Have you ever had to do it without cases? Let me know in the comments below if you have any questions!