diff --git a/tests/document/instance.py b/tests/document/instance.py
index d972ae5a..cdc6fe08 100644
--- a/tests/document/instance.py
+++ b/tests/document/instance.py
@@ -1709,6 +1709,7 @@ class InstanceTest(unittest.TestCase):
 
         pickle_doc = PickleTest(number=1, string="One", lists=['1', '2'])
         pickle_doc.embedded = PickleEmbedded()
+        pickled_doc = pickle.dumps(pickle_doc)  # make sure pickling works even before the doc is saved
         pickle_doc.save()
 
         pickled_doc = pickle.dumps(pickle_doc)