How To Move A Piano? Tips & Tricks

Undertaking the task of moving a piano is a significant endeavor, requiring much more than just physical strength.

Pianos are not only heavy – with weights varying from a few hundred to over a thousand pounds – but also have awkward shapes and delicate internal mechanisms. This combination makes them particularly challenging to move without causing damage to the piano or injury to the movers.

If you are not experienced in moving pianos, even with these preparations, the task can still be fraught with risks. In such cases, it is highly advisable to consider professional piano moving services. These services are equipped with the expertise, equipment, and manpower specifically tailored for safely moving pianos. They can navigate the complexities of the task, from disassembling parts of the piano, such as the legs or pedals, for grand pianos, to ensuring that the piano is secured and balanced during transit​​​​.

Preparing for the Move

Before you start moving your piano, you need to prepare for the move. This involves measuring the piano, doorways, hallways, and staircase, and mapping out the route. You also need to protect the piano with blankets or padding to prevent any damage during the move.

Equipment Needed for Moving a Piano

To move a piano, you will need heavy-duty moving straps, a dolly, a moving blanket or padding, packing tape or bungee cords, and a piano board. These tools will help you move the piano safely and efficiently.

Safety Considerations

Moving a piano can be dangerous if not done properly. Pianos are heavy, and moving them improperly can cause injury. Take extra caution if you have an existing injury or any kind of physical issue. Do not attempt to move a piano without adequate equipment.

How to Move a Piano Yourself

If you’re determined to move the piano yourself, then here are some helpful tips to make sure it’s done safely. First, ask for help. Pianos are not only heavy, but they’re also awkward. Uprights carry all their weight in the top half, and their legs and feet can be fragile, so you’re going to need a few extra hands to help. Plan on at least four people to properly and safely move the average upright piano.

Next, get the right equipment. Rent or purchase heavy-duty straps that will provide a better hold on the piano itself. You’ll also need a furniture dolly that can support the weight of the piano. Straps can also be used to secure the piano to the dolly and in the moving truck. If you’re in doubt, talk to a moving truck rental agency or a moving supply center. They’ll direct you to the right tools and make suggestions depending on the type of piano you’ll be moving. You’ll also need to rent or purchase padding or moving blankets to protect the piano from bumps. This will help protect walls from cracks and scrapes, too.

Protect the keyboard by closing and locking the keyboard lid. This will prevent it from opening during the move. The keys are fragile and need to be protected. If the keyboard lid does not lock, make sure that the lid is closed when you wrap the piano. Don’t use tape to keep the lid closed as this will damage the wood surface.

Wrap the piano with the blankets or padding. Make sure the corners are protected and secure the blanket with packing tape. Keep the tape from contact with the piano’s surface.

Hiring a Professional Piano Moving Company

For most homeowners, the task of moving a piano is an uncommon and daunting challenge. The sheer weight and complexity of pianos make them notoriously difficult to move. While it’s clear that pianos are heavy and delicate instruments, the exact weight can vary significantly depending on the type, with upright pianos weighing anywhere from 400 to 800 pounds and grand pianos ranging from 500 to 1600 pounds​​.

Given these challenges, the wisest course of action is often to enlist the services of professional piano movers. These experts have the necessary equipment, expertise, and experience to safely transport pianos, minimizing the risk of damage to the instrument and injury to the movers. However, there are situations where hiring professional movers might not be an option, whether due to budget constraints or personal preference.

In such cases, this comprehensive guide offers a step-by-step approach to moving a piano. It’s a task that demands careful planning, appropriate equipment, and a team of willing and able helpers. The guide covers essential aspects such as securing and protecting the piano with blankets and padding, using the right lifting techniques, navigating through tight spaces, and safely loading and unloading the piano onto a moving vehicle. 

How to Move a Piano Yourself

Lifting the piano is the most dangerous part of moving it. You should never lift a piano by its legs or casters. Instead, use the heavy-duty straps to lift the piano. Make sure that the piano is balanced and that the weight is evenly distributed. Lift the piano slowly and carefully, and make sure that you have a clear path to the moving truck.

How to Move a Grand Piano

Moving a grand piano is a bit more complicated than moving an upright piano. It’s best to hire professional movers for this task. They have the experience and equipment needed to move a grand piano safely. However, if you’re determined to move the grand piano yourself, then here are some tips to help you out.

First, prepare the piano for the move. Remove the music rack, the lyre, and the legs. Wrap the piano in blankets or padding to protect it during the move. Next, move the piano onto the piano board. This will help you move the piano more easily. Finally, move the piano onto the dolly and secure it with straps.

How to Move an Upright Piano

Moving an upright piano is easier than moving a grand piano, but it still requires some preparation. It’s best to hire professional movers for this task. They have the experience and equipment needed to move an upright piano safely. However, if you’re determined to move the upright piano yourself, then here are some tips to help you out.

First, prepare the piano for the move. Remove any loose parts, such as the music rack and the legs. Wrap the piano in blankets or padding to protect it during the move. Next, move the piano onto the dolly and secure it with straps.

How to Transport a Piano

Once you’ve prepared the piano for the move, it’s time to transport it to its new location. Loading the piano onto the truck is the first step. Make sure that the piano is balanced and that the weight is evenly distributed. Secure the piano to the truck with straps or bungee cords.

During the move, make sure that the piano is protected from bumps and jolts. Keep the piano upright at all times. When you arrive at your destination, unload the piano from the truck and move it to its new location.

Piano Moving Tips

Here are some additional tips to help you move your piano safely:

• Never attempt to move a piano alone.
• Wear flat, sturdy shoes and non-slip gloves.
• Under no circumstances lift by the piano legs.
• Always secure or remove the lids.
• Do not roll the piano on the casters as they are more decorative than functional.
• Always keep the piano upright.

Conclusion

Moving a piano is not an easy task, but with the right preparation and equipment, it can be done safely and efficiently. Whether you’re moving a grand piano or an upright piano, it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect both the piano and yourself. Remember to always ask for help, get the right equipment, and take your time. Good luck with your move!

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