Moving a piano can be a daunting task. As one of the largest and heaviest pieces of household furniture, special care must be taken when transporting a piano to ensure no damage occurs. Proper preparation and precautions are essential for getting your piano safely from point A to point B. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk through everything you need to know to move your piano without a scratch.

Assess the Situation

Before moving day, thoroughly assess the situation to identify any potential challenges or issues.

Take Measurements

Carefully measure the dimensions of the piano, including height, width, and depth when closed and fully open. Be sure to measure doorways, staircases, and elevators to ensure your piano can fit through. A typical upright piano is approximately 5 feet tall by 5 feet wide by 2 feet deep. Grand pianos can be up to 9 feet long.

Consider Weight

Consult your owner’s manual to determine the exact weight of your piano. Upright pianos generally range from 400 to 900 lbs. Grand pianos are much heavier, weighing anywhere from 600 to 1300 lbs depending on the length and materials. Identify any steps along the moving route that may prove challenging for heavy loads.

Check for Obstacles

Inspect the moving route inside and outside the homes to identify any potential obstacles like low ceilings, tight corners, or narrow doorways. Moving a piano often requires maneuvering it at an angle, so make sure you have enough room to do this.

Assess Access

Determine if there are access issues like stairs without ramps that will make it impossible to move the piano on a wheeled dolly. Situations requiring hoisting equipment should be identified ahead of time.

Choose Paths Wisely

Map out the loading, transit, and unloading paths ahead of time. Opt for the widest doors and hallways with minimal turns. Protect floors by laying down plywood or masonite along the routes.

Prepare the Piano

Taking time to properly prepare your piano for moving will help prevent damage:

Empty Inside

Remove any items stored inside such as sheet music, cleaning supplies, or pictures. Transport these items separately.

Secure Parts

Check for any loose hardware or parts that could vibrate off during transit. Tighten any loose tuning pins, pedals, legs, or cabinet parts.

Disassemble If Needed

For grand pianos, the legs will need to be removed prior to laying it on its side. If required, detach the lid and music stand as well. Tag parts for reassembly.

Protect Delicate Parts

Wrap the pedals and keyboard in padded moving blankets or bubble wrap to guard against nicks and scratches. Secure the blanket tightly in place with tape.

Lock Position

Lock the keyboard in place and secure the lid closed. This helps prevent movement and lessens tension on the strings during transport. Engage both the soft and sustain pedals.

Choose Professional Movers

Safely moving a piano requires specialized equipment and trained professionals. Do not attempt to move a piano on your own:

Find Experienced Movers

Look for companies specializing in piano moves with extensive experience and skill. Ask for references from previous piano-owning clients.

Verify Proper Equipment

Confirm the company has access to appropriate equipment like liftgates, ramps, dollies, and trucks designed for transporting pianos. Avoid companies that intend to simply lay your grand piano in a truck bed.

Licensed & Insured

Only consider movers that are fully licensed, bonded, and insured. Ask for proof of piano-specific coverage and experience. This protects against damages if accidents occur.

Get Guarantee

Select a company that provides a written guarantee stating they will take full responsibility for any piano damages that may occur during moving.

Use Proper Moving Equipment

To safely transport a piano without damage, certain equipment designed specifically for moving pianos should be utilized:

Piano Boards or Skids

Specialty boards that the piano rests on for sliding allow smooth transit over various surfaces and thresholds. Lifting straps are secured around the boards instead of the piano.

Piano Dollies

Heavy duty dollies with pneumatic tires offer great maneuverability once the piano is loaded. Multiple dollies may be used spaced evenly under a grand piano.

Ramps & Liftgates

Low-angle ramps or liftgates make it easier to safely load and unload pianos using gravity assistance. Never attempt to lift the piano’s full weight.

Padded Slings or Belts

For grand pianos, padded slings are positioned underneath the body and used to hoist and stabilize it during lifting or transit so it remains level.

Climate-Controlled Truck

Using an enclosed truck with climate control protects your piano from dirt, debris, temperature extremes, and precipitation during transport.

Take Precautions During Transport

From loading to unloading, extra care should be taken at all times while the piano is in motion:

Lifting Guidelines

Follow the movers’ instructions for lifting. Typically 6+ people are required for lifting – 2 at each end and 2 supporting sides. Do not lift from moldings or legs.

Secure Properly

Stabilize and secure the piano thoroughly within the truck to prevent any shifting or tipping during transit. Use straps, blocks, and braces as needed.

Drive Carefully

Instruct movers to avoid sudden starts, stops, turns, and bumps during transit that could impact the piano. Speed bumps should be crossed slowly at an angle.

Mind Inclement Weather

Avoid moving pianos in extreme heat, cold, or humidity. Never move a piano while raining or if there is a risk of getting wet. Schedule accordingly.

Control Access

Restrict access inside the truck while loaded only to necessary moving personnel. Do not allow children or pets near the piano during any part of transit.

Complete Final Placement

The job doesn’t end once unloading is complete. Follow these final steps for safely getting your piano settled in its new home:

Assess New Location

Before bringing the piano into the new location, ensure there is adequate space with good acoustics. Avoid placing near HVAC vents, windows, or exterior walls.

Unpack Properly

After transporting, carefully remove all protective coverings, locking mechanisms, and disassembled parts according to manufacturer guidelines.

Check for Damage

Thoroughly inspect for any new scratches, nicks, dents, cracks, or other exterior damage before the movers leave. Document any issues immediately.

Call for Tuning

Even if no visible damage occurs, the moving process commonly knocks pianos out of tune due to vibration and jostling. Schedule a tuning as soon as possible.

Adjust Environment

Maintain ideal humidity of 45-70% and temperatures around 68??F where the piano is placed to prevent future warping, cracking, or tuning issues after moving.

Common Questions

Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about moving a piano:

How much does it cost to move a piano?

The average cost to move a piano is $300-$600 for a local move under 50 miles. Long distance moves can range from $800-$2500+ depending on distance and logistics. Get quotes from multiple specialized movers to compare.

Can I move a piano myself?

It is strongly advised to never move a piano yourself without the proper equipment and experience. Upright pianos weigh 400-900 lbs and grands weigh 600-1300 lbs. Dropping or impact damages can easily exceed the cost of professional movers.

What is the best way to move a grand piano?

The safest method is to detach the legs, secure the body to a padded board, and use straps attached to the board for lifting and tilting onto a dolly for transit. A climate-controlled moving truck is ideal.

How do you transport an upright piano?

Carefully tilt the upright onto a specialty dolly strapped snugly around the back. Blankets between the dolly straps and piano prevent scratches. Use ramps to load onto the truck and ensure it remains stationary.

Can you lay a piano down when moving?

Grand pianos must be laid down for transit. Uprights should remain upright if possible but may be gently laid on their back only if necessary. Precautions should be taken to immobilize parts and prevent movement.

Should I hire piano movers or regular movers?

Always hire professional piano movers, not general movers. Piano movers have specialized equipment and expertise in piano moving techniques to prevent damage. Let them handle all aspects of the move.

Conclusion

Moving a piano without harm requires diligent planning, preparation, and caution. While an expensive instrument to move, utilizing reputable piano movers with specialized gear and skills greatly minimizes your risk. Conduct thorough research and take preemptive precautions for the best chance of transporting your piano safely to its new location intact. Handle your piano as the precious commodity it is, and you can relax as the professionals handle this challenging moving task smoothly from start to finish.

Moving a Piano Safely

Moving a piano can be a tricky and stressful endeavor. A piano is a large, heavy, unwieldy instrument that requires specific handling to move safely. Proper preparation and precautions are necessary to ensure a smooth, damage-free move. With some knowledge and planning, you can get your piano to its new home intact. Here is a comprehensive guide to moving a piano safely.

Find Experienced Piano Movers

Do not attempt moving a piano on your own. Hire professional piano movers with specialized equipment and training. Look for licensed, bonded, and insured companies that have expertise moving all piano types. Ask for references from past piano clients specifically. Confirm they have proper gear like ramps, liftgates, and climate-controlled trucks designed for safely transporting pianos.

Measure Doorways, Stairs, and Rooms

Before the move date, carefully measure the piano as well as all doorways, stairs, and rooms through which the piano must pass. Note any potential obstacles or tight squeezes that require special maneuvering. Upright pianos are about 5 feet tall by 5 feet wide. Grand piano lengths vary from 5 to 9+ feet long depending on size. Identify problem areas ahead of time.

Disassemble When Necessary

For grand pianos, the legs need to be removed prior to laying the instrument on its side for moving. If required, detach the lid and any easily removed parts like bench seats. Tag all parts carefully so movers know how to reassemble later. Wrap removed legs and hardware in padding and load into truck last so it’s unloaded first.

Empty Out Interior Space

Clear out anything stored inside the piano such as sheet music, metronomes, cleaning supplies, or household items. Transport all loose items separately so they don’t vibrate around and damage the interior during transit.

Secure Pedals, Keys, and Moving Parts

Check for any loose pedals, tuning pins, legs, or other detachable parts. Tighten any hardware that seems loose to prevent breakage during movement. Lock the keyboard and pedals in place using manufacturer instructions if available.

Pad Vulnerable Areas

Wrap padded moving blankets around vulnerable areas like the keyboard, pedals, and cabinet corners to protect from nicks and scratches. Use stretch wrap to hold padding snugly in place during transit.

Lift Properly with Enough Helpers

Have at least 2 strong people lifting each end, plus 1-2 supporting the sides. Do not lift from moldings or legs. For grand pianos, carefully tilt onto an equipped dolly before lifting. Follow movers’ instructions exactly.

Load Securely in Moving Truck

Immobilize the piano within the truck by strapping it down tightly and bracing it on all sides. Avoid sudden stops, starts, excessive speed, or rough roads during transit. Drive slowly over bumps. Protect from weather elements.

Unload Carefully at New Location

Guide movers as they unload and move the piano into position. Make sure the floor is protected where they slide or roll it into place. Remove packaging and reassemble any parts detached according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Schedule Post-Move Tuning ASAP

After any move, pianos require tuning due to shifts in humidity and jostling during transport. Even if not visibly damaged, the strings commonly go out of tune. Schedule a trusted piano technician for tuning and inspection shortly after unloading.

Moving a piano, especially valuable grands and vintage models, can induce anxiety. With adequate preparations, precautions, and the help of seasoned professionals, you can ensure your piano arrives safely so it is ready to play beautiful music in its new home.

Moving a Piano Safely: A Complete Guide

Introduction

Moving a piano, whether across town or across the country, is a complicated process that requires careful preparation and caution to prevent damage. As very heavy and awkwardly-shaped objects ranging from 400 to 1300 pounds, pianos need to be handled with extreme care throughout the entire moving process.

This comprehensive guide provides piano owners with the essential information needed to move a piano safely. We will walk through the necessary steps for protecting your piano, choosing qualified movers, using proper equipment, taking precautions during transit, and settling into the new location. Follow these tips to ensure your piano arrives at its destination intact and ready to use.

Preparing the Piano for Moving

The first crucial step is thoroughly preparing your piano for the move ahead of time.

Remove All Loose Items

Take out anything stored inside such as sheet music, metronomes, pictures, cleaning supplies, etc. Transport loose items separately.

Secure Detachable Parts

Check pedals, legs, lids, and benches to ensure no loose hardware could vibrate off during transit. Tighten any loose parts.

Pad Vulnerable Areas

Wrap padded blankets around the keyboard, pedals, and other areas prone to scratches or dings. Tape padding securely in place.

Lock Keyboard and Moving Parts

Lower the lid over the keys and lock everything in place so minimal movement occurs during transport.

Tag Disassembled Pieces

If legs or lids must be removed, tag parts clearly for reassembly and wrap in padding for protection.

Inventory Condition

Note any existing scratches or damage to reference later if new damage occurs during moving.

Hiring Professional Piano Movers

Moving pianos requires specialized equipment and trained experts.

Find Experienced Companies

Research companies in your area specializing in piano moves. Look for endorsements from piano owners.

Verify Credentials

Reputable movers should be licensed, bonded, insured, and have a DOT number. Ask for documentation.

Get References

Request contact information for previous piano clients and call them. Ask if they were satisfied.

Confirm Equipment

Make sure the company owns piano boards, lifting straps, ramps, climate-controlled trucks, etc.

Require Liability Insurance

Movers must have coverage for damages. Request a certificate showing minimum of $2 million policy.

Get Damage Guarantee

Select a mover who provides a guarantee to take responsibility for any piano damages during the move.

Using Proper Moving Equipment

Specialized piano moving equipment reduces the risk of damage tremendously.

Piano Boards or Skids

Thick wooden boards piano rests on to smoothly navigate surfaces

Heavy Duty Dollies

Dollies designed specifically for pianos with high clearance and pneumatic wheels

Padded Slings/Belts

Wide, padded straps placed under pianos for lifting uprights and stabilizing grands

Ramps & Liftgates

Allow easy loading/unloading without lifting full weight

Climate-Controlled Truck

Enclosed truck protects from weather and debris during transit

Taking Precautions During Transit

From start to finish, extra precautions are needed when the piano is in motion.

Careful Lifting

Follow movers’ instructions exactly. Do not lift piano alone.

Cautious Maneuvering

Move slowly. Avoid tilting piano more than 45 degrees. Watch for door frames and corners.

Proper Stabilization

Secure piano fully in truck to prevent shifting. Use braces, straps, blocks.

Defensive Driving

No quick acceleration or braking. Take turns and speed bumps slowly.

Limited Access

Only necessary personnel in truck during transit to prevent accidental damage.

Settling Into New Location

The final placement process completes the piano moving procedure.

Check for Damage

Inspect piano thoroughly once unloaded before movers leave. Document any new scratches or dings.

Environmental Controls

Maintain ideal temperature and humidity in piano’s new room.

Tuning Appointment

Schedule technician to tune and inspect piano as soon as possible after moving.

Cautious Unpacking

Carefully remove all protective coverings, straps, stabilizing equipment according to directions.

Precise Placement

Adjust exact location away from vents, windows. Leave adequate room to open lid and pull out bench.

Conclusion

While moving a piano presents challenges, taking the proper precautions and hiring specialized movers can greatly minimize risks. Follow the recommendations in this guide for a smooth piano moving process from start to finish. With diligent preparation and care, your piano can arrive safely at its new destination ready to play.

FAQs About Moving a Piano Safely

Moving a piano can be a stressful endeavor full of potential mishaps. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about moving pianos safely:

How much does it typically cost to move a piano?

For local moves under 50 miles, expect to pay an average of $300-$600. Long distance moves may range from $800 for a few hundred miles to $2000+ for cross country relocation. Get quotes from multiple specialized piano movers to compare.

What qualifications should professional piano movers have?

Reputable piano movers should be licensed, insured, bonded, have a DOT number, piano-specific insurance coverage, and extensive experience with all piano types. References from previous piano-owning clients are ideal.

Can I move a piano myself?

Moving a piano without proper equipment and training is extremely risky and not advisable.