Moving a piano is a difficult task, and doing so without causing damage can be expensive. The best way to move a piano is by enlisting help from family, friends, or neighbors.
First, you must prepare for the move by taking precise measurements of doorways and stairways. This will ensure that the piano can safely navigate obstacles and tight spots. You must consult with Piano Transport professionals first.
Use the Right Tools
Pianos are one of the most difficult items to move successfully. Their size, weight, and delicate parts make them susceptible to damage if not handled properly. Whether you’re moving your instrument within your home or across town, understanding the steps involved and taking the necessary precautions can ensure a safe and successful relocation.
The first step in moving a piano is selecting the right tools for the job. Investing in a high-quality piano dolly, a hand truck, and lifting straps can greatly reduce the risk of injury and property damage during transportation. Additionally, a stair-climbing dolly can ease the strain on your back and help you navigate stairs more easily.
Next, you’ll need to wrap your piano in thick blankets or padding to protect it from exterior damage during transport. Ideally, you should use heavy-duty mattress pads designed for furniture moves, as standard cargo straps won’t provide the support and cushioning you need for such a large load.
Before starting the lift, be sure to take precise measurements of your vehicle and the doorways, staircases, and hallways in both locations. This will allow you to determine if your piano can safely fit and remove any obstacles that may be in the way. It’s also a good idea to clear out the pathways you’ll be using ahead of time, opening doors, and rearranging furniture as needed.
Take the Right Measurements
Pianos are extremely heavy objects that require a lot of lifting to safely transport. Recruiting several willing helpers, making sure everyone is wearing sturdy work gloves and using furniture moving straps to prevent hand injury and grip damage, and clearing the path of the piano before lifting are essential steps for a successful move. Recruit more helpers than you think you’ll need — a few extra hands make the job easier and faster. Offer a reward like lunch or another favor to encourage people to pitch in.
Plan a route and take a thorough survey of both your current home and the new location, factoring in doorways, hallways, stairs, and any other obstacles. It is a good idea to use a hygrometer to monitor the temperature and humidity of both locations, since extreme weather can change wood or cause keys to stick.
Depending on the model of your piano, you may need additional equipment to protect it during transportation. An upright piano can be moved with a furniture dolly, while a baby grand requires a piano board and extra padding. You should also cover the legs and pedals with thick padding secured with tape or bungee cords to reduce the risk of scratching. During transit, the vibrations and environmental changes can cause the piano to shift out of tune, so have a professional re-tune it once it’s settled in the new home.
Plan the Move
Pianos are large and heavy, so it is important to plan the move properly to avoid damage. Whether you are hiring professional movers or doing it yourself, proper preparation will help ensure that the instrument makes it safely to its new home.
Begin by assessing the current and destination locations, noting any obstacles that may present challenges. For example, it’s best to avoid moving the piano over uneven surfaces or up/down stairs. It’s also wise to identify any furniture or boxes that might obstruct the piano during transport. Additionally, it is a good idea to measure doorways, hallways, and tight corners in advance to ensure that the instrument can fit through them.
If the piano has detachable parts, it is a good idea to remove them beforehand to make the move easier. Also, be sure to lock or secure the lid to prevent it from opening during the move. Finally, be sure to wrap the piano and any removable parts in thick padding to protect them from scratches and dents.
Upright pianos can be moved with a pickup truck or van, but grand pianos require a larger vehicle and often specialized equipment. In addition to the right equipment, a team of strong movers is required for safe transport. To prevent injuries, be sure to use heavy-duty straps and a sturdy piano dolly designed for the instrument’s weight.
Ask for Help
Pianos are not only heavy, but they also have an awkward shape that makes them hard to maneuver. This is why it’s important to have enough help on hand to move a piano safely. Rally a few friends or family members who are physically fit and have some moving experience to assist with the move. You should have a minimum of four people for this task to be successful, but more hands can help make the process faster and easier.
Ask your helpers to wear work gloves so they don’t scratch or damage the piano during the move. You should also provide your movers with detailed instructions on how to move the piano safely, including how to lower and secure the top lid and remove any detachable parts. Inspect the piano for any signs of damage before and after the move. If you notice any damage, be sure to take photos of it and contact your movers for repair or replacement services.
After the piano is in its new home, keep it protected from temperature and humidity changes by using a digital hygrometer to monitor the environment. A professional piano tuning is also a good idea to get the strings back into tune. This helps the piano sound its best and ensures that it stays in good condition.