How to Move a Piano

Pianos are often a prized possession in many households. However, it is also one of the most complicated pieces to move. Due to the weight, size, fragility, and value, it is recommended to hire professionals for transporting a piano. Heroes Moving & Storage has years of experience and has put together this guide on how to move a piano.    

  • Measure and plan
  • Gathering moving supplies
  • Moving an upright piano
  • Moving a grand piano
  • Moving a piano on its side
  • Tips to keep in mind

Measure and Plan

Planning ahead is a key factor in piano moving:

  • Map out a moving path for the home you are moving out of and the new home you are moving into. There should be plans for both locations to make sure that any obstructions are out of the path, and doors should be open or taken off the jambs if extra room is needed. 
  • Measure the size of the piano as well as any stairways, hallways, and door frames it will need to be moved through. This will also let you know what size moving truck or vehicle you will need. 
  • Protect the floors in all locations.
  • Pets and small children should not be nearby while the piano is moving.
  • Make sure a ramp is on hand if moving the piano up or downstairs.

Gather Moving Supplies

Proper moving supplies are another important factor:

  • Moving blankets
  • Hand trucks
  • Lifting straps
  • Tie-down straps
  • Packing tape
  • Work gloves

Depending on the size of the piano, other supplies, like bungee cords, might be needed. 

Moving an Upright Piano

As our movers have learned during our services, when you move an upright piano, make sure the pedals and keys are well-protected. Here are some tips for moving your upright piano:

  • Wrap the lid over the keyboard and secure it with packing tape to keep it closed throughout the move.
  • Wrap the pedals with plastic wrap and tape to secure them.
  • Next, using blankets, you should wrap all sides of the piano and secure this with tape.
  • With the piano wrapped and protected, you can start the rest of the moving process and get some help for this next part.
  • Lift the piano safely and place it on a dolly or hand truck using lifting straps.
  • Roll it onto the moving truck and make sure it is secured safely 

Make sure your moving company has all the proper equipment, just like Heroes Moving does! Whether the piano is 500, 600, or 1500 pounds, piano moving requires professional help and skills for safety. 

Moving a Grand Piano

Here is a step-by-step guide for moving a grand piano:

  1. Lower and secure the top lid.
  2. Use a screwdriver to disassemble the legs and pedals. 
  3. Hold the piano and remove the legs.
  4. Wrap the lid, keys, and all sides of the piano with moving blankets and secure it with tape.
  5. Wrap all the legs and pedals separately in moving blankets and tape.
  6. Load the parts into the moving truck. 
  7. Safely move the piano into the truck using lifting straps, dollies, and extra hands.

Moving a Piano on Its Side

If a piano needs to be moved around narrow doorways or into smaller areas, like pickup trucks or around tight corners, it will probably be easier to turn the piano on the side. It will not harm or damage the piano, but it should always be handled with care. Here’s how to move the piano on its side:

  • Assess the path you will have to take, adding moving blankets and soft materials around the piano to protect it and protect the walls and floors. 
  • Make sure the movers are all on the same page so that the move is smooth.
  • Wrap all legs and parts in moving blankets and tape to move separately. 
  • Balance is key in this move, so make sure all the movers communicate and are on the same page.

Piano Moving Tips to Keep in Mind 

Once the piano is in its new home, be prepared to tune it! Keys can shift during a move and could cause the piano to sound a little off. You could tune it right away, but we recommend waiting at least a month.

Other tips:

  • Clean the piano with a cloth to remove dust, lint, or any other residue from the moving blankets or other tools. 
  • Take your time! Whether it’s a grand piano or an upright piano, pianos are heavy, and the process shouldn’t be rushed and should be taken care of. 
  • Use a metal ramp if the piano is being moved up or downstairs.

Contact Heroes Moving & Storage

If you need any further help or information, contact Heroes Moving & Storage online today! Also, feel free to view the areas we serve.

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