How to Pack and Move a Piano

17th September 2023

Pianos come in various types, such as Grand, Upright, and Electronic. Electronic pianos are the most manageable to move. Depending on the piano's size, two to three people are usually required for loading onto a moving carrier.

Pianos, due to their size and unique shape, pose challenges during relocation. In this article, we'll outline steps for a smoother piano-moving process.

Assess Your Piano

Determine your piano's type and dimensions. This information guides your moving strategy.

Gather Necessary Supplies

Gather essential moving supplies:

Heavy-duty furniture straps

Moving blankets or pads

Packing tape

Furniture dolly

Screwdriver (for disassembling if needed)

Prepare the Piano

Before moving, prepare the piano:

Remove all fragile and loose items from it.

Secure the keyboard lid to prevent it from opening during transit.

Lock any caster wheels or pedals.

Ensure Proper Handling

Coordinate with your moving team:

Ensure everyone knows their role and the plan.

Use proper lifting techniques to avoid injury.

Protect the Piano

Wrap the piano in moving blankets or pads:

Cover the entire instrument to protect its finish.

Secure the blankets with packing tape to keep them in place.

Loading the Piano

Carefully load the piano onto a furniture dolly:

Place the dolly beneath the piano's base.

Strap the piano securely to the dolly.

Ensure it's balanced and stable before moving.

Maneuvering Stairs

When dealing with stairs:

Assign one person to guide and support the piano while others handle the dolly.

Move slowly and cautiously, taking one step at a time.

Transporting the Piano

Load the piano onto a suitable moving vehicle:

Ensure it's securely fastened to prevent shifting during transit.

Drive carefully, avoiding sudden stops and sharp turns.

Unloading and Placement

Upon reaching your destination:

Carefully unload the piano from the vehicle.

Place it in its new location, ensuring it's on a level surface.

Tuning and Maintenance

After the move:

Allow the piano to acclimate to the new environment for a few weeks.

Consider tuning to restore its optimal sound quality.

Professional Movers

For valuable or exceptionally heavy pianos, professional movers with piano-moving expertise can be a wise investment.

Insurance

Check your insurance coverage to ensure your piano is protected during the move. Consider additional coverage if necessary.

In summary, moving a piano requires careful planning, preparation, and teamwork. Understand your piano's type, gather the right supplies, protect it adequately, and follow the outlined steps for a successful move. Whether you're moving a grand, upright, or electronic piano, these guidelines will help you navigate the process with greater ease and confidence.