Moving a Piano: Tips & Tricks

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If you are a pianist at heart, moving your furniture in rhythm is a priority. Pianos are musical instruments that are valuable, heavy, and have an irregular shape. It is recommended that you hire professional movers to do the job. This is particularly true for homes with stairs or elevators. But if you have decided to move the piano by yourself, follow these tips:

• Just like in moving any heavy furniture, ask for help. 

• Get the right moving equipment for your piano, including moving pads, dollies, floor jacks, and heavy-duty straps. You can rent or purchase such equipment to make sure your piano is secured and protected from bumps when moving. 

• The keyboard lid should be protected at all times. Simply close and lock it. To prevent damaging the wood surface, do not use tape.

• Wrap the piano with padding thick enough to protect it from bumps and scratches, especially in the corners. Secure it with packing tape but make sure it will not touch the piano surface. 

• Avoid lifting the piano with its legs as they are extremely vulnerable to damage. Keep the piano in upright position. Get some extra hands supporting the four corners of the piano. Use the right piano moving equipment to lift and load it into the truck securely. 

• Place the piano next to the back wall of the moving truck, next to the back wall. Professional movers suggest using wood planks to ensure a level flooring for the piano. This will stabilize the piano during the move as it lessens the pressure on the casters and piano legs. The planks should be placed along the back wall. With the use of moving straps, secure the piano to the truck wall.

• Determine the exact location of where your piano should stand in your new home. Usually, it should be placed against a wall. 

• The inner workings are sensitive to movements. Call a professional tuner once your piano has been moved to your new home.