The Ultimate Guide to Moving a Piano Safely and Efficiently
Feb 20, 2025
Moving a piano is challenging and requires careful planning, the right equipment, and proper handling techniques. This guide will walk you through every step of the process, from preparation to post-move maintenance, ensuring a safe and smooth relocation.
Step 1: Understand the Challenges of Piano Moving
Pianos are large, heavy, and delicate instruments that present unique physical and logistical challenges during transport.
- Weight: Pianos range from 300 to 1200 pounds
- Fragile Components: Internal mechanisms and wooden exteriors are easily damaged
- Logistical Challenges: Moving through doorways, staircases, and narrow spaces requires planning
Piano Moving Considerations
| Piano Type | Special Considerations |
Grand Piano | Requires disassembly (lid, legs, pedals).Moved on its side. |
Upright Piano | Moved upright. Lid and pedals must be secured. |
Step 2: Preparing Your Piano for a Safe Move
Proper preparation is crucial for keeping your piano safe during a move. This process involves careful disassembly, appropriate packing materials, and specific techniques for grand and upright pianos. Proper preparation minimizes risks.
Equipment Needed for Safe Moving
Specialized equipment makes the transportation of a piano easier and prevents damage or injury. Professional movers have the following equipment to move a piano:
- Piano Dolly or Skid Board – Essential for weight distribution
- Furniture Straps – Secure the piano during movement
- Gloves with Grip – Prevents slipping
- Heavy-Duty Ramp – Helps with stairs and truck loading
Packing and Protecting the Piano
The next phase is using essential packing materials to carefully protect the piano:
- Moving blankets or furniture pads
- Bubble wrap
- Packing tape
- Corner protectors
- Plastic stretch wrap
- Cardboard sheets
Then the packing:
- Secure the keyboard lid: Lock it or tape it shut to protect the keys
- Remove and wrap loose parts: For grand pianos, remove the lid, lyre, and pedals, wrapping them individually
- Protect the exterior: Cover the entire piano with moving blankets and secure it with stretch wrap
- Use corner protectors: Prevents dents and scratches
Wrap the legs and pedals individually with bubble wrap. Secure the wrap with quality packing tape, avoiding direct contact with the piano’s surface.
Step 3: Moving the Piano Safely
After the piano has been secured and all the equipment is in place, the piano can be moved.
Remember: follow these essential safety steps:
Step-by-Step Moving Guide
1. Measure doorways and hallways to ensure a clear path
2. Lift with proper technique – Use your legs, not the back
3. Use a piano dolly for smooth transportation
4. Secure the piano in the moving truck with straps
5. Keep the piano upright to avoid internal damage
Step 4: Post-Move Care & Maintenance
Once your piano reaches its new location, don’t rush to tune it immediately.
🎵 Let the piano acclimate for a few weeks before tuning
🎵 Inspect for damages using pre-move documentation
🎵 Check the sound quality before deciding on tuning
🎵 Schedule professional maintenance to ensure longevity
🔹 Expert Tip: There is a common misconception that pianos go out of tune immediately when moved. This is strictly not true. Changes in temperature and humidity, rather than the move itself, are often responsible for tuning issues. If tuning is needed, schedule it with a professional technician after the acclimation period. Regular maintenance, including annual tuning, will help keep your piano in optimal condition,
Step 5: Choosing the Right Piano Movers
Moving is a stressful time, and finding a dependable moving company can make the transition much smoother and preserve the quality and condition of your piano.
Many people think they will take better care of their pianos, want to save the moving cost, or think they can do it themselves. However, professional movers offer many advantages.
DIY vs. Professional Movers
| Option | Pros | Cons |
| DIY Moving | · Lower cost· Flexible schedule | · High risk of irreparable damage or injury· Requires multiple strong people· Need specialized equipment |
| Professional Movers | · Expertise· Experience· Proper equipment· Insured services | · Higher cost· Requires scheduling |
If you opt for professional help, selecting the right moving company is key.
What to Look for in a Piano Mover:
- Experience with piano moving
- Specialized equipment for piano transport
- Positive customer reviews
- Adequate insurance coverage
How Much does it take to move a Piano?
On average, moving a piano locally costs between $300 and $850, depending on the size, distance, and complexity of the property. Get multiple quotes and clarify what’s included in the price.
Move Your Piano with Confidence
Moving a piano requires preparation, patience, and precision. While a DIY move is possible, hiring experienced movers is the best way to protect your instrument. Atlas Transfer & Storage Co. specializes in safe and efficient piano relocation. Contact us for a quote.
How to Move a Piano: Quick Checklist
✅ Before Moving
- ☑ Gather packing materials
- ☑ Measure doorways and paths
- ☑ Secure loose parts
✅ During Moving
- ☑ Use a dolly and straps
- ☑ Move carefully and slowly
- ☑ Secure piano in truck
✅ After Moving
- ☑ Inspect for damages
- ☑ Let the piano acclimate
- ☑ Schedule tuning if needed