Moving a piano can be a challenging task, but with the right plan and equipment, it can be done safely and efficiently. Whether you are moving your piano to a new home or relocating it within your current residence, it’s important to follow proper procedures to ensure the piano’s protection and prevent any damage.
In this blog, we will outline the steps and precautions to take when moving a piano.
- Gather the Necessary Equipment
- Protect the Piano
- Disassemble the Piano (if necessary)
- Secure Help and Create a Plan
- Lift and Move the Piano
- Transport the Piano Safely
- Unload and Reassemble the Piano (if disassembled)
- Tune and Adjust the Piano
Gather the Necessary Equipment
Before you begin the moving process, gather all the necessary equipment. This will help make the move smoother and reduce the risk of damage to the piano.
Here are the essential items you will need:
- Piano dolly or moving straps
- Furniture blankets or moving pads
- Tools for disassembly, if required
- Packing tape and plastic wrap
- Piano covers or dust sheets
- Extra pair of hands
Having these tools and materials readily available will make the moving process much easier and safer for both you and the piano.
Protect the Piano
Pianos are delicate instruments that require careful handling to prevent damage. Before you start moving the piano, take necessary precautionary measures to protect it:
- Cover the piano with a piano cover or dust sheet to protect it from dust and scratches during the move.
- If you are moving the piano to another room within the same house, consider placing a plywood ramp over any stairs or uneven surfaces to ensure smooth and safe movement.
- Secure any loose parts or remove them if necessary. This will prevent damage to the piano during the move.
By taking these steps, you will minimize the risk of accidental damage to the piano during the moving process.
Disassemble the Piano (if necessary)
In some cases, you may need to disassemble the piano before moving it. This is typically required for grand pianos or upright pianos with removable parts.Follow these steps to disassemble a piano:
Follow these steps to disassemble a piano:
- Remove any sheet music or objects from the piano.
- Detach the pedal lyre and wrap it separately with protective padding.
- If applicable, remove the piano legs or detachable parts.
- Consult the piano’s manual or seek professional advice on how to properly disassemble your specific piano model.
Remember to keep all the screws, bolts, and small parts in a labeled container to avoid losing them during the move.
Secure Help and Create a Plan
Moving a piano is a team effort and it’s important to have adequate help during the process. Enlist the assistance of at least two strong individuals to help you lift and move the piano.
Before you start moving the piano, create a plan. Measure the doorways, hallways, and any other passages the piano needs to go through to ensure it will fit. Determine the safest and most efficient route for moving the piano, taking into account any potential obstacles or tight spaces.
Clear the path from any obstacles such as furniture or decorative items that may obstruct the way and lead to accidents during the move.
Lift and Move the Piano
When lifting and moving the piano, it is crucial to use proper lifting techniques and take necessary precautions:
- Start by positioning the piano dolly or attaching the moving straps securely to the piano.
- Ensure everyone involved in the move communicates and coordinates their actions to avoid any accidents or unexpected movements.
- Lift the piano carefully, using your legs and not your back, to avoid any strain or injuries.
- Move the piano slowly and steadily, taking breaks if needed. Avoid sudden movements that can cause the piano to lose balance or tip over.
Communication and teamwork are key when lifting and moving a piano. Keep a steady pace and make sure everyone involved is aware of the piano’s movements.
Transport the Piano Safely
Transporting the piano from one location to another requires careful handling and securing:
- If using a piano dolly, slowly roll the piano to the moving vehicle, ensuring its stability at all times.
- Secure the piano inside the vehicle using straps or ropes to prevent it from shifting during transportation.
- If the piano needs to be transported in a moving truck, choose a vehicle with a hydraulic lift to safely load and unload the piano.
- Drive slowly and avoid sudden stops or turns to prevent any potential damage to the piano.
- Check the piano periodically during transportation to ensure it remains secure and undamaged.
By following these guidelines, you can transport the piano safely and minimize the risk of damage during the journey.
Unload and Reassemble the Piano (if disassembled)
If you had to disassemble the piano for the move, now is the time to reassemble it:
Follow these steps to reassemble a piano:
- Consult the piano’s manual or seek professional guidance on how to correctly reassemble your specific piano model.
- Attach the piano legs or previously detached parts securely.
- Reattach the pedal lyre and ensure it is properly aligned and functioning.
- Remove any protective coverings or dust sheets from the piano.
Take your time to reassemble the piano correctly to avoid any potential issues or damage.
Tune and Adjust the Piano
After the piano has been moved and reassembled, it is important to have it tuned and adjusted by a professional piano tuner. The process of moving can cause the piano’s strings and components to shift, affecting its overall sound and performance.
