Have you ever wondered how to move a piano by yourself? There are two reliable methods for moving a piano safely and without damaging it or having an accident and causing yourself an injury. We’ll detail both methods in this article.
Why are pianos hard to move?
First, let’s examine the reasons pianos are so hard to move. Pianos are among the most difficult household items to move, even from one room to another. They weigh a tonne, and we’re not using the idiom for being very heavy. In many cases, they actually weigh a tonne or more, which is beyond most people’s ability to move without special equipment or help.
Adding to the complexity of moving pianos is their size, irregular shape and uneven distribution of weight through the parts. The bulk of the weight is in the harp. They are generally made from cast iron. In upright pianos, this puts the bulk of the weight in the top or sides, which means they tip easily when lifted off the ground.
But what about the wheels?
Most pianos have small wheels or casters. These are to help position the piano once you have placed it in a room and to protect the floor. They aren’t designed to move a piano any significant distance, including from one room to another. If you attempt to move a piano on these wheels alone, you will very likely damage your piano and floors.
How to move your piano safely
Preparation is essential before you attempt to move your piano. You will need moving equipment and help. We recommend you have at least four strong, able-bodied people to do the job.
Here is the list of moving equipment required:
- A good supply of moving blankets. Do not use regular blankets. Moving blankets are thicker and sturdier and offer much better protection.
- Packing materials to cover the entire piano, including foam and bubble wrap, protective covers, packing tape and ratchet straps.
- A moving dolly with the right specifications for taking the full weight of the piano.
- A specialist piano skid if you have a grand piano.
- Metal ramps for stairs and the truck. Again, these need to bear the full weight of the piano.
Packaging your piano
Before you move your piano anywhere, you need to package it. Use foam pads to secure the keys. Seal the lid and fallboard so they can’t accidentally open. Protect the pedals with bubble wrap, then wrap the piano with protective blankets and fasten them securely in place with ratchet straps. Everyone needs to maintain a secure grip on the piano at all times, so all protective covers must be secure so they won’t slip.
Measure the piano and plan your route
Your piano will be larger once you have packaged it up for moving. Measure its height, width and length. Then plan your route from the house to the moving truck, providing ample space for the piano and the people moving it. Avoid as many narrow passages or tight turns as possible. If you get the piano stuck, you could cause a lot of damage to it and your house. Position your metal ramps if you have stairs.
Get ready to make the move
Position the dolly lengthwise beside the piano and get everyone ready. The easiest method is to have four people lift the piano and have a fifth person slide and position the dolly underneath it. Then bring the piano to rest on the dolly. Otherwise, carefully move the piano onto the dolly.
Once you have it on the dolly, strap it in place to prevent it from moving, tipping or sliding. Slowly and carefully move your piano along your pre-planned route. If you have a spare person, their job is to maintain a wider view to watch for potential problems or hazards. Slow down when you negotiate corners and your way through doors.
Getting it down stairs
It is extremely dangerous to move a piano down stairs if you don’t have the right equipment or enough fit, strong people to bear the weight. Take your time. Position the piano on the metal ramps and guide it down. Remember, you’re dealing with a tonne or more of weight, so ensure your team can comfortably manage the weight before you attempt to get it down the stairs.
If the moving truck doesn’t have a tail lift, you will need your metal ramps again to get the piano loaded. Once you have it loaded, secure the piano in place so it can’t move around. Drive to your new home and repeat the process in reverse. All done. Congratulations!
The much, much easier method
This method is fast, reliable and so much easier. It requires one person and a phone. Simply contact us and book our team to move your piano. We have the equipment and experience to move your piano anywhere. All done. Congratulations!