A piano is more than just an elegant instrument that can produce beautiful music; it is also a valuable piece of decor that can enhance a room’s aesthetic. However, anyone who has moved a piano in the past can agree on one thing: pianos are heavy and can be downright cumbersome to move, even just to the other side of a small room.
Not only that--you risk seriously injuring yourself if you are not careful. Fortunately, you can complete the job safely, whether you are moving your piano to a different room or across the country. Read on to learn more.
With Professional Help
The best possible way to ensure a safe move is to hire professional movers. Do note, however, that not all movers offer the same services. Many surprisingly have little to no experience with transporting pianos. Therefore, before making your decision, research your chosen company thoroughly. Despite their best efforts, inexperienced movers risk damaging your piano, especially if they attempt to treat it like a couch.
Even once you track down a company that specializes in moving pianos, you should make sure they have a promising track record. For example: has anyone written a review for them online? What did they say? For added protection, ask potential companies about their licensure and insurance coverage.
Without Professional Help
While moving your piano yourself might seem like a more cost-effective decision, it is so much riskier and might end up costing you more should your piano be damaged or you injured. If you do choose to go this route, you should consider the options and equipment below.
Supplies You’ll Need
To successfully move a piano, you’ll need a reliable group of friends and the right equipment. Here is what you will need:
A furniture dolly big and sturdy enough to support your piano
Hump straps- these are placed behind the piano’s wheels; you use the ends to extend the mover’s arms by wrapping around the wrists
E-track belt- used to secure the piano in place
Moving pads- similar to a thick blanket, these are used to wrap the piano and protect it from scratches
Skid or Piano board- a padded, flat base to support the piano
Shoulder harness- a tool used to make heavy lifting a bit easier by encouraging proper lifting techniques, also called a “shoulder dolly”
Keep in mind, a piano’s weight can range anywhere from 450 to 1300 lbs, so assemble a group of helpers experienced with heavy lifting. Piano moving is a slow, steady process, in which all movers must mind each other.
The Basic Steps
Step 1: If you’re moving a piano from the ground floor to another room or a moving truck, start by closing or removing the key cover and securing it if there is a latch mechanism.
Step 2: Close and secure the lid before carefully wrapping the piano with moving pads. Use the straps and a group of helpers to lift the piano onto the dolly and then secure it in place.
Step 3: If you’re moving a grand piano, you’ll want to remove the legs and wrap them separately. Push the dolly to the piano’s new destination; be sure to choose a clear path.
Step 4: If you’re transporting the piano to a moving van, use a ramp to make the transition easier. Be sure to secure the piano in place once you have loaded it.
Step 5: Unloading is a similar process to the above steps but in reverse. Carefully walk the piano down the ramp by having your group pace the speed that the piano moves. It’s going to be quite heavy and pull down naturally, so be careful as you descend the ramp.
Finding the Best Space
Once your piano has reached its new destination, you will need to consider how to position your piano in its new room. Avoid placing it close to a window or against an outer wall. This way, you’ll be less likely to damage the wood as the climate changes. Of course, you should also be careful to place the piano someplace where it will not be a safety hazard. For instance, it should obstruct any exits from the room.
Don’t forget to check the tuning once you have chosen a permanent place. Sometimes moving a piano can cause it to need tuning afterward.
Moving a piano is definitely a challenge, but if you take the right precautions, you can successfully transport it from one place to another without damaging it or sustaining any injuries yourself.
Author Bio: Daniel White serves as a Moving Partner of Bigger Better Movers and is preferred among the best local and long distance movers. He is appreciated not just for his moving expertise, but also for his ability to assist clients with critical decisions regarding their expensive item moving.
