3 Tips for Transporting a Piano Correctly

A piano is a heavy and delicate object to transport. Some can even weigh as much as 800 pounds or more. Their heavy and fragile nature means they can be quite easily damaged when being moved. When transporting a piano proper handling must be applied. Read on for 3 tips in how to transport a piano in the correct way.

1: Prepare the piano

Prepare the piano for the move. This should include making sure the piano key lid is shut and locked in order to protect the keys. Also make sure to double check that the lid is locked, as this will prevent the lid from accidentally flying open. Lock the spinet lid too, to prevent the interior of the piano becoming damaged. Next, wrap the piano in thick blankets or specialized moving blankets specifically made for this purpose, in order to prevent it being chipped, scratched or scored. Make sure the blankets are secured to the piano and that no sections are loose and hanging down, where they could be caught or snagged on something, or tripped upon.

2: Transport the piano correctly

Make sure that you have at least a couple of very strong individuals who know how to correctly handle a piano. For an upright piano, it is best if you have a dolly available to place the piano on, as this will take the burden of weight off from the transporters. If using a dolly, make sure the piano is tied or locked down onto it, and that the dolly glides easily. Remember that upright pianos tend to be very top-heavy. Take this into consideration when supporting the upright piano upon the dolly. Gently ease the piano along on the dolly. If the piano is being moved to another destination via a van, make sure there is a stable ramp attached to the back of the van in order to ease the dolly and piano up and into the van. Move it slowly and steadily. When moving a Grand Piano the procedure is much the same, but you must make sure that all doors you wish to move the piano through are tall enough to for the piano to pass, with several inches to spare incase of adjustment.

3: Destination

Once your piano has reached its destination, follow the above steps in reverse order. Remember that your piano will likely need to be re-tuned after it has been delivered. So make sure you have a piano tuners number available to call. Note that if you have any doubts about moving a piano yourself or via a regular removal company, that it is worthwhile arranging for a specialized piano moving company to move the piano for you. A specialized piano transport company will have all the necessary equipment and experience for transporting your piano in the best possible way. The risk of damage from incorrect handling is high, so the additional costs for specialized handlers is well worth it in terms of protecting your piano and giving you peace of mind. Check your local directly, or online, for reputable companies which specialize in transporting pianos.