The Ultimate Guide to Safely Moving a Grand Piano

Moving a grand piano is no small feat. It’s a delicate, heavy, and expensive instrument that requires careful planning and execution to avoid damage or injury. Unlike moving a spinet or upright piano, a grand piano’s size and shape present unique challenges. This comprehensive guide provides detailed steps and instructions to help you move a grand piano safely and efficiently, whether you’re doing it yourself (with a lot of help!) or hiring professional movers.

Disclaimer: Moving a grand piano is inherently risky. If you’re not confident in your abilities or don’t have the necessary equipment and manpower, it’s strongly recommended to hire professional piano movers. They have the experience, specialized equipment, and insurance to handle the job safely and protect your piano and your property.

Understanding the Challenges

Before diving into the steps, it’s crucial to understand the challenges involved in moving a grand piano:

* Weight: Grand pianos can weigh anywhere from 500 to over 1200 pounds, depending on their size and construction. This weight makes them difficult to lift, maneuver, and control.
* Size: A grand piano’s large size can make it difficult to navigate through doorways, hallways, and staircases. Precise measurements and careful planning are essential.
* Delicate Components: Grand pianos have many delicate components, including the soundboard, strings, hammers, and keys, which can be easily damaged if not handled properly.
* Uneven Weight Distribution: The weight distribution in a grand piano is often uneven, making it challenging to balance and control during movement.

Assessing the Situation and Planning

Proper planning is the key to a successful piano move. Before you even think about touching the piano, consider the following:

1. Evaluate the Piano: Note the make, model, and dimensions of the piano. This information will help you estimate its weight and size, which is crucial for planning the move. Document any existing scratches, dents, or other damage to the piano before you begin. Take pictures and videos for your records. This will be helpful if any new damage occurs during the move.

2. Measure Everything: This is arguably the most important step. Carefully measure the piano’s length, width, and height. Then, measure all doorways, hallways, staircases, and elevators along the moving route. Pay attention to narrow spots, tight corners, and low ceilings. Note any obstacles, such as railings, light fixtures, or furniture, that might need to be removed or protected.

3. Plan the Route: Choose the safest and most direct route from the piano’s current location to its destination. Consider the terrain, obstacles, and potential hazards. If there are stairs involved, assess their condition and determine the best way to navigate them. If you’re moving the piano to a different building, consider the distance and the traffic conditions.

4. Gather Supplies: You’ll need a variety of supplies to protect the piano and facilitate the move. Here’s a comprehensive list:

* Piano Skid Board: A sturdy wooden platform with carpet padding used to safely transport the piano on its side. Essential for grands.
* Piano Dolly (Heavy-Duty): A four-wheeled dolly specifically designed for moving heavy objects like pianos.
* Moving Blankets (Quilted): Several thick, quilted moving blankets to protect the piano’s finish from scratches and dents.
* Furniture Pads: Additional padding for protecting legs and other detachable parts.
* Straps (Heavy-Duty): Strong, wide straps to secure the piano to the skid board and dolly.
* Gloves (Work Gloves): Provide a better grip and protect your hands.
* Tape (Moving Tape): To secure moving blankets and pads.
* Wrenches/Screwdrivers: To disassemble and reassemble the piano’s legs (if necessary).
* Cardboard/Plywood: For protecting floors and walls.
* Ramps (if needed): Sturdy ramps for navigating stairs or uneven surfaces.
* Bubble Wrap: For extra protection of delicate parts.
* Measuring Tape: To double-check measurements.
* Marker: For labeling boxes and parts.
* Floor Protectors: To prevent damage to floors.

5. Recruit Help: Do not attempt to move a grand piano by yourself. You’ll need at least four to six strong and capable adults to assist you. Coordinate with your helpers in advance, assign roles, and discuss the moving plan. Emphasize the importance of safety and communication.

6. Consider Insurance: Check your homeowner’s insurance policy to see if it covers damage to your piano during a move. If not, consider purchasing additional moving insurance to protect your investment.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Once you’ve assessed the situation, planned the move, and gathered your supplies, you can begin the actual moving process. Follow these steps carefully:

Step 1: Prepare the Piano

* Close and Lock the Keyboard Lid: Secure the keyboard lid to prevent it from opening during the move. Use the built-in locking mechanism if available. If not, use tape or a protective cover.
* Wrap the Piano: Cover the entire piano with moving blankets, securing them with tape. Pay special attention to the corners and edges, which are most vulnerable to damage. Overlap the blankets to provide maximum protection.
* Protect the Legs: Carefully wrap each leg with furniture pads and secure them with tape. You can also use bubble wrap for added protection.

Step 2: Remove the Legs (If Necessary)

* Assess Leg Removal: Removing the legs can make the piano easier to maneuver through tight spaces. However, it’s not always necessary or advisable. If you’re unsure about removing the legs, consult a professional piano technician.
* Prepare for Leg Removal: Before removing the legs, place a thick moving blanket or furniture pad on the floor to protect the piano’s underside. Have your helpers ready to support the piano as you remove each leg.
* Remove the Legs: Use a wrench or screwdriver to loosen the bolts or screws that secure the legs to the piano. Gently remove each leg and carefully set it aside. Label each leg to ensure proper reassembly later.
* Store the Legs: Wrap each leg individually with bubble wrap and place them in a sturdy box. Fill any empty space in the box with packing peanuts or crumpled paper to prevent the legs from shifting during transport.

Step 3: Place the Piano on the Skid Board

* Position the Skid Board: Place the piano skid board next to the piano, ensuring that it’s oriented correctly.
* Lift the Piano: With the help of your assistants, carefully lift the piano and position it onto the skid board. Make sure the piano is centered on the board and that the weight is evenly distributed. If the legs have been removed, tilting the piano carefully and sliding the skid board underneath might be the best approach.
* Secure the Piano to the Skid Board: Use heavy-duty straps to secure the piano to the skid board. Wrap the straps around the piano and the board, tightening them firmly to prevent the piano from shifting.

Step 4: Move the Piano

* Use the Piano Dolly: Carefully place the piano skid board (with the piano secured to it) onto the piano dolly. Ensure that the dolly is rated for the weight of the piano.
* Communicate Clearly: Designate one person as the leader to coordinate the move. Clearly communicate instructions and warnings to your helpers throughout the process.
* Move Slowly and Carefully: Push the piano dolly slowly and carefully, avoiding sudden stops or sharp turns. Keep the piano balanced and stable at all times.
* Navigate Obstacles: When navigating obstacles, such as doorways or hallways, take your time and maneuver the piano carefully. Use cardboard or plywood to protect floors and walls from scratches.
* Staircase Maneuvering (If Applicable): Moving a grand piano up or down stairs is extremely challenging and dangerous. It’s highly recommended to hire professional movers for this task. If you must attempt it yourself, use ramps and a winch system to control the piano’s descent or ascent. Have plenty of helpers to guide the piano and prevent it from tipping over.

Step 5: Transporting the Piano

* Secure the Piano in the Moving Vehicle: If you’re transporting the piano in a moving truck or van, secure it to the walls with straps. Use additional moving blankets to protect it from shifting during transit. Avoid transporting the piano in an open truck bed.
* Drive Carefully: Drive slowly and carefully, avoiding potholes and other road hazards. Monitor the piano frequently to ensure that it remains secure.

Step 6: Unloading and Reassembling

* Reverse the Process: Once you’ve reached your destination, carefully unload the piano from the moving vehicle and move it to its final location. Follow the same precautions and procedures as you did during the loading process.
* Reassemble the Legs (If Removed): If you removed the legs, carefully reattach them to the piano, ensuring that they are securely fastened. Use the labels you created earlier to match the legs to their original positions.
* Remove the Protective Materials: Once the piano is in place, remove the moving blankets, furniture pads, and tape.

Step 7: Tuning and Maintenance

* Allow the Piano to Acclimatize: After the move, allow the piano to acclimatize to its new environment for a few days before tuning it. This will allow the wood to adjust to the temperature and humidity levels.
* Tune the Piano: Moving a piano can affect its tuning. Schedule a professional piano tuning to ensure that it sounds its best.
* Inspect for Damage: Carefully inspect the piano for any damage that may have occurred during the move. Contact a professional piano technician if you notice any problems.

Tips for Hiring Professional Piano Movers

If you decide to hire professional piano movers, here are some tips to help you choose the right company:

* Get Multiple Quotes: Obtain quotes from several different moving companies and compare their prices, services, and insurance coverage.
* Check References: Ask for references from previous customers and contact them to inquire about their experience.
* Verify Insurance: Make sure the moving company has adequate insurance coverage to protect your piano in case of damage.
* Read Reviews: Check online reviews and ratings to get an idea of the company’s reputation.
* Ask About Experience: Inquire about the movers’ experience in moving grand pianos. Choose a company with a proven track record.
* Get a Written Contract: Obtain a written contract that outlines the services to be provided, the price, and the terms and conditions.

Safety Precautions

* Wear Proper Footwear: Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good traction to prevent slips and falls.
* Lift with Your Legs: When lifting the piano, bend your knees and keep your back straight. Avoid twisting or jerking motions.
* Communicate Clearly: Communicate clearly with your helpers throughout the move. Use hand signals or verbal cues to coordinate your movements.
* Take Breaks: Take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue and prevent injuries.
* Don’t Rush: Rushing can lead to mistakes and injuries. Take your time and move carefully.
* Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings and watch out for obstacles or hazards.

Conclusion

Moving a grand piano is a challenging task that requires careful planning, preparation, and execution. By following these detailed steps and instructions, you can increase your chances of moving your piano safely and efficiently. However, it’s important to remember that moving a grand piano is inherently risky, and hiring professional movers is often the best option. If you’re not confident in your abilities or don’t have the necessary equipment and manpower, don’t hesitate to call in the experts. Your piano and your safety are worth it!