How To Move A Piano

Step 1: Understand the Type of Piano You’re Moving

Not all pianos are created equal. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Upright Pianos: Generally weigh between 300–500 lbs. Easier to move but still requires caution.
• Baby Grand or Grand Pianos: Can weigh anywhere from 500 to 1,200 lbs. These often require partial disassembly and multiple movers.

Before you start planning, identify the kind of piano you’re dealing with and measure the piano and all doorways, hallways, and staircases involved in the move.

Step 2: Gather the Right Equipment

You can get by without the proper equipment for some DIY moves. For a piano, you’ll need more than muscle. Make sure you have:

• Piano dolly or skid board (depending on the type of piano)
• Heavy-duty moving straps
• Furniture blankets or moving pads
• Packing tape and stretch wrap
• Work gloves
• Measuring tape
• A truck with a loading ramp or liftgate (if moving off-site)

Don’t try to improvise with makeshift equipment. Pianos are too expensive, heavy, and fragile to take half measures–they require the right tools for safe handling.

Step 3: Protect the Piano

Before you begin moving anything, you need to prep the piano for the move:

• Close and lock the keyboard lid to protect the keys.
• Wrap the entire piano in moving blankets to prevent dings, dents, and scratches.
• Secure the blankets with packing tape or stretch wrap—never apply tape directly to the piano’s surface.

If you’re moving a grand or baby grand piano, the legs and pedals usually need to be removed first. Make sure to keep screws and small parts labeled and bagged for reassembly.

Step 4: Recruit Help

Never attempt to move a piano solo, even if you have the proper equipment. Depending on the size and weight of the piano, you’ll need at least two to four strong, capable movers. Everyone should wear appropriate footwear and gloves for grip and protection.

Communication is key. Make sure everyone understands the plan before lifting, especially if you’re navigating stairs or tight corners.

Step 5: Load the Piano Carefully

Use a piano dolly or skid board to transport the piano to the truck. Much like a refrigerator, keeping the piano oriented upright is important. Laying it on an unnatural plane can damage internal components.

Use loading ramps or liftgates to get the piano into the truck. Once inside, secure it with straps to prevent shifting during transport. Place the piano against a truck wall and wedge it with padded furniture or other secured items.

Step 6: Reassemble & Retune

Once you’ve reached your new destination and carefully unloaded the piano, reassemble any removed parts. Schedule a professional tuning after the piano has had a few days to adjust to its new environment. Pianos are sensitive to humidity and movement; tuning ensures they stay in top playing condition.