How To Move A Piano Safely: DIY Guide

Nov 10, 2022 Moving a piano is among the most challenging tasks whether you are relocating locally or long-distance (over 80km). Typically, a piano can cost $3000 – $6500. Since the musical instrument is bulky and expensive, it needs extra care and attention while handling and transporting. You can hire budget removalists Melbourne to move your piano, and they will charge up to $500. Therefore, you must get quotes from multiple removalists to find an affordable option. Moving a piano requires time, energy and effort, but if you don’t have the budget to hire professionals, plan to move the instrument yourself. Here’s your complete DIY guide for moving a piano safely. Have a look.

Measure the Piano & Entry Points

Pianos are bulky and challenging to move, which is why you must know the measurement of your piano to prepare for moving it and choose the right moving truck. After measuring the instrument, measure the doorway, stairway and pathways to ensure the instrument can easily go through them. Ensure it is not a tight fit because the piano will take more space after packing or positioning on a skid board. Taking measurements will also help you determine whether the piano needs dismantling. If yes, you can plan to pack and move the parts accordingly. However, only decide to dismantle the instrument when you can get professional assistance for reassembly.

Get Quality Packing Supplies

Refrain from being stingy while purchasing packing supplies because you need reliable materials to secure the instrument. You will need thick and full-size moving blankets with premium plastic wraps. In addition, get packing tape, bubble/foam wrap and towels. The aim is to securely wrap the instrument to protect it during handling and jostling. If you have a grand piano, getting a skid board is necessary.

Say Yes to Moving Equipment

Taking the piano from the house to the moving truck is a big task; you will need moving equipment to make it less stressful. Professional removalists in Melbourne use a moving dolly to wheel out large and heavy contents. Furthermore, they secure the items with straps with tight latches. Thus, you will need the two pieces of equipment in addition to harnesses, furniture sliders and a skid board.

Clean Before Packing

Exposure to heat, moisture and other environmental elements during transportation jeopardises the structural integrity of the piano. As a general rule of packing, never wrap things before removing dust, grime and other contaminants. If you don’t clean the instrument before wrapping, the chances of discolouration, mould development, wood blisters and other issues are high. Therefore, using a microfiber cloth, wipe every part of the piano. For stubborn grime, use a mild cleaner diluted with water. Ensure the instrument has time to dry completely before putting moving blankets and plastic wrap on it.

Pack Piano Securely

A piano is a heavy, awkward and fragile instrument that needs careful handling. Therefore, follow these expert techniques to pack it securely.

• Cover the piano keys and peddle with foam or bubble wrap. Tape the ends of the wraps with packing tape. If the piano has a lid, close and secure it with packing tape.
• Apply foam or bubble wrap section on corners to protect them during shifting and loading/unloading.
• Next, put a moving blanket on the entire piano, ensuring no area remains uncovered.
• Secure the blanket with plastic wrap and packing tape.
• Don’t wrap or tape extremely tightly.

Don’t Move the Instrument Alone

Avoid falls or moving injuries by taking the assistance of a family member to lift and move the piano. The best way to handle any heavy items and appliances is for one person to lift them from the bottom on one side and the other person lifting from the top on the other side. Wear gloves to protect your hands and wrists from scrapes, cuts and bruises. Harnesses and straps will come in handy to lift the instrument without misbalancing. Additionally, both persons involved in the handling of the instrument must move in synchronisation.

Load on the Moving Truck Correctly

A piano should be packed and loaded on the moving truck first. You should keep it against the back wall of the moving truck and secure it with moving straps. Get a wooden plank to keep the piano on the truck’s floors. If you don’t, the instrument can wobble and sustain damage. During loading, ensure the piano is steady and there is enough space between moving boxes & the instrument. Also, never keep anything over the piano, as it increases the risk of damage to the instrument.

The Bottom Line

Moving a piano takes time, energy and effort. You must do it expertly and carefully to prevent damage and financial loss. Therefore, many people hire professional removalists in Melbourne to move their pianos. You can too, but if you don’t have the money, use this guide to move a piano like a pro.