Moving a grand piano is no easy task. Not only is it extremely heavy, but it is also a delicate and expensive instrument that requires special care when being moved. Thankfully, with the right preparation and a few extra hands, it can be done safely and efficiently. In this step-by-step guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about how to move a grand piano, from preparing the piano for the move to the actual moving process to the cleaning and reassembly afterward. With the right guidance and a bit of patience, you can move your grand piano without any damage to the instrument or any harm to yourself. So, if you're ready to get started, let's dive into the step-by-step guide to moving a grand piano safely and efficiently.

Preparing the piano for the move

The first step in moving a grand piano is to prepare the instrument for the move. First, you will need to select a crew of helpers who are comfortable lifting the piano, and who have experience moving heavy objects. This will likely include moving professionals like movers and piano moving specialists. Next, you will need to locate a piano moving company or a hauling company. This will be the safest, most efficient, and best option for moving your piano. Finally, you will need to make sure the piano is ready for the move by clearing the surrounding area of all loose items that could fall and be damaged by the piano during the move. With the help, of these three tasks, your grand piano will be ready and prepared for the move.

a. Gather the necessary supplies

Next, you will need to gather all the supplies you will need for the move. This includes a piano dolly, piano straps, blankets, and a piano/instrument stand. A piano dolly is a wheeled cart that will help move the piano and is best for surfaces like wood, linoleum, and tile. A piano strap, which is usually made of a heavy-duty canvas, will help you secure the piano and keep it steady during the move. Piano straps should be attached to the dolly and piano using metal hooks. Blankets are used to cover the piano and protect it from scratches, debris, and other potential damage during the move. Finally, a piano/instrument stand can be used to hold up the piano during the move and will come in handy if you are not able to use a dolly.

b. Remove the piano lid and pedals

The next step in the move is to remove the piano lid and pedals. Once the lid is removed, you will be able to wrap the piano and secure it with the dolly and straps. This can be done by placing a piano support on top of the lid and securing it with straps. Next, remove the pedals. The pedal on the right is often called the “sustain pedal” and the pedal on the left is called the “soft pedal”. If you have an upright piano, both pedals are on the right side. Once you have removed the pedals, wrap them in a piano blanket to protect them from damage. You can also cover the keys with a piano blanket to prevent them from getting dusty during the move.

c. Attach the piano’s lid and pedals to the body

If you are moving the piano with the lid attached, you will need to lift the lid up and secure it to the body of the piano. If you are moving a grand piano with the lid detached, you will need to secure the lid to the body of the piano. To do this, attach the piano lid to the body using piano hinges.

Moving the piano

The next step in the process is to move the piano. If your piano can be moved manually, you will need to lift the piano off the ground and carefully move it to its new location. There are a few different ways you can do this. If the piano is heavy, you should use a piano dolly to move it. If the piano is in an area where you can’t use a dolly, you will have to lift it manually.

a. Choose the right people to help

Before you lift the piano, find people who are ready and prepared to help. Make sure they are physically fit enough to lift the piano and are wearing comfortable, sturdy shoes. You will also want to make sure the helpers are familiar with moving heavy objects, as the piano is not something that should be handled by inexperienced people.

b. Wrap the piano in blankets and secure the cover

The next step is to wrap the piano in blankets and secure the cover. This will protect the piano from scratches and damage during the move. There are a few different ways you can wrap the piano. The best way to wrap it will depend on the size of the piano and the size of the truck you are using to transport it. First, use a moving blanket to cover the surface of the piano that will be touched by the dolly. Next, use a large piano blanket to wrap and cover the entire piano. Finally, use a smaller piano blanket to cover the lid of the piano.

c. Lift the piano safely

If you are lifting the piano manually, make sure to lift it above your head and keep it level with your body. Avoid lifting the piano by its lid, as this can damage the piano. If you have a smaller piano, you can lift it by the legs. If you have a larger piano, you will have to lift it by the sides of the piano. In both cases, make sure to use a piano strap to secure the piano and keep it steady.

d. Secure the piano in the moving vehicle

The last step in the moving process is to secure the piano in the moving vehicle. If you are using a piano dolly, you can secure the piano by placing it on the dolly and covering it with the piano blanket. If you are not using a piano dolly, you can secure the piano in the vehicle using furniture pads. Place the pads around the piano, and secure them with straps. Make sure the straps are not too tight, as they could damage the piano if they are too tight.

a. Unwrap the piano and set it in its new location

Once you have moved the piano, it’s time to unwrap it and set it in its new location. To do this, remove the furniture pads and piano blankets and wrap them up for transport back to the original location. Once the blankets and pads are wrapped, move the piano to its new location. For the best results, place the piano against a wall to prevent it from falling over.

b. Clean the piano and surrounding area

Once you have moved the piano, it’s time to thoroughly clean the piano and surrounding area. Start by vacuuming the area around the piano, including the surrounding floor and walls. Next, clean the piano. Use a soft bristle brush to clean the keys and make sure to remove any debris and dirt. Finally, clean the surrounding area. Wipe down the floor, walls, and any furniture in the area.

c. Reattach the piano’s lid and pedals

Once you have moved the piano, cleaned it, and set it in its new location, you will then need to reattach the piano’s lid and pedals. If you have detached the lid during the move, you will need to reattach it. If you have detached the pedals during the move, you will need to reattach them. With the right preparation and a bit of patience, you can move your grand piano safely and efficiently. With the help of this step-by-step guide, you can move your grand piano without any damage to the instrument or any harm to yourself.