How to Move a Piano

Moving a piano is no simple task. Whether you’re shifting it to another room or transporting it to a new home, a piano is far more than just another heavy piece of furniture. With sensitive internal components, delicate foot pedals, and significant weight—often ranging from several hundred to over a thousand pounds—moving a piano incorrectly can lead to costly damage or personal injury.

While some homeowners may consider a DIY approach, professional piano movers bring the expertise, equipment, and experience necessary to ensure a seamless relocation. In this guide, we’ll cover essential tips for safe piano moving, common mistakes to avoid, and why hiring professional movers is often the best decision.

Why Moving a Piano is Challenging

A piano’s weight and delicate construction make it uniquely difficult to move. Many pianos are not designed to be lifted or rolled across floors, and improper handling can cause damage to the piano itself, your flooring, and even your walls.

Key Challenges of Moving a Piano:

• Heavy and awkward shape: Pianos are bulky and require multiple people to lift safely.
• Fragile internal components: The strings, hammers, and soundboard are highly sensitive.
• Risk of floor and wall damage: Incorrect handling can result in dents, scratches, or gouges.
• Personal injury risks: A piano is heavy enough to cause serious injuries if dropped or lifted incorrectly.

Before attempting to move your piano, it’s essential to assess whether you have the right tools, space, and help—or whether hiring a professional is the safest choice.

Preparation for Moving a Piano

Before attempting to move a piano, proper preparation is essential.

1. Map Out the Moving Path – Measure the piano’s dimensions and compare them with the width of door frames, hallways, and staircases.
2. Clear Obstacles – Remove rugs, furniture, and any potential tripping hazards.
3. Protect Floors and Walls – Lay down protective coverings to prevent scuffs and scratches.
4. Gather the Right Equipment:
   • Moving blankets or padding
   • Dollies and hand trucks
   • Lifting straps
   • Tie-down straps and wheel chocks
   • Packing tape or bungee chords to secure your blankets or loose parts
   • Work gloves and safety gear (back support belts, closed-toe shoes)
5. Secure Pets and Children – Tiny hands and feet, or curious noses can be distracting
6. Recruit Enough Help – Pianos require at least four to five people for safe lifting and maneuvering.

Considerations for Different Types of Pianos

Upright Pianos

Upright pianos, which weigh between 300 to 500 pounds, may be more compact than grand pianos but still pose challenges due to their height and weight. They require careful maneuvering around tight corners and staircases. When moving an upright piano, securing the back panel and keys is crucial. Using a piano dolly and having at least two to three people assisting can prevent damage to both the instrument and surroundings.

Baby Grand & Grand Pianos

Grand and baby grand pianos, which range from 500 to 1,200 pounds, present unique challenges due to their long, delicate legs and exposed soundboards. These pianos must be partially disassembled before moving, with the lid, legs, and pedals carefully removed. A piano skid board and secure strapping are essential for safe transport. Due to the complexity, professional movers are highly recommended for handling grand pianos.

Digital Pianos & Keyboards

Digital pianos and keyboards, typically weighing between 20 to 200 pounds, are much easier to transport but still require proper protection. The biggest risk is damage to their internal electronics. It is best to pack them in a padded case, remove any detachable components, and avoid placing heavy objects on top of them.

Player Pianos & Specialty Pianos

Player pianos and specialty pianos vary widely in weight and complexity, often featuring additional mechanical components such as self-playing systems and intricate internal wiring. These pianos are especially fragile, requiring extra care. All moving parts should be secured, excessive tilting should be avoided, and custom crating is recommended for long-distance moves.

Step-by-Step Guide for Moving a Piano

Moving an Upright Piano

1. Secure the Keyboard Lid – Wrap the lid with tape to prevent it from opening.
2. Wrap Pedals and Legs – Use plastic stretch wrap and tape to secure them.
3. Use Moving Blankets – Wrap the entire piano and secure with tape.
4. Lift with a Dolly or Hand Truck – Position helpers on all sides and lift the piano safely onto the dolly.
5. Load the Piano Into the Truck – Always place the piano against the back wall of the truck and secure it with tie-down straps.

Moving a Grand Piano

1. Lower and Secure the Top Lid – Prevent accidental opening during the move.
2. Remove the Legs and Pedals – Use a screwdriver for disassembly.
3. Wrap All Parts – Protect the main body, legs, and pedals with moving blankets.
4. Lift onto a Skid Board – Secure with straps and place on a dolly for transport.
5. Load into the Truck – Place against the back wall and fasten with tie-down straps.

Moving a Piano on Its Side

• If maneuvering through narrow doorways or tight spaces, pianos may need to be tilted onto their side briefly.
• Always lift evenly and do not leave the piano on its side for extended periods.
• Once through the obstacle, return the piano to its upright position immediately.

Final Thoughts: Choose Professional Piano Movers for a Hassle-Free Move

Moving a piano is a complex task that requires careful planning and expertise. While in-home moves may be manageable with the right precautions, long-distance relocations are best left to professionals who have the equipment and skills to ensure a safe transport.

At Midway Moving & Storage, we specialize in piano moving services throughout Chicago, IL, and beyond. Whether you’re moving your piano across the room or across the city, our trained team will handle your instrument with the care and precision it deserves.

Key Takeaways

✅ Plan your moving path, clear obstacles, and measure doorways

✅ Use the right equipment—dollies, straps, moving blankets, and safety gear

✅ Secure the keyboard lid, pedals, and wrap the piano properly

✅ Never leave a piano on its side for too long during the move

✅ Hire professional movers for stress-free, safe transportation

Contact Us Today

Ensure your piano reaches its new home in perfect condition. Call Midway Moving & Storage at (866) 693-4148 or request a free quote today!