Essential Tips for Moving Pianos Safely
Moving a piano safely and efficiently can be difficult for those with no experience. For most piano owners, it is far easier and safer to hire true moving professionals with years of experience transporting pianos such as baby grand and grand pianos.
Pianos can be heavy and they require special care in order to ensure they get to their destination safely. Special equipment and skills are needed to avoid damages to the piano and injuries.
Below are helpful tips for moving a piano safely:
Calling For Help From Professional Piano Movers
Don't be afraid to ask for help, and never attempt to move a piano on your own if you don't have the experience, manpower or equipment.
Find piano movers in your area that offer piano moving services. Try to schedule an appointment with them so they can come take a look at the piano and assess potential challenges with negotiating space such as elevators, hallways, lawns, etc.
Many piano moving companies will move pianos without actually seeing it beforehand, but it's always best to have them examine it and the space it is in, in case there is any existing damage or anything else of concern such as tight spaces which may require extra attention.
Ensure the Piano Movers Are Insured
Make sure the piano movers have insurance coverage as well for added protection and peace of mind for both parties involved during the transport process! If there is any damage that occurs during the move, liability insurance may be required.
Read the Reviews
In addition to piano moving insurance, it's always a good idea to read reviews and testimonials of piano moving companies that you are considering using in order to get an honest opinion from past customers about their services and professionalism. This is a great way to learn if they have any outstanding complaints or issues against them that may be relevant to the piano transport process.
Packing the Piano
When packing up your piano, be sure everything is packed tightly and wrapped with extra cushioning so it does not move around during shipping.
Professional piano movers will also use heavy-duty straps that will secure the piano in the piano moving truck. Many piano sellers and owners also recommend investing in special padding if you have a high-end piano to protect it from excessive damage during shipping; however, this is something that piano movers are also equipped with at their disposal.
Ensure the Keyboard is Secure and Protected
The keyboard lid must be closed and locked to prevent movement and potential damage before wrapping the piano. Pro tip: do not tape the keyboard lid as the tape may ruin the finish of the piano.
Wrapping the Piano Securely
Professional movers will bring padding such as blankets to wrap the piano. They will ensure that corners are covered and that there is no movement when wrapping the piano. Unwrapped piano may be moved, but this will cause damage to the piano. Most piano movers do not move pianos without padding for protection.
Lifting and Moving the Piano
When possible, the legs of the piano should not be used to move the piano. Instead, a piano will typically be moved by tipping it from its backside (when the piano is placed on its back, this is known as 'tip-up'). Pianos should never be lifted with the front legs pointed up or down.
Securing the Piano in the Moving Truck
When securing the piano in the truck, San Diego piano movers will typically place piano straps around the piano to prevent it from moving during transit. Straps should be placed as low on the piano as possible, over the side that is against the piano mover's truck bed. Tightening piano straps too much is not recommended because this could cause damage to piano legs or piano tuning pins. Occasionally, a piano may need to be secured using ropes instead of piano straps.
Piano movers will usually secure the piano at the back wall to provide extra piano support. Once the piano is at least 4 feet from all sides of the piano mover's truck bed, it should be safe for piano movers to transport the piano.
Moving the Piano into the New Space
Ensure the pathway and the space are adequately cleared with no trip hazard. Your piano mover will ensure he is clear on the game plan and pathway before the piano is actually moved.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring Professional Piano Movers
Finally, here are some additional questions to ask potential NYC piano movers before hiring one:
- How long have you been in business?
- Are you licensed and bonded?
- What piano moving methods are your most common and preferred methods of piano moving?
- Do you have insurance if any damage occurs during piano transportation?
- Can I speak with an existing client who had piano movers come into their home for moving service?
- How do piano movers determine whether they can move a particular brand?
Moving pianos can be a stress-free and smooth experience, with the right people doing the job. Protect your beautiful piano by hiring a professional piano mover in your city.