Moving a piano isn’t just about lifting a heavy piece of furniture—it’s about safely transporting a delicate and intricate instrument without causing damage or injury. Whether you have an upright or a grand piano, moving it improperly can lead to costly repairs or even permanent damage.

Why Moving a Piano is So Challenging

Pianos can weigh anywhere from 300 to 1,200 pounds, but their weight isn’t the only issue. These instruments are:

  • Top-heavy – Easily unbalanced when lifted incorrectly.
  • Bulky and awkwardly shaped – Hard to maneuver through tight spaces.
  • Delicate inside – Packed with strings, hammers, and a fragile soundboard that can be damaged with one wrong move.

Without proper equipment and experience, moving a piano can be a serious hazard. Attempting to do it alone increases the risk of damage to the instrument, your property, and—most importantly—your safety.

How to Move a Piano the Right Way

If you’re considering moving a piano yourself, here’s what you need:

Essential Equipment

  • Moving Straps – Help distribute weight evenly and prevent shifting.
  • Work Gloves – Provide a better grip and protect hands.
  • Furniture Dolly – Critical for moving upright pianos.
  • Moving Blankets – Prevent scratches and internal damage.
  • A Sturdy Ramp – Essential for safe loading and unloading.
  • A Team of Helpers – Never attempt to move a piano alone!

Moving an Upright Piano

  • Measure doorways and hallways – Ensure enough clearance before moving.
  • Secure the keyboard lid – Prevents it from swinging open during transport.
  • Wrap the piano – Use thick blankets and secure them with straps.
  • Use a dolly and moving straps – Never lift it without support.
  • Navigate carefully – Avoid excessive tilting that could disrupt internal components.
  • Load safely – Use a ramp and secure the piano inside the moving truck.

Moving a Grand or Baby Grand Piano

  • Wrap the body of the piano – Protect the finish with blankets.
  • Remove the legs and pedals – Prevents breakage.
  • Tilt onto a specialized dolly – Never attempt to carry it outright.
  • Use a ramp to load it – Secure it properly inside the truck.
  • Reassemble carefully – Ensure stability before playing.
piano moving company

After the move, let your piano sit for two to three weeks before tuning. Pianos are sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity, which can affect their sound.

Why You Should Hire Professional Piano Movers

Even with the best preparation, moving a piano is a job best left to the pros. Here’s why:

  • Avoid Injury – Moving a piano incorrectly can result in serious injuries.
  • Protect Your Piano – A misstep can throw it out of tune or damage its fragile internal components.
  • The Right Equipment – Professional movers have specialized dollies, straps, and ramps.
  • Prevent Costly Mistakes – Repairing a damaged piano can cost thousands.

Moving a piano in NYC? Don’t take the risk—let Movers Not Shakers handle it for you! As experienced piano movers in New York City, we use professional techniques and equipment to ensure your instrument arrives safely at its destination. Whether you’re relocating within the city or need a piano moved to a new home, we provide a stress-free, eco-friendly moving experience. Call us today for a quote! Visit us to book your piano move in NYC now.