How To Move A Piano

Piano Moves

Illustration of two movers in uniforms carrying a piano.
Related Articles

Moving a Piano: Why It's Best Left to the Pros and How to Do It Yourself

We all love to save money, and with the rise of do-it-yourself social media accounts, learning how to save money by taking on seemingly tough tasks ourselves is easier than ever. Often, through trial and error, we'll learn a lot, have a reasonably good time, and ultimately save some money - even if we aren't saving as much time.

At Two Small Men, we commend this spirit. And most of the time, we agree that there's a lot that individuals can do on their own to save money when they're getting ready to move. In fact, we offer all kinds of money-saving tips on our website.

However, when it comes to pianos and other expensive, delicate items, we strongly recommend using professional movers to help. Professional moving companies have a ton of experience moving pianos, and they'll have the gear needed to safely transport everything to your new location. In fact, it's not unusual to see moving companies hired specifically to act as piano movers because of just how delicate pianos are. Did you know that the modern grand piano has over 10,000 moving parts? That calls for precise care and movement from Point A to Point B.

Why You Should Consider Professional Piano Movers

  • Experience and Expertise:

    Professional movers have the skills and knowledge to handle pianos of all sizes.

  • Proper Equipment:

    Specialized equipment ensures the piano is moved safely.

  • Insurance:

    Professional moving companies offer insurance to cover any potential damages.

Still Want to Move Your Piano Yourself? Here's How

While we strongly recommend that you hire professional movers to move your piano, if you're certain you want to risk moving it yourself, here are the items you'll need and the steps you'll have to take:

Items You'll Need:

  • Stretch wrap

  • Moving blankets/pads

  • Four-wheel dolly/piano dolly

  • Ratchet straps

How to Move the Piano:

  • Wrap the Piano:

    Using stretch wrap, secure your moving blankets to the piano's top and sides.

  • Lift Onto the Dolly:

    Lift the piano while a second person slides the dolly underneath it.

  • Secure the Piano:

    Using a ratchet strap, secure the piano to the dolly. The strap should be placed above the keyboard to avoid damage.

  • Move Out of the House:

    Begin moving the piano out of the house. You’ll be able to wheel the piano out but will have to lift it when moving it up or down stairs. Remember, at no point should it come in contact with the stairs.

  • Load onto the Truck:

    Safely push the piano up the ramp into your truck.

  • Secure in the Truck:

    Strap the piano to the truck wall and ensure that no other items are loaded next to it.

Tips for DIY Piano Moving:

  • Team Effort:

    We recommend three people for this task because you'll want the extra support and security of a "spotter" on hand and to help you navigate any narrow corridors or stairs. An extra set of eyes and hands will help immensely if you decide to move your piano on your own.

  • Plan Your Route:

    Ensure you have a clear path from the piano's current location to the moving truck.

  • Take Your Time:

    Rushing increases the risk of damage to the piano or injury to yourself.

By following these steps, you can attempt to move your piano safely. However, remember that hiring professional movers like Two Small Men with Big Hearts can save you time, stress, and potential damage to your valuable instrument.


If, however, you choose not to take on the risk of moving your piano (and we wouldn't blame you), why not reach out to Two Small Men for a quote?

Piano Moves

Published on: 2/19/2021

Updated on: 7/17/2024