Pianos are expensive instruments that are often passed down through generations. These heirlooms require careful attention, especially when being relocated. Whether the piano is brand new or has some history to it, it’s likely valuable, making it one of the most challenging items to transport during a move. One bad drop and a component important to the instrument could easily break. While it’s possible to repair a piano, they don’t always sound quite the same afterward. That’s why it’s essential to have the move done correctly in the first place, to minimize the risk of damage. Here are a few tips to successfully move a piano.
The first thing to consider when planning on moving a piano is who is doing the packing and moving. It’s typically better to hire professionals than to do the job yourself, or to count on friends to help you relocate. A moving team is likely to have the right equipment, team size, and expertise that you need to successfully move a large and sensitive article, like a piano.
Most pianos are over 1,000 pounds, making them nearly impossible to move without the help of a team. Once you’ve lifted it, keep in mind that you’ll still have to maneuver this object onto a vehicle. It’s not impossible, but without the right materials and tools, it’s likely that it’ll be difficult and end up damaging the wood or mechanisms inside.
Another aspect to consider is packaging the piano for transport. The delicate keys, inner machinery, and the polished wood all need to be protected. If something falls on top of it during the move, it could blemish the frame or even break the keys. If the piano isn’t correctly secured with a piano board (or piano skid board), one wrong pothole could end up mangling the piano’s machinery. Cover the rest of the keyboard with thick towels to shield it from scratches and minor damage along the way. Lastly, a dolly is imperative in this process.
In some cases, it may be prudent to dismantle the piano if possible. This can make the clavichord easier to carry and protect those smaller parts throughout the extensive moving process. Of course, that means either you will have to put it together and tune it or have an expert do it for you.
Hiring movers are your best bet if you have to move a piano or another delicate item. Professional haulers understand how to deal with sensitive objects, so they’ll know how to package your instrument correctly. They’ll also have all the right tools and materials, so you don’t have to purchase those just for the event. When you hire a moving company, an entire team will be there to safely secure and move your grand piano to your new home.
At Q’s Moving Corp., our trained team of professionals move your piano safely to its new location. We have provided award-winning service to residents in the Queens, Long Island, Westchester and 5 boroughs areas for three generations. Our company is fully licensed and insured, and we are ready to move you 24 hours per day, seven days per week! Contact us online for a free quote or give us a call at 1-888-951-MOVE.
Q’s Moving is a family owned and operated business with branches in both New York and New Jersey. Spanning over 3 generations, we’ve helped countless families relocate throughout the tristate area and beyond! We are committed to caring for our customers just as we’d care for our own loved ones because when you move with Q’s, you’re moving with family.
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