How Many Movers Do You Need To Move a Piano?

A piano is a highly delicate musical instrument. Any disruption to its position requires additional tuning. When it comes to moving, the process is complicated and time-consuming. Relocating a piano requires great care and professionalism.

Check out this site for piano movers who are experienced professionals, possessing the necessary skills and equipment to handle the intricate task of relocating pianos safely and efficiently. Their specialized expertise is essential for navigating the challenges that come with moving these delicate and often substantial instruments. By offering professional piano moving services, individuals can access a wealth of knowledge and resources tailored specifically to the unique requirements of piano transportation.

A small mistake made when moving this instrument could result in damage, which can reduce its value substantially. Meanwhile, the lack of experience with moving such large and heavy items could lead to further damages and unexpected expenses.

Let’s take a closer look at the nuances of moving a piano and how many people you need to do it.

Weight and Shape

The size, shape, and weight of the piano vary depending on its type. The average weight is about 750 pounds. That’s the weight of six average adults.

The smallest vertical piano is a Spinet piano. It’s usually about three feet tall and weighs around 200 to 400 lbs. While this piano may be the easiest to move, it still requires a special approach.

The largest piano is a concert grand piano. These can weigh up to 1,200 pounds and be up to 9 feet long.

Lifting and carrying such weight without special equipment is out of the question. Unlike a small move, you can’t arrange to move a piano by simply inviting a couple of friends. You may need an entire team of helpers to get the job done. Ideally, you should hire professional piano movers to ensure safety.

Besides being extremely heavy, pianos are irregularly shaped. This makes it even harder to transport them without any damage especially if you need to climb stairs or walk through narrow doorways.

Special Equipment

Before figuring out how many people you need to move a piano, you have to make sure you have the right equipment.

• For an upright piano – you will need a dolly
• For a grand piano – you will need a piano skid

Besides this equipment, you need to buy durable straps for strapping the piano to the dolly or a skid. Meanwhile, you have to invest in high-quality padding to prevent damage in case the piano touches walls or furniture.

If you are planning to move the piano on your own, find out if you can rent the equipment. Buying it can be costly. However, you would still need to consider purchasing straps and blankets. Average blankets that you have at home may not be thick enough to protect your piano.

Assistants

If you are moving a small piano, you need at least four people for the job. Each side of the piano must be controlled by one mover. Additionally, you need people to control the route and guide the movers so they don’t miss problematic areas like sharp corners or steep stairs.

Ideally, your assistants should have at least some experience with moving pianos. They should also be in good physical shape. Since pianos are heavy, take the time to teach your friends how to lift heavy items. Otherwise, they may hurt their backs.

Ideally, you should hire professional movers to move your piano. These specialists have experience moving heavy and irregularly shaped items. The company can also provide insurance for your instrument.

Piano Moving Tips

These piano moving tips can help you get the job done if you decide to arrange a DIY move.

• Make sure to wrap the entire piano in thick blankets to prevent damage
• Purchase or rent highly durable straps made specifically for moving heavy items.
• Rent a high-quality piano dolly or skid in order to simplify the move.
• Close the keyboard lid tightly to prevent it from opening during the move.
• Don’t ever lift the piano by its legs since they can easily break off.
• Measure all the areas you are planning to carry the piano through. Get furniture out of the way to prevent damage

Consider buying piano insurance. This can help you get reimbursed in case something goes wrong during the move.

The Takeaway

Moving a piano is not an easy process. To make sure your musical instrument arrives at its destination in top shape, you need to make the right preparations. If you are planning a DIY move, ask at least four people to help. The more assistants you have, the easier the move will be.