It is highly recommended that you hire professional movers to move your piano. Moving a piano by yourself is not recommended (hospital bills can cost way more than piano movers), but there are certain situations where you may need to move your piano without the professional assistance from a moving company. If that is the case read on to find out how to move a piano without piano movers.

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How to Move a Piano: A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Guide
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How to Move a Piano: A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Guide

Moving a piano can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools, preparations, and team of helpers, it can be done safely and efficiently. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to successfully move your piano without the help of professional movers. Whether you have an upright or a grand piano, follow these instructions to ensure a smooth transition to your new home.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Equipment

To minimize risk during your move, it’s crucial to equip yourself with the right tools and supplies. Here’s what you’ll need:

Shoulder Dolly or Piano Skid: Utilizing a Shoulder Dolly makes the process considerably easier. Purchase them online for under $50. For grand pianos, consider getting two sets. If you prefer a piano board, they can be found for $200-$300.
Additional Supplies:
- Ratchet straps
- Tape measure
- Moving pads
- Tape or shrink wrap
- Plastic zip lock bags for loose hardware
- Basic tool kit for disassembly of pedals and legs
- A 4-wheel furniture dolly (for piano skid use)
Rental Truck with Lift Gate: Renting a truck equipped with a lift gate simplifies the process of lifting the piano onto the vehicle. This step is vital to avoid injury or damage.

Step 2: Assemble a Team

Recruit a team of three to four physically capable helpers. For an upright piano, it’s beneficial to have one person at each end along with at least one additional spotter for stability. When dealing with a grand piano, a minimum of four people is essential for optimal support and balance.

Step 3: Measure and Plan

Before moving, measure your piano and assess the route to the moving truck. Ensure that doorways, hallways, staircases, or any tight spaces have sufficient clearance. If necessary, remove doors to facilitate movement.

Clear any objects obstructing your planned path, and make sure that children and pets are safely away from the work area to avoid accidents.

Step 4: Prepare Your Moving Environment

It’s imperative to protect your floors, especially if you’re using the 4-wheel dolly. The piano’s weight can easily damage hardwood surfaces, so lay down cardboard, rugs, doormats, or ram board to create a protective pathway.

Step 5: Disassemble Removable Parts

Carefully remove any detachable pieces of your piano. This commonly includes the lid, lip prop, music rack, and any decorative pieces. For a grand piano, you’ll also need to detach the legs.

Removing Grand Piano Legs:

To remove the legs of a grand piano, gently tilt the body onto its side. This method requires careful handling, with someone assigned to help support the weight, notably the back leg, while you unscrew the others. Having visual references, such as recommended videos, can guide you through this process effectively.

Step 6: Document the Assembly

A useful tip for reassembling your piano later is to take pictures or label where each piece and leg belongs. This precaution ensures that you will know exactly how to put each component back together at your new location.

Step 7: Wrap the Piano and Its Parts

Each leg and removed component should be wrapped in moving pads and secured with tape or shrink wrap. Place all loose hardware in a zip lock bag, attaching it to one of the legs to prevent it from being misplaced.

Wrapping the Piano Base:

For upright pianos, you can move them upright without a piano skid. However, the base of a grand piano must be moved while standing on its long edge and requires a skid. Wrap the entire piano in moving pads and secure it with tape or shrink wrap. If using a piano skid, gently lift each side of the piano and slide the skid underneath. Strap the piano securely to the skid using ratchet straps for added security.

Step 8: Moving the Piano

Using the Shoulder Dolly:

When employing a Shoulder Dolly, lift the edges of the piano to position the strap beneath the center. Take the time to balance the piano by ensuring the strap is correctly centered. For a grand piano, use two Shoulder Dolly straps – one lengthwise and another across the middle.

Using the 4-Wheel Dolly and Skid:

For this method, have your team lift one end of the piano carefully so that another helper can slide the furniture dolly underneath. Balancing the dolly placement is critical to evenly distribute the weight.

Step 9: Transporting the Piano

Once ready, move slowly as a group along the predetermined route, paying special attention during narrow doorways or tight spaces. Each teammate should support the piano from the sides to maintain stability.

Step 10: Loading the Piano onto the Truck

If using a truck with a lift gate, simply place the piano on the lift and press the button. However, if a lift isn’t an option, enlist two helpers to carry the piano up the ramp, while two others walk on either side for balance and support. Take special care during this phase as it can be particularly hazardous.

Step 11: Secure the Piano in the Truck

Position the piano at the back of the truck against a wall for optimum stability. Secure it using bungees, rope, or ratchet straps, ensuring it is sandwiched between other sturdy items to prevent movement during transport.

Step 12: Unload, Move, and Reassemble

Once at your new location, plan your unloading route and remove any obstacles, once again protecting the floors. Carefully adjust your straps as needed while moving the piano along.

After successfully moving the piano, unwrap it and carefully reattach the legs and any other components, supporting the weight as you do so. Testing for stability is key, and don’t forget to have the piano tuned post-move for optimal performance.

Conclusion

Relocating a piano takes time, precision, and teamwork, but by following this comprehensive guide, you can move your instrument safely and efficiently. Preparation and caution are your best allies in this venture. With a little help and the right equipment, moving a piano doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Happy moving!