Moving a piano is not an easy task. Even if you have a big truck or can rent one and have many friends helping, such instruments normally require the help of professionals. We’ve heard stories of clients who attempted to move pianos on their own and ended up regretting it greatly. Chipped corners, destroyed pedals, lost wheels, and even complete disassembly of the harmonic box are horror-like testimonials we’ve heard.
Piano Moving is a Niche Industry
Not only some pianos are huge and heavy, for instance grand pianos, but even upward pianos can be very fragile to move and may require proper handling expertise. As a matter of fact, moving pianos is a niche in the moving industry so it’s not uncommon to find moving companies that only specialize on moving these amazing instruments.
Piano Moving DIY?
Perhaps it’s ok to gather some friends or family members to move a donated detuned piano that you found on Craigslist for free. However, some of those pianos are masterpieces that with some repair and tune up can sound and look great. I remember my piano instructor used to have an old German piano and when I asked him why he did not get a new one he said “pianos, like wine, get better with time”. I don’t know if that’s true, but some of these old pianos also have emotional value (e.g.: inheritance from family members, special editions, etc.), and if you’re lucky you may even end up finding some hidden jewel out there.
Important Considerations When Moving a Piano
When considering the pros and cons of hiring professional piano movers try to really think from an objective perspective. Does your instrument is worthy to you or has some sentimental value? Do you have all the gear and manpower required for such a task? How will you react should the instrument is damaged in the process? Those are just a few questions to consider, but of course there could be way more to analyze.
You will be able to find lots of information and how to videos on the Internet about proper piano handling, packing and moving. However, let me tell you that from our own experience, this task is usually way more difficult than it looks and often ends up with more challenges than expected. The bottom line is that moving a piano can be a complex procedure but if you have all the necessary tools and people to do it, it can be done without professional help. However, it’s almost guaranteed that it will give you a headache and perhaps some other greater issues like back pain/injury.
If hiring a professional piano moving company is within your budget rather focus on finding the right company that can offer you a good rate but most importantly, that has proven experience moving pianos. Be aware, though, that nowadays is common to see ads of guys with trucks that can take any job without really having the necessary expertise. Hiring professional piano movers to move your precious instrument can really help you get rid of a huge weight (literally), at a very low cost when considering all the potential problems it could cause.
Also, you may want to determine what are the best or easiest ways to move your piano out of the home into the new one, considering parking, door frame sizes, distance, etc.
If you have additional questions on how to move your piano, feel free to contact us and we will be glad to provide you with further information.