The Ultimate Moving And Storage Guide

What To Expect During A Piano Move

by Gail Wheeler

Are you a piano owner with plans to relocate? If so, you need to take special considerations when it comes to moving your piano. Pianos are heavy instruments, and attempting to move them on your own could result in you injuring yourself.

There is also a possibility that you may damage the piano due to not having the correct equipment to lower or raise it during a move. Keep in mind that moving a piano safely is quite different than simply moving a piano. Movers, such as Redondo Van & Storage, that specialize in piano moves will know the appropriate steps to take to protect their workers and your prized piano. 

Correct Method of Moving

Moving companies that offer piano moves will know that the correct way to move pianos is highly dependent upon the type of piano their customers own. For example, upright pianos do not have to be dismantled, but grand and concert pianos need will need to be dismantled prior to moving. This is due to the differences in construction.

Even if dismantling is not required, the piano keys and inner parts will need to be protected prior to the move. Blankets, boards, straps and rails are often used to keep the parts of these pianos stabilized. If parts do require dismantling, the parts are wrapped after they are dismantled to protect them during the move. 

Correct Wrapping Technique

If your piano move is a local move, then you may not have the moisture concerns that people who plan to move their pianos longer distances will have. However, if the piano will be moved to a storage location, the wrapping technique will be equally important. Moisture may cause the exterior of the piano to warp, and proper ventilation is necessary to prevent this occurrence. Wrapping is also important to prevent scuff marks and scratching. 

Storage Considerations

If you do not have immediate plans to unpack the piano, you need to decide how you will store it. You may have a room to put it in, but you need to ensure that your mover knows in advance the the piano will be stored and not unpacked. This will allow them to take the appropriate steps during packing. 

You will need to be aware of temperature in the area you store your piano due to potential moisture issues. This is why some people opt to choose a storage facility that is climate controlled to store their pianos. 

Piano Delivery and Set-Up

If your plans are to have your piano delivered and set-up, this also needs to be communicated. Your mover may charge additional fees for unloading and setting up the piano, or it may be included in the total cost of the piano move. Keep in mind that your piano will likely require tuning after a move, and some movers can perform this task for you if you allow them to set-up the piano. 

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