A grand piano needs a handling plan that protects both the instrument and the people moving it. When comparing piano movers in New Jersey, share the make, model, dimensions, and access details at both properties. These piano moving tips explain what to discuss with the team before moving day; they are not a substitute for trained handling.
Choose a professional piano moving company
Having interstate movers NJ on your side when you are relocating can make all the difference. The experts who know exactly what they are doing will pack a grand piano for relocation in no time, and move it without causing any harm to it. Which someone without any moving experience can’t do. Grand pianos are huge instruments, that are at the same time extremely delicate, with many potentially breakable parts. It is very heavy, and you will need assistance. If you don’t hire movers, that burden will fall on the shoulders of your friends and family. And it’s never fun begging loved ones to help you move. Of course, even if you find eager helpers, there is still the question of safety. You will have to have a maximum concentration in order when avoiding the moving injuries. They are very common, and one wrong step is separating you from the trip to the hospital. A professional team can reduce handling risks, but no move is risk-free. The safest way to move and pack a grand piano for relocation is this one. It will increase your moving budget, but it is worth every penny. It is certainly cheaper then repairs to your grand piano in case of the damages.
While it doesn’t seem that way, pianos are very delicate.
Determine the type of your grand piano
Before requesting a piano mover quote, identify the instrument’s make, model, and dimensions. Piano moving specialists also need photographs of stairs, turns, doorways, and the intended placement. Use the manufacturer’s specifications rather than relying on a category name alone.
- Small Grand – under 4½’ to 5’
- Baby Grand – 5’ to 5’5”
- Medium Grand -5’6” to 5’9”
- Living Room Grand – 5’10”
- Professional Grand – 6′
- Drawing Room Grand – 6’4″
- Parlour Grand – 6’8″
- Semi Concert Grand – 7’4″
- Concert Grand – 8′ 11′ and larger
The most common types that of grand pianos people are keeping in their homes are the medium and living room grand, so this guide will focus on these categories.
Steps to properly pack a grand piano for relocation
Ask piano moving companies how they will protect the finish, support the instrument, and handle any required disassembly. The steps below should be assessed and carried out by trained professionals, using suitable equipment and the instrument’s requirements. Discuss valuation coverage and any exclusions before the move; do not assume a general policy covers every type of damage.
Step 1 – Remove the piano lid
By removing the screws and the hinges on its longest side with a screwdriver, you will be able to detach the lid. Put all the screws in a plastic bag for safekeeping. Label the bag so you can re-assemble the piano lid after the relocation.
Step 2- Wrap the lid with pads
Once the lid is loose, take it off and wrap in 2 or 3 moving pads. The pads will prevent scratches or damages on the lid during the move. Wood needs to be fully covered by the pads. Wrap the pads with layers of duck tape to keep it in place. If you are moving on the budget, use regular blankets instead of the moving pads.
Step 3 to properly pack a grand piano for relocation – Removing the piano’s lyre
Unscrew the lyre from the underside of the body of the piano and set the lyre aside for now. Keep all the screws and other removable small pieces in a plastic bag with a proper label.
Step 4 – Set the piano onto its side
In order to properly pack a grand piano for relocation, you have to purchase the piano board. It is a large, flat wooden surface build to hold the side of a piano. Place a piano board to the left of the piano body. You and your helper pick up the instrument and tilt it towards its long, flat side. Gently set this side on top of the piano board. Be very careful, since any wrong movement can cause damages to the piano.
Step 5 – Wrap the body of the piano
Place moving pads over and around the body of the grand piano. There’s no need for duck tape since the straps will keep them in place. Speaking of straps, wrap at least 2 or 3 heavy-duty buckle straps around the body of the piano. The straps will prevent pads from shifting during the move and consequently keep the piano steady.
Step 6 to properly pack a grand piano for relocation – Remove and pack the piano legs
Once the piano is firmly strapped onto the piano board, use a screwdriver or an Allen wrench to remove the screws and free the legs. Wrap the piano legs in regular or moving blankets. Wrap each and pedal individually and make sure that there isn’t any exposed wood. Secure the blanket in place using a generous amount of packing tape.
Remove legs and pedals carefully.
Planning with long-distance piano movers
Long-distance piano movers need to coordinate loading, transport, access, and final placement as one plan. If your dates do not align, ask about piano moving and storage arrangements before booking. Confirm the storage environment, handling responsibilities, and delivery window in writing so the instrument’s needs remain clear throughout the move.
Frequently asked questions
How do I safely pack and move a piano without damaging it?
First measure the piano, doorways, hallways, stairs, and vehicle route. Lock or secure the keyboard lid, cover the instrument with thick moving pads, and use stretch wrap or straps without placing adhesive tape on the finish. A grand piano should be placed on a piano board, with legs and pedals removed and wrapped only by someone who knows the instrument. Protect floors, keep the piano upright and balanced, never lift it by its legs, and secure it against movement inside the truck. Because a piano is extremely heavy and its internal parts are delicate, stairs, tight turns, and grand pianos are safest in the hands of trained piano movers. Allow it to acclimate after delivery before arranging tuning.
