When you decide to move to a new home or state, the packing and moving procedure can be challenging, especially if you’re transferring several heavy belongings, such as a piano.
Whether it’s a short or long-distance relocation, moving a large musical instrument will certainly present difficulties. Here are some of the must-know dos and don’ts for a smooth and successful move.
What Are The Dos Of Moving Your Piano?
As a heavy object, a piano requires special care if you plan to move one soon. Here are some things to remember when moving your piano.
1. Do Understand Your Instrument Completely
A piano is one of the largest and most sophisticated mechanical machines you’ll ever own. Most models contain thousands of moveable pieces as well as strings. Transporting a piano necessitates extraordinary caution and meticulous attention to detail. Consider hiring a professional Bay area movers to ensure your piano is safely and efficiently moved, depending on the type of piano you have.
2. Do Move Other Household Items And Furniture
It’s advisable to move any furniture or devices out of the way if you opt to employ professional movers. It’ll provide a clear passage for your piano from your home to the moving truck. A ramp is essential if the piano is on the second floor and you need to move it up or down the stairs safely.
3. Do Make Sure Your Piano Is Secure
Be ready with the right packing materials before the big day. Wrap your piano in a non-slip blankets and fasten it with moving straps to avoid damage.
You must secure the piano after it has been loaded onto the moving truck. If you hire movers, they handle the task on your behalf. Keep in mind that any movement during transportation can cause external and internal damage to your piano.
If you have a grand piano, it’d be best to remove the legs of the piano first so they won’t break during transport. It’ll be possible to fit the piano in a vertical position, especially when moving through doorways and hallways if you remove the legs.
4. Do Tune Your Piano Upon Arriving At Its New Location
Consider having your piano tuned professionally once it arrives at its new home. Although most moves will proceed smoothly, the atmospheric pressure and humidity variances can cause your instrument to detune. It’s recommended to tune your piano at least four times during the first year after you’ve settled in and then one or two times a year after it’s acclimatized.
What Are The Don’ts Of Moving Your Piano?
Once you’re familiar with the do’s when moving your piano, you should also know what to avoid.
1. Don’t Underestimate The Size And Weight Of The Piano
When it comes to moving a piano, one of the most common mistakes is underestimating its size and weight.
An upright piano can weigh up to 800 pounds, while a smaller model can weigh less. The weight of your piano will influence the complexity and cost of the moving process, so taking accurate measurements is critical. It’s best to delegate the task to professional movers, regardless of the piano you have.
2. Don’t Move The Piano Without The Right Tools
If you’re going to relocate any upright piano yourself, you need to invest in the right moving equipment. You can make the move and transport easier to manage if you have the right tools or equipment, such as straps, moving blankets, and dollies, to name a few.
3. Don’t Count On The Casters Of The Piano
Most upright and grand pianos are equipped with casters that allow easy movement. On the other hand, the casters are designed for short-distance movement rather than long distances.
4. Don’t Forget About The Piano’s Lid
Before transporting your piano, make sure the lid is tightly secured. In general, these lids can be heavy and, if not properly secured during transit, might alter the balance of your piano.
If the lid isn’t secure, it’s likely to bounce open and close when moving over bumps on the road. If this happens frequently, the ivory keys on the piano may be damaged. Some models come with locking lids, while others don’t. Make use of the one that comes with your piano. Aside from securing the lid, you should also wrap and cushion it to prevent damage.
Final Thoughts
When you’re going to move a piano, whether you have an upright or grand model, it requires knowledge about several important considerations. If you’re not careful enough, you or your piano might end up with damage or injuries. If you want to relocate your piano properly, avoid rushing through the process, and knowing about the do’s and don’ts will ensure a successful move.
