How to move a piano successfully

1. How do I move a piano?

The sounds of a piano convey a sense of lightness. However, the instrument itself is a real heavyweight. A piano weighs at least 170 kg. Grand pianos weigh at least 270 kg, and large concert grand pianos easily weigh over 500 kg.

The heavy weight requires special lifting techniques during transport. That’s why it’s usually worthwhile to hire a professional piano mover. Professionals possess the necessary expertise and suitable aids such as moving straps, protective material, heavy-duty trolleys and special vehicles.

2. What information does a piano mover need?

First, the moving company prepares a free, no-obligation quote. A good idea is to arrange for the movers to come and visit the premises. They can then better assess the physical space constraints, identify possible transport difficulties and adapt their quote accordingly.

If you agree with the terms and conditions, you can begin planning your move with the company. A piano mover needs the following information from you in advance:

• What are the dimensions of your piano?

• When do you want the move to take place?

• On which floor is the piano located?

• How much space does your stairwell provide?

• Can the van park outside the front door?

• What is your old and new address?

3. What is the process for moving a piano?

Is your piano move imminent? Make sure that the access roads are freely accessible so that the van can reach your home. Depending on the parking situation, it is worth arranging temporary no-parking signs. Make sure there are no objects in the building itself that could obstruct the path and make the move more difficult.

Check with the moving company whether you need to take any further precautions. As a rule, the movers will take care of everything else.

This is how it works:

1. Disassemble the piano (if necessary)

2. Protect the piano (wool blanket, protective cover or synthetic protective materials)

3. Move the piano to the vehicle

4. Transport the piano to the destination

5. Use aids such as lifting platforms where necessary

6. Position the piano at the new location

4. How much does it cost to move a piano?

Professional movers charge around 350 to 600 francs for moving a piano. The price is determined by the distance and access to the pick-up location and destination.

This is how the price is broken down: the basic fee incl. protective materials, aids and assembly work amounts to around 200 to 350 francs. If the instrument has to be moved to a higher floor via stairs, this costs around 35 to 60 francs per floor. The transport costs are usually about 2 to 4 francs per kilometre.

5. What insurance do I need for my piano?

Your upright or grand piano is usually covered by your piano mover’s business liability insurance. Make sure you thoroughly understand what damage this policy covers. Ask the transport company to confirm the condition of the instrument in writing before and after the move.

Would you prefer to move the piano yourself? To ensure an adequate level of financial protection, any helpers involved will require personal liability insurance. To cover any damage you may cause yourself, you can take out valuables insurance or accidental damage cover. However, be aware: not all damage to the instrument is covered. Take note of each insurer’s policy conditions.

6. Where is the right location for a piano?

It is crucial to choose the right location to preserve the value and sound of your piano. It is important for the climatic conditions to be as stable as possible. The room temperature should be uniform, and a constant humidity of between 50% and 60% should be maintained.

Do not place the piano directly against a wall. Leave a distance of at least 15 cm between the piano body and the wall. This allows the air in the room to circulate and reach the back of the instrument.

Radiators are a particular source of danger for your piano. Heat causes air to dry out, which may cause cracks in the soundboard and pinblock. It is therefore important not to place the instrument near radiators. Special protective carpets and mats are available for buildings with underfloor heating.

7. When do I have to tune the piano?

An upright or grand piano needs to get used to its new surroundings after moving. Experts refer to this process as acclimatization. During this phase, a piano usually goes badly out of tune.

After two to three weeks you can tune the instrument. However, in the first year after the move, it will still go out of tune quite quickly. Therefore, it is advisable to use a piano tuning service a little more often during this time.

8. Where can I get a quote for moving a piano?

Planning a move and need to transport your piano? Find a suitable company.