Moving a piano isn’t like moving just any piece of furniture. These instruments are heavy, fragile, and valuable, both emotionally and financially. A small misstep can lead to broken keys, scratched surfaces, or worse, harm to the movers themselves. Whether it’s a grand piano taking up a corner of the living room or a smaller upright version passed down through your family, getting it from one place to another takes more than sheer strength.
Especially in a city like Orlando, with its mix of homes, condos, and tight doorways, pulling off a safe piano move can be tricky. That’s why proper planning, the right equipment, and skilled help make such a difference. Getting your piano to your new spot without a scratch starts with understanding what kind of work and prep it really takes.
Preparing For The Move
Pianos come in many shapes and sizes, and it’s easy to underestimate just how different they can be. The first step in any safe piano move is to understand the specific type of piano you’re working with. Is it an upright or a baby grand? Some weigh as little as a few hundred pounds, others tip the scale much further. Knowing what you’re dealing with helps you decide how many people will need to lift, how to protect the piano, and what kind of path will be needed.
Another important move is to check the entry and exit pathways beforehand. Measure doorways, hallways, and staircases that the piano must pass through. If there are tight turns or narrow entrances, you’ll need to plan extra support or a different strategy to avoid scratches, dropped pieces, or jammed equipment. Orlando’s summer months also bring humidity, so be mindful of slippery outdoor surfaces like patios and driveways if you’re moving house in July.
Before lifting even begins, be sure to have the right packing supplies ready. Here’s a list of basic items you’ll want:
– Heavy-duty moving blankets to wrap the body of the piano
– Strong packing tape or straps to hold the blankets in place
– Piano board or skid board for grand pianos
– Plastic wrap to protect the finish from moisture
– Work gloves to improve grip and protect hands
Spending the time upfront to plan this out lowers the chance of damage. This type of prep might look like extra effort, but skipping steps here often leads to major headaches later on.
Safe Lifting And Handling Techniques
Once everything is packed and the route is clear, the next challenge is getting the piano safely off the ground and into the moving truck. Proper lifting isn’t just about strength. It’s about teamwork and good communication. Everyone involved needs to know their role and stick to a clear plan through every phase of the move.
Try to avoid any sudden movements. Keep the piano balanced at all times and make sure weight is shared evenly. Lifting from the base using your legs, not your back, reduces the chance of injury. And remember, never lift a piano by its legs or pedals. These parts aren’t meant to handle weight and can break easily.
Helpful tools also go a long way when it comes to avoiding strain or mistakes. Use dollies with rubber wheels, piano-specific straps, and a lifting belt if needed. If you’re using a skid board, especially for a grand piano, secure the instrument tightly to the board before attempting to move it. That extra stability can make a big difference, especially when dealing with tight corners or ramps.
One example we’ve seen time and again is underestimating staircases. Even two or three steps can cause trouble if the team isn’t synced up properly. Assign someone to lead, someone to spot from behind, and others to support from the sides. Try a short lift-and-check step whenever balance is uncertain. It saves both the piano and your peace of mind.
Securing The Piano During Transport
Transporting your piano from one location to another involves more than just lifting it into the moving truck. The journey itself can pose risks if the piano isn’t secured properly. Begin by wrapping and padding your piano thoroughly. Use heavy-duty moving blankets to cover the instrument, focusing on providing added protection around its corners and edges. Secure these blankets in place with sturdy moving tape or straps, making sure they won’t shift during transit.
When ready to move onto the truck, use a piano board or skid board made for this job. With the proper equipment, guiding your piano onto the board becomes a smoother job, reducing the risk of tipping or scraping. Have one person guide one side and another manage the opposite end, keeping the piano balanced at all times.
Once on board, choose the best location in the moving truck. Placing the piano along a wall on the truck floor is ideal, helping prevent it from rolling or shifting during travel. Use straps or cords to fasten the piano in place, anchoring it securely. Making sure the piano stays put during the drive is just as important as wrapping it properly at the start.
With everything locked down, you’ll feel more confident that your instrument will arrive in one piece without any surprises.
Unloading And Placement At The New Location
Bringing your piano into its new home takes just as much care as getting it onto the truck. Start by having the same team handle this final stage of the move. Carefully release any straps used during transport before continuing.
Use your skid board or piano board again to roll the piano off the truck slowly. Keep it level and upright. As you move toward the new space, double-check all doorways and paths. Make sure floors are covered with protective pads if needed to prevent scratches.
Place the piano in its chosen location, then do a full walkthrough around the instrument. Look for any signs of nicks or issues that might have occurred during the move. It’s better to catch these early than wait until it’s time to play. Plan ahead to get the piano retuned. Moving and changes in environment can throw off its balance of sound, so scheduling a tuning session will help get your piano back to performing its best.
Safety Starts With The Right Help
Taking every precaution can make moving a piano much smoother and stress-free. Whether you’re moving across town or setting up in a different part of Orlando, these steps help protect your piano and everyone involved. Moving such a heavy and delicate object doesn’t have to be overwhelming when handled the right way. With the right planning, tools, and know-how, your piano can land safely in its new home.
For a smooth piano move in Orlando that keeps your instrument safe and sound, trust the professionals to handle every detail. Our team at Jochas Moving and Delivery is ready to tackle the challenges of transporting delicate items like your piano. To ensure your next move goes off without a hitch, count on our experienced piano movers in Orlando to get the job done right.