Understanding How to Disassemble an Upright Piano for Moving
To quickly answer how to disassemble an upright piano for moving, follow these basic steps:
- Gather necessary tools: Screwdrivers, piano tuning hammer, moving blankets, heavy-duty tape, work gloves.
- Clear and measure the moving path: Ensure there’s enough space to carry piano parts safely.
- Remove external parts: Carefully take off the piano lid, key cover, music desk, and fallboard.
- Detach internal components: Safely remove the action mechanism (keys and hammers) and pedal assembly.
- Wrap and label parts: Protect each component individually with blankets and labels for reassembly.
Disassembling your upright piano might seem daunting at first, but it’s an essential step to ensure a safe and damage-free relocation. With an upright piano typically weighing 500-800 pounds or more, moving it intact—especially through narrow doorways or tight stairways—can be risky and could cause serious injury or costly damage.
But here’s the good news: by carefully taking apart the piano first, you’ll significantly reduce these risks and simplify your move.
I’m Mina Georgalas, owner and president of Bernard Movers, with nearly 30 years of experience helping families and businesses across the country. I’m here to share practical advice from years of successfully guiding clients on how to disassemble an upright piano for moving.
How to disassemble an upright piano for moving vocab to learn:
– how to make a piano moving dolly
– moving companies that move pianos
– moving pianos
Preparing for Disassembly
Before you dive into the details of how to disassemble an upright piano for moving, it’s crucial to pause and thoroughly prepare. Trust me—at Bernard Movers, we’ve learned the hard way (so you don’t have to!) that careful planning can be the difference between a seamless piano relocation and a costly mishap.
Pianos are beautiful instruments, but they’re also large, heavy, and delicate enough to require thoughtful handling. Let’s walk through the preparation process together to set you up for success.
Gathering Necessary Tools
Having the right tools on hand is your first step to safely disassembling your upright piano. You don’t want to find yourself halfway through the process realizing you’re missing something essential!
Begin by ensuring you have both Phillips and flathead screwdrivers of varying sizes—these will help you with all different types of piano screws and fasteners. A piano tuning hammer is useful if you’ll need to release any string tension. Don’t forget a sturdy pair of work gloves to protect your hands from scrapes or injuries.
Since you’ll be moving delicate components, you’ll want plenty of moving blankets or dense cloth padding, along with some heavy-duty tape and stretch wrap to secure everything during transport. Keep plastic bags and labels ready for storing screws and small parts. This will save you time (and headaches) later when it’s time to reassemble.
Depending on your piano model, you may also need a baseboard pry bar to assist with stubborn components. Safety is always a priority, so wear safety glasses during the disassembly. Lastly—but just as important—have a digital camera or smartphone handy to document each step. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!
Even experienced DIY enthusiasts who’ve tackled piano moves before admit that preparation matters. Ashley, a piano owner who documented her DIY piano disassembly process, candidly advises, “We did not know what we were doing, and you should consult a professional before getting into this to avoid injury.” Wise words—especially if it’s your first time!
Preparing Your Space
Before you unscrew a single hinge or lift a single panel, it’s important to prepare your workspace thoughtfully. Start by thoroughly clearing the surrounding area of any obstacles, decorations, valuable items, and potential tripping hazards. You’ll need ample room to move around and safely set aside piano components.
Measure carefully. Take exact dimensions (height, width, depth) of your upright piano and record measurements of all doorways, hallways, stairways, and tight corners it’ll need to steer through. Skipping this step could leave you stuck—literally—when it comes time to move your piano.
Next, lock and secure the keyboard lid with tape or stretch wrap to prevent it from accidentally popping open during the disassembly process. Protect your floors too—lay moving blankets or cardboard beneath the piano to avoid scratches or damage.
Lastly, remember to remove any decorative items or personal belongings still resting on your piano, including framed photos or knick-knacks. It’s amazing what can accidentally fall or get damaged when you’re busy removing piano parts.
Your upright piano will weigh anywhere between 300 to 800 pounds, with the back alone often tipping the scales at about 250. This is definitely not a solo gig! Plan to have at least three to four strong helpers close by on the big day.
Safety Precautions
Safety first—always. While it can be tempting to rush and get your piano move done quickly, it’s critical to slow down and follow proper safety guidelines.
Always wear your protective gear, including work gloves and safety glasses. Don’t underestimate the tension within piano strings—they’re under tremendous pressure and can cause injury if mishandled.
Never tackle piano disassembly alone. Recruit helpers not only for helpful lifting but also as extra sets of eyes, making sure everyone stays safe during the process. Take your time to carefully and deliberately remove each component. Rushing often leads to frustration, mistakes, or worse—injuries.
Document every step thoroughly with plenty of photos and notes. These will be your lifesavers when it’s time for reassembly. And remember, if something feels jammed or stuck, don’t try to force it. As one experienced piano technician wisely cautioned, “I cringe when I see or hear about movers removing parts to make it lighter.” Handle each piece gently, and reach out for professional assistance if you’re ever unsure.
For additional helpful pointers on safely packing and protecting your items, consider checking out our dedicated page on Packing, Loading, and Storage. We’ve got your back every step of the way!
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Disassemble an Upright Piano for Moving
Now that you’ve gathered your tools, cleared your workspace, and put safety first, you’re ready to dive into how to disassemble an upright piano for moving. Before we begin, each piano is a bit different. Take your time, keep a helper close by, and document each step with photos for an easier reassembly.
Removing the Piano Lid and Key Cover for Moving
Let’s start by getting access to the piano’s interior. Begin by opening the key cover—the piece that protects the keys when they’re not in use. Depending on your piano model, the key cover either slides right out or is connected by hinges.
If your piano has a sliding key cover, gently pull it towards you until it’s fully extended, then lift it upward to remove it. If it’s hinged, open it all the way and carefully remove the screws from each hinge. Set the key cover aside in a safe spot, ideally cushioned by a moving blanket.
Next, move onto the piano lid—the large flat cover at the top. Open it carefully and locate the hinges. Usually, you’ll find two to three hinges secured by screws. With your helper holding the lid steady, unscrew these hinges completely. Once detached, lift the lid straight up and off, placing it gently on another moving blanket to avoid scratches.
This is the perfect time to peek inside and rescue any pencils, old sheet music, or small trinkets hiding within. It’s common—and sometimes amusing—to find forgotten treasures inside piano cabinets!
Detaching the Piano Desk and Fallboard
With the lid and key cover safely out of the way, you’re ready to tackle the piano desk (also called the music desk) and the fallboard (the front panel protecting the keys when the piano is closed).
If your piano desk folds, close it first. Look closely to see how it’s attached—usually latches or screws hold it securely on each side. Open or unscrew these carefully, then with help, lift the desk gently upward and away from the piano. Set this aside with your other removed parts.
Now, let’s remove the fallboard. With the desk removed, you’ll typically see screws on each side holding it in place. Carefully unscrew these fasteners. Always double-check if anything feels stuck—sometimes a hidden screw or latch can surprise you. Once everything is loose, lift the fallboard straight up and separate it from the piano cabinet. Again, keep it protected and safely stored together with your labeled parts.
One piano owner humorously recalls, “At first, we couldn’t get the desk off—we’d missed a hidden latch. Lesson learned: always look twice!” Remember: patience now prevents headaches later.
For a visual walkthrough, check out this detailed guide on piano disassembly. Just keep in mind, your goal is partial disassembly for moving, not full dismantling.
Disassembling the Piano Action, Keys, and Pedals for Moving
Now we arrive at the trickiest part of how to disassemble an upright piano for moving—removing the action mechanism (the complex piece with hammers and dampers), the individual keys, and pedal assembly. This step requires gentle handling, careful movements, and a second pair of hands.
First, let’s remove the piano’s action mechanism. Usually, four thumbscrews hold it securely inside the piano. Before unscrewing, check for any pedal rods connected to the action. Gently detach these pedal rods first by unscrewing their connections.
Now, carefully remove each thumbscrew, starting from the outside and moving toward the middle screws. Apply gentle inward pressure as you unscrew, so nothing slips or breaks. Once all screws are removed, slowly pull the entire action forward toward you at a 30-45 degree angle. With a partner’s help, lift it gently out of the piano, holding only the metal mounting rails—never the delicate wooden hammers or felt parts. Place the action mechanism carefully on a flat, padded surface.
If your move requires it, you can remove the individual piano keys next. After lifting the action out, gently lift each key straight up, starting from one end and working methodically. Keep each key labeled in order, or better yet, place them directly into labeled padded boxes or containers. This ensures a smooth reassembly later.
Finally, let’s tackle the pedals and the kickboard (the panel in front of the pedals). Locate the screws beneath the piano cabinet that secure the pedal assembly (also called the lyre). Unscrew them and detach the pedal mechanism gently. If there’s a kickboard attached, loosen its screws and tilt it upward to remove it from the body.
Throughout this step, remember piano expert Brian’s wise words: “Don’t force anything. If it doesn’t move easily, it probably isn’t supposed to yet.” Forcing parts can lead to costly damage—exactly what we’re trying to avoid.
The piano action is both heavy and fragile. As one experienced DIY mover accurately put it, “The action is awkward to handle, surprisingly heavy, and extremely delicate.” Take your time, always have help, and handle all internal components by sturdy metal parts—not felt or wood.
By carefully following these steps, you’re well on your way to safely preparing your piano for relocation. Thorough labeling and gentle handling now will save you headaches later!
If at any point you feel uncertain or overwhelmed, Bernard Movers is always here to help with professional piano moving services—ensuring your beloved instrument reaches its new home safe and sound.
Tips for Handling and Storing Piano Parts Safely
Now that you’ve successfully taken apart your piano, you’re facing a pile of oddly-shaped components that need special care. Let’s talk about how to keep all these pieces safe until you reach your destination.
Labeling and Documentation
The moment you remove a piano part is the perfect time to label it. Trust me on this – what seems obvious today will be a complete mystery in a week!
I always recommend using painter’s tape and a permanent marker to create clear labels for each component. Something as simple as “Top Lid – Front Edge” can save you hours of frustration during reassembly. For those tiny screws and bolts that seem to multiply when you’re not looking, small ziplock bags are your best friends. Label each bag with exactly where those fasteners belong.
“Get a tech to tell you if it is worth more than firewood. They may then point out to you what comes off and how,” advises Ed Foote, highlighting why proper documentation matters, especially for valuable instruments.
Your smartphone is also an invaluable tool here. Take photos before, during, and after removing each component. These visual references will be worth their weight in gold when you’re trying to figure out how everything fits back together. I’ve had clients create simple disassembly logs noting any tricky parts or special considerations – this extra step rarely takes more than a few minutes but can save hours later.
Protective Wrapping
Piano parts need serious protection during transit. Your piano’s beautiful wooden finish can be easily scratched, and delicate internal components can be damaged beyond repair if not properly cushioned.
For large pieces like the piano lid, wrap them completely in moving blankets, securing with tape. Be sure the tape doesn’t touch the wood directly – always fold the blanket edge over first. The music desk and fallboard need similar protection, with special attention to corners and edges.
The action assembly requires extra care – it’s both fragile and the heart of your piano’s functionality. Wrap it in soft, clean materials, making absolutely sure there’s no pressure on the hammers or other delicate mechanisms. For the keys, if you’ve removed them, a sturdy box with dividers works wonderfully. Some movers even use egg cartons for organizing smaller parts!
The pedal assembly might seem sturdy, but those connecting rods can bend easily. Wrap it thoroughly and secure with tape to prevent movement during transport.
Safe Transport
When loading your piano parts for the journey, proper positioning is crucial. Keep the action assembly upright whenever possible – laying it flat can cause the hammers to shift and potentially damage the mechanism.
Never stack heavy items on any piano components, no matter how well-wrapped they seem. Each part should have its own protected space in your moving vehicle. Use straps or bungee cords to secure everything in place, preventing shifting during transport.
The cast iron plate and wooden frame (often called the “harp”) is typically the heaviest part and requires special handling. Make sure it’s well-supported and secured separately from other components.
A professional piano mover once told me, “I wish to add some kind and sensitive phrase but nothing comes to mind,” when discussing DIY piano moving. This humorous but telling comment highlights just how challenging proper piano transport can be!
Temperature and humidity are silent enemies of pianos. Try to keep all components away from extreme conditions. If you must store the parts before reassembly, choose a climate-controlled environment if possible.
Working with Helpers
Moving piano parts is definitely not a solo trip. Having reliable helpers makes all the difference between a smooth process and potential disaster.
Before lifting anything, take a minute to assign specific roles to each person helping you. Clear communication about who’s lifting what end and where you’re going is essential. Remember to use proper lifting techniques – bend at the knees, not the waist – to protect both yourself and the piano parts.
Don’t be shy about taking breaks when needed. Fatigue leads to accidents, and the last thing you want is someone dropping a piano component because they’re tired. Having spotters to guide those carrying heavy parts is also incredibly helpful, especially when navigating tight spaces.
According to surveys of professional piano movers, at least four people are recommended for safely moving an upright piano. Heavier or older pianos might require five or six helpers. This isn’t the time to cut corners on manpower!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
After helping countless families move their pianos, I’ve seen some common mistakes that you’ll definitely want to avoid.
First, never force stuck parts. If something won’t budge, there’s likely a hidden fastener or connection point you’ve missed. Forcing it will only lead to broken parts and frustration.
Second, rushing the process almost always ends badly. Piano disassembly isn’t a race – it’s a methodical process that requires care and attention. Set aside plenty of time, and you’ll thank yourself later.
Third, avoid handling hammers and felts with bare hands whenever possible. The oils from your skin can damage these sensitive components, affecting your piano’s sound quality.
Fourth, be thoughtful about how you stack components during transport. What might seem like a space-saving measure could result in warped or damaged parts.
Finally, keep track of all those tiny screws and fasteners! They have a magical ability to disappear just when you need them most.
“Don’t be a hero,” advises one experienced piano technician. This simple phrase captures an important truth: know your limits and don’t take unnecessary risks when disassembling and moving a piano. Sometimes, calling in the professionals is the wisest decision you can make.
At Bernard Movers, we’ve seen it all when it comes to piano moves, and we’re always here to help if you decide the DIY approach isn’t right for you.
Reassembling Your Upright Piano After Moving
Congratulations—you’ve successfully learned how to disassemble an upright piano for moving, steerd the challenges of transport, and arrived safely at your new destination. But wait, there’s one more crucial step: putting your beloved piano back together again!
While reassembling might seem like a daunting puzzle at first glance, don’t worry. By following a thoughtful approach, you’ll have your piano back in beautiful playing condition in no time.
Preparation for Reassembly
Before you jump into fitting parts back into place, take a moment to prepare your workspace and gather everything you’ll need.
Start by clearing and cleaning the area you’ve chosen as your piano’s new home. You want a tidy, open space with plenty of room to maneuver and lay out components safely.
Next, position the piano frame exactly where you want the piano to remain. Because even the frame alone is heavy, it’s far easier to move it now than after the piano is fully assembled.
Carefully gather all labeled parts and hardware that you’ve packed away or stored during the move. Hopefully, you’ve taken our advice and clearly labeled everything. Grab your notes, photographs, and tools for easy reference. Double-check that each component is clean, intact, and ready for installation.
Reassembly Steps
Now, let’s carefully walk through the reassembly process. You’ll essentially reverse the steps you followed earlier when learning how to disassemble an upright piano for moving.
Begin by reattaching the pedal assembly (lyre) first. Position it securely beneath the piano frame and reattach any screws or fasteners. Double-check the stability and make sure pedal rods reconnect smoothly.
If you’ve removed the keys, now is the time to install them back in, carefully placing each one exactly in the correct order. Refer to your labeling system and photos to avoid mix-ups—your future self (and your piano tuner) will thank you.
Next comes the most delicate component: the piano action. Remember the 30-45 degree angle you used when removing it? Recreate that same angle and gently slide the action into position. Once it’s seated, secure it with the original thumbscrews, tightening them gently and evenly to avoid stressing the mechanism.
Now, it’s time to reinstall the external components. Carefully reattach the fallboard, ensuring it opens and closes smoothly. Then, reinsert the music desk in its proper place, confirming that it’s securely attached.
Finally, put the finishing touches on your upright piano by carefully reattaching the key cover and top lid. Double-check hinges, screws, and alignment to ensure everything opens and closes as it should.
Post-Assembly Considerations
After you’ve successfully reassembled your upright piano, it will need a little time and attention to return to optimal playing condition.
First, allow your piano some breathing room to acclimate to its new environment—ideally for at least a few weeks. Changes in humidity and temperature can affect tuning and overall stability. Letting your piano settle in first ensures more accurate and longer-lasting tuning.
Once acclimated, have your piano professionally tuned. Even the gentlest moves can put stress on strings and action mechanisms. A professional tuner will fine-tune the instrument and make any necessary adjustments to hammers, keys, or pedals.
As part of your post-assembly checks, carefully inspect all moving parts and mechanisms. Test each key, pedal, and cover to confirm everything is functioning exactly as it should. This is also a great opportunity to thoroughly clean your piano, removing any dust or debris from the move that may have settled during transport.
Feeling overwhelmed or unsure about handling piano reassembly yourself? For a stress-free experience, consider Bernard Movers’ Full-Service Moving options. Our seasoned piano-moving professionals take care of every step, ensuring your treasured instrument is perfectly reassembled and ready for your next musical chapter.
Conclusion
Disassembling an upright piano for moving is undoubtedly a challenging task—but with the right preparation, tools, and a handful of willing helpers, it’s entirely manageable. By carefully following each step we’ve covered on how to disassemble an upright piano for moving, you’re well on your way to ensuring your valuable instrument (and your back!) remains free from damage.
Still, let’s be honest—piano moving isn’t for everyone. As one expert wisely said, “Moving a piano without professional help is highly discouraged due to the risks of injury and instrument damage.” This advice is especially true if your piano is particularly valuable or your moving path includes tricky staircases or narrow spaces.
At Bernard Movers, we’ve proudly helped countless families and businesses safely move their pianos across Chicago, Illinois, and across the country. Our specialized expertise and professional equipment ensure that your piano arrives in the same pristine condition it left your home. For stress-free piano relocation handled by experienced professionals, check out our dedicated Piano Moving services.
While hiring professionals typically costs between $400 and $1,000—depending on your piano’s size, the complexity of the move, and other factors—it’s a worthwhile investment. After all, this can save you from costly repairs to your instrument and, more importantly, expensive medical bills from a DIY move gone wrong!
And here’s some great news if you’re planning a move to Georgia or Florida—we’re currently offering a fantastic 20% additional discount if you book your move for delivery by March 15, 2025. Reach out to us today to take advantage of this special offer and let our experts simplify your piano move from start to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need to Disassemble My Upright Piano for Moving?
Here’s what to consider when deciding whether you need to disassemble your piano:
- Piano size and weight: Larger, heavier upright pianos typically require some disassembly to move safely.
- Moving path obstacles: Narrow doorways, tight corners, or staircases often mean you’ll need to take apart certain components.
- Distance of the move: Longer-distance moves frequently require more thorough preparation, including partial disassembly.
- Help available: If you don’t have plenty of strong helpers, disassembling makes the move far more manageable.
Professional piano movers can sometimes move smaller uprights without taking them apart, thanks to specialized equipment. But for DIY moves, at least partial disassembly is usually recommended for safety.
Can I Disassemble My Piano Without Professional Help?
It’s possible—but proceed carefully! Before deciding to take on the task yourself, make sure you fully understand the potential challenges:
First, you’ll need technical knowledge because pianos contain thousands of intricate parts. Secondly, there’s a significant risk of damage if anything goes wrong during disassembly. Also, consider safety concerns—piano parts are heavy, cumbersome, and awkwardly shaped. Lastly, don’t underestimate the difficulty of reassembling your piano correctly later on.
If you feel confident about tackling this project, carefully follow each step outlined in our guide on how to disassemble an upright piano for moving. And remember—if you run into trouble, don’t hesitate to contact a professional. For additional moving guidance, check out our Moving Tips page.
How Do I Ensure My Piano Is Reassembled Correctly After Moving?
Ensuring a smooth reassembly comes down to excellent preparation and documentation during disassembly:
Be meticulous about labeling every part you remove—use numbers, colors, or clear descriptions. Take plenty of photos and videos throughout the process, focusing especially on how components fit together. Keep detailed notes on any tricky steps or unusual parts. When removing pieces, note which way they face—orientation matters significantly when you put things back together.
After reassembling your piano, schedule a professional tuning once it’s had a few weeks to adjust to its new environment. Removing the action and keys typically reduces the instrument’s weight by only about 10-20%, so even after disassembly, the main structure will remain quite heavy.
The goal of piano disassembly is simply to ensure safe transport while protecting your investment. Whether you choose the DIY route or opt for the trusted specialists at Bernard Movers, careful planning and thorough execution make all the difference. Here’s wishing you a smooth, safe, and harmonious move!