Protecting Your Musical Investment During a Move
Let’s face it – your piano isn’t just any piece of furniture. It’s a cherished musical companion that deserves special care when it’s time to relocate. How to pack an upright piano for moving might seem daunting at first, but with the right approach, you can ensure your beloved instrument arrives safely at its new home.
Quick Guide to Packing an Upright Piano for Moving:
- Gather supplies: Moving blankets, 4-wheel dolly, lifting straps, bubble wrap, packing tape
- Prep the piano: Lock or secure keyboard lid, protect pedals with bubble wrap
- Wrap completely: Cover entire piano with moving blankets, secure with straps (not tape on wood)
- Get help: Enlist at least 4 strong helpers for lifting
- Use proper equipment: Position on a piano dolly, secure with straps
- Load carefully: Place piano against the truck’s wall, secure with ratchet straps
Your upright piano is quite the heavyweight champion, tipping the scales anywhere from 300 to 900 pounds. Inside that beautiful wooden cabinet lives a mechanical marvel with over 10,000 moving parts, centered around a massive cast iron harp. This uneven weight distribution makes handling tricky – it’s not just heavy, it’s awkwardly heavy in ways that can surprise even experienced movers.
Rushing the packing process or cutting corners can lead to heartbreaking consequences. Damaged keys that stick or won’t play properly. Broken pedals that affect your ability to create dynamic sound. Even subtle structural shifts can transform your perfect pitch into something noticeably off-key.
Beyond protecting your musical investment, proper packing techniques safeguard something equally important – you! Improper lifting techniques or inadequate equipment can lead to serious back injuries and potential damage to your home’s doorways, walls, and floors.
Hi there, I’m Mina Georgalas, owner of Bernard Movers. Over our 50+ years helping musicians and families transport their pianos throughout Chicago and across 45 states, we’ve perfected the art of how to pack an upright piano for moving. Our methods ensure both your instrument and your property remain damage-free throughout the journey.
Looking for more detailed guidance on specific aspects of piano moving? These resources might help:
– how to disassemble an upright piano for moving
– how to make a piano moving dolly
– moving companies that move pianos
Gear, Helpers & Safety Essentials
When it comes to how to pack an upright piano for moving, having the right equipment isn’t just recommended—it’s absolutely essential. Your typical upright piano stands about 49 inches tall, stretches 59 inches long, and measures 24 inches deep, tipping the scales anywhere from 300 to 900 pounds. This isn’t something you can move with a regular dolly and a couple of buddies you bribed with pizza.
“Your piano isn’t just an instrument – it’s a family treasure,” I often remind our clients at Bernard Movers. Treating it with the respect it deserves means investing in proper moving equipment, whether you’re renting for a day or purchasing for multiple moves.
Here’s what you’ll need to safely relocate your musical masterpiece:
- Moving blankets (at least 4-6 heavy-duty ones)
- 4-wheel piano dolly rated for at least 1,000 pounds
- Lifting straps or shoulder harnesses
- Ratchet straps for securing to the dolly and in the truck
- Bubble wrap for keys and pedals
- Stretch wrap for securing blankets
- Packing tape (never applied directly to wood surfaces)
- Work gloves with grip
- Closed-toe shoes for all helpers
- Furniture corner protectors
- Floor runners or plywood sheets
- Stair ramp if stairs are involved
The financial side of things is worth considering too. Renting this equipment typically runs between $50-150 per day, while buying everything outright could cost $300-500. If you’re only moving once, renting makes the most sense—unless you’re planning to become the neighborhood piano-moving hero.
According to Forbes, the average cost to hire professional piano movers ranges from $258 to $563, with most people paying around $405. When you factor in equipment rental, helper compensation (even if it’s just buying lunch), and the value of your time, professional moving services often provide excellent value and peace of mind.
Create Your Master Supply List
Before you start wrapping your beloved upright, create a thorough checklist to ensure nothing gets forgotten. After helping thousands of families move their pianos, we’ve perfected this list:
| Equipment | Purpose | Rent/Buy | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Piano dolly (4-wheel) | Supports and moves piano | Rent | $25-40/day |
| Moving blankets (6) | Protect piano finish | Rent | $15-25/day |
| Lifting straps | Ergonomic lifting | Rent | $10-15/day |
| Ratchet straps (4) | Secure piano to dolly and truck | Buy | $20-30 |
| Bubble wrap | Protect keys and pedals | Buy | $15-25 |
| Stretch wrap | Secure blankets | Buy | $10-15 |
| Work gloves | Hand protection | Buy | $10-20 |
| Floor runners | Protect flooring | Buy/Rent | $20-40 |
| Stair ramp (if needed) | Steer stairs | Rent | $50-75/day |
Need more guidance on packing supplies for your entire move? Check out our comprehensive packing, loading, and storage guide.
Assemble a Capable Crew
Moving an upright piano is definitely not a solo performance. Based on our 50+ years of experience, you’ll need a minimum of four able-bodied people. Here’s why this matters so much:
Upright pianos have a sneaky, uneven weight distribution that shifts as you move them. That beautiful wooden case hides a cast iron harp that makes one side substantially heavier than the other. Plus, navigating stairs and tight corners requires multiple spotters to prevent damage to your piano, your home, and most importantly, your helpers!
When putting together your piano-moving ensemble, assign these key roles:
Your team leader should coordinate movements and give clear commands—think of them as the conductor of this moving symphony. You’ll need 2-3 lifters positioned at the heaviest parts of the piano, 1-2 spotters to guide the piano through tight spaces and protect walls, and a doorway manager to ensure clear passage through entryways.
As Ellogar, one of our veteran piano movers, always says: “I move pianos. Here’s what you need: Piano moving board… 3 people below, one above to guide and pull.” Simple but profound advice from someone who’s moved thousands of pianos.
Some crucial safety notes for your team:
Always lift with your legs, not your back—your knees should bend while your back stays straight. Everyone should wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes (those piano corners are merciless to exposed toes). Establish clear communication signals before any movement—”lift,” “stop,” “down,” etc.
Never rely on the piano’s casters for moving! Those little wheels might look useful, but they’re mostly decorative on modern uprights and can snap under the piano’s weight. And please, take breaks when needed—rushing is how accidents happen.
Here’s an interesting tidbit: while many movers swear by back support belts, the CDC and National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health haven’t found conclusive evidence that they prevent injury. Your best protection comes from proper lifting technique and adequate help.
With the right equipment and a capable crew, you’re well on your way to safely relocating your musical treasure. Just remember: when it comes to pianos, slow and steady wins the race!
Pre-Move Prep for Piano & Pathways
The key to a stress-free piano move lies in what happens before you even touch the instrument. As we like to say at Bernard Movers, “The piano move begins long before the piano moves.”
Start by grabbing your measuring tape – this simple tool prevents major headaches later:
- The piano: Measure height, width, and depth completely assembled
- All doorways: Don’t just measure the opening – include door frames, knobs, and hinges
- Hallways: Find the narrowest point (often not where you expect!)
- Staircases: Count every step, measure width and height clearance
- Truck or van: Confirm interior dimensions and ramp width
“Measure twice, move once” isn’t just a catchy phrase at Bernard Movers – it’s wisdom born from decades of experience. I’ll never forget the time a customer insisted their doorway was “definitely wide enough” only to find their beautiful upright piano wedged firmly in place. That extra 10 minutes of measuring would have saved hours of stress!
Next, transform your home into a piano-moving runway:
Clear every obstacle from the moving path. That decorative table that “might be fine” – it won’t be! Remove doors from hinges if clearance is tight (it’s easier than you think). Secure area rugs and cover hard floors with cardboard runners or plywood sheets. Use colored painter’s tape to mark tight corners where extra caution is needed.
For steps or stairs, metal ramps are absolutely worth the rental cost. They protect both your piano and your home while making the move significantly safer for your crew.
Don’t overlook climate considerations when planning how to pack an upright piano for moving. These sensitive instruments react poorly to temperature and humidity swings. If possible, move during moderate weather and keep the piano shielded from direct sunlight. Moving from Minnesota to Florida? Consider humidity control packs to ease the transition.
Before wrapping begins, document your piano’s current condition with clear photos from all angles. Note any existing scratches or dents – this prevents disputes later. Take a moment to check your homeowner’s insurance policy to see if your piano is covered during transit. For valuable instruments, additional insurance provides peace of mind worth every penny.
Safeguard Your Home Interior
Your walls, floors, and doorways deserve protection too! After 50+ years of moving pianos, we’ve developed some foolproof techniques to keep your home looking pristine.
Corner guards are absolute lifesavers for wall corners along the moving path. They’re inexpensive and prevent costly repairs. Cardboard runners or plywood sheets on floors serve two purposes: preventing scratches and distributing the piano’s considerable weight.
Here’s a clever hack we’ve finded: baby-proof door bumpers work wonderfully to protect door frames during a piano move. They’re inexpensive, easy to install, and remove without damage.
Don’t forget to remove art, photos, and décor from walls along the moving path. That family portrait has sentimental value that can’t be replaced!
For particularly tight turns, create a “mock piano” using cardboard boxes taped together to match your piano’s dimensions. This lets you test clearance without risking the real thing – a trick our professional movers use regularly.
If you’re navigating stairs, protect your banisters by securing moving blankets with stretch wrap (never tape, which can damage finishes). Even professional movers occasionally bump into things, and this simple step prevents costly repairs.
Thorough preparation might feel time-consuming, but it’s the foundation of a successful piano move. As we tell our customers at Bernard Movers, “An hour of prep saves a day of regret.”
How to Pack an Upright Piano for Moving: Step-by-Step Guide
Let’s face it – wrapping a piano isn’t exactly like wrapping a birthday present. But with the right approach, you can create a protective cocoon that keeps your musical investment safe throughout its journey. I’ve helped hundreds of families move their pianos, and I’m excited to share what really works!
Step 1: Prepare the Keyboard
First things first – secure that keyboard lid. If your piano has a lock, use it! No lock? No problem:
– Lay a thin sheet of foam or felt over the keys to prevent them from dancing around
– Gently close the lid over this protective layer
– Secure it with stretch wrap, making several passes around the piano
– Remember the golden rule: never apply tape directly to your piano’s finish
Step 2: Protect the Pedals
Those delicate pedals are like the piano’s feet – they need special shoes for this journey!
– Individually wrap each pedal with bubble wrap
– Secure with masking tape (keeping it away from the piano itself)
– For extra protection, consider placing a small box over the wrapped pedals
– Secure this protective covering with stretch wrap around the lower portion
Step 3: Create a Blanket Cocoon
Now for the main event – wrapping the piano’s body:
– Start by placing bubble wrap on corners and any protruding elements (these are impact magnets!)
– Wrap the entire piano with moving blankets, starting from the top and working down
– Make sure blankets overlap by at least 6 inches – think of it like shingling a roof
– Pay extra attention to those vulnerable corners
– If you’re moving to a different climate, leave a small breathing space near the soundboard (usually at the back)
Step 4: Secure the Blankets
Those blankets won’t stay put on their own! Here’s how to keep them snug:
– Use ratchet straps horizontally around the piano – typically you’ll need 3-4 straps
– Position them strategically: one near the top, one at the middle, and one near the bottom
– Tighten enough to hold everything in place, but not so tight that you’re squeezing the piano
– Think “secure hug,” not “death grip”
Step 5: Apply Final Layer of Protection
Let’s add one more layer of security:
– Wrap the entire blanketed piano with stretch wrap, working from bottom to top
– Create an overlapping pattern for maximum protection
– Keep it snug but not tight – we’re securing blankets, not compressing the piano
– Pay special attention to the bottom edge that will rest on the dolly
Step 6: Label Properly
Now that your piano looks like a giant wrapped package, make sure everyone knows what’s inside:
– Attach “Fragile” and “This Side Up” labels on all sides
– Clearly mark which side is the front and back
– Add any special handling instructions if needed
How to Pack an Upright Piano for Moving – Protecting Keys & Pedals
The keyboard and pedals are the interactive parts of your piano – the parts that make the magic happen. They deserve extra attention.
For your precious keys:
– Lock that keyboard lid if possible (it’s there for a reason!)
– If there’s no lock, that stretch wrap method I mentioned earlier works wonders
– For valuable pianos, place a thin foam sheet between the keys and lid – think of it as a little mattress for your keys
– Keep all tape far away from the keys and wooden surfaces – they’re not friends!
For those expressive pedals:
– Give each pedal its own bubble wrap blanket
– Secure with painter’s tape or masking tape (again, never on the piano itself)
– Avoid the temptation to wrap too tightly – bent pedal rods are a costly repair
– For particularly valuable instruments, consider removing the pedals if you know how (or call us!)
As Maria, one of our senior piano movers often says, “I’ve seen too many pianos arrive with broken pedals because they weren’t properly protected. It’s a shame because they’re relatively easy to protect but expensive to repair.”
How to Pack an Upright Piano for Moving – Full-Body Wrapping Technique
Think of wrapping your piano like bundling up a child for winter – layers matter, and some spots need extra attention. Here’s our technique, refined over thousands of piano moves:
- Start with bubble wrap on corners and protruding elements – these are impact zones!
- Position your blankets so they overlap by at least 6 inches – no gaps allowed
- Begin wrapping at the top, then down the sides, around the front and back
- Use tape to keep blankets positioned (never directly on the piano)
- Position your straps at the top third, middle, and bottom third of the piano
- Finish with stretch wrap in an overlapping spiral from bottom to top
Pro tip: Invest in quality moving blankets that are at least 1/4 inch thick. Your grandmother’s quilts might be lovely, but they weren’t designed to protect a 500-pound musical instrument!
Model-Specific Tweaks
Pianos are like people – they come in different shapes and sizes, and each needs special consideration. Here’s how to adapt your approach based on your specific upright:
Spinet Pianos (the petite ones, about 36-40″ tall)
These smaller uprights are surprisingly tricky! They’re more top-heavy than they look, typically weighing 300-400 pounds. You’ll want extra support at the bottom when on the dolly to prevent tipping.
Console Pianos (the middle children, 40-43″ tall)
These have a more balanced weight distribution, making them more predictable to move. Standard wrapping techniques work beautifully for these 350-450 pound instruments.
Studio Pianos (the teenagers, 45-48″ tall)
With their taller profile, these 400-600 pound pianos require extra attention to balance. You might need additional helpers just to keep things stable during the move.
Full Upright Pianos (the giants, 50″+ tall)
These magnificent beasts are the most challenging to move due to their impressive height and substantial 500-900 pound weight. They demand careful balance on dollies and may need special doorway strategies.
What about those vintage casters? Here’s my advice after moving thousands of pianos:
– For short moves on smooth surfaces, sturdy casters can be helpful
– For most moves, especially with stairs or uneven floors, secure those casters with stretch wrap
– Never trust the casters for moving any significant distance – they’re decorative, not load-bearing
How to pack an upright piano for moving isn’t just about protection – it’s about preserving your musical legacy for generations to come!
Lift, Load & Secure Your Upright
With your piano properly wrapped, we’re now facing the most physically demanding part of the process. As someone who’s moved countless pianos, I can tell you that this is where teamwork truly matters!
Positioning the Dolly
First things first—let’s get that dolly in position. Place it near the narrowest side of your piano and double-check that all wheels are locked. This might seem obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people skip this crucial step! Make absolutely certain your dolly is rated for your piano’s weight—this isn’t the time to test equipment limits.
For the actual positioning, have your strongest helpers stand at the heaviest side (usually the back where all those strings and the cast iron plate live). I always tell my clients, “Position your team where the piano needs them most, not where it’s most comfortable to stand.”
The Lift
Now comes the moment of truth—the actual lift. Proper technique here isn’t just about protecting your piano; it’s about protecting your backs! Everyone should bend at the knees with backs straight (I can’t emphasize this enough). On the count of three, lift simultaneously—teamwork makes the dream work!
Lift just high enough to slide the dolly underneath while one person guides it into position. Then, gently lower the piano onto the dolly. Remember what my grandfather, who founded Bernard Movers, always said: “A piano should never know it’s being moved.” Smooth, controlled movements are key.
Securing to the Dolly
Once your upright is resting on the dolly, it’s time to make it one with its temporary wheels. Use ratchet straps to secure the piano to the dolly by placing them under the dolly and over the piano. Tighten until secure but not so tight that you’re putting pressure on the piano’s structure.
Give it the “nudge test”—the piano shouldn’t shift when gently pushed. If it does, your straps need tightening. One of our movers, Frank, has a saying: “If it wiggles, it will wander.” Take the time to get this right.
Moving to the Truck
With your piano secured to the dolly, assign one person to guide from the front while others position at the back to push and control. Move slowly—I mean really slowly—especially over thresholds or uneven surfaces. When tackling ramps, position more helpers at the lower end for control.
Communication is absolutely vital here. We use simple calls like “step,” “turn,” and “stop” to keep everyone on the same page. When we’re training new movers at Bernard, we tell them, “If you’re not talking, you’re not moving safely.”
Loading First Rule
At Bernard Movers, we religiously follow the “piano first” rule when loading. Your piano should be the first item loaded into the truck, positioned against the front wall (behind the cab). This isn’t just tradition—it provides maximum protection and stability during transit by preventing other items from sliding into your valuable instrument.
For more information about safe lifting techniques for all your moving needs, visit our moving tips page.
Navigating Stairs & Tight Turns
I’ll be honest with you—stairs present the greatest challenge when moving an upright piano. If there’s one part of the move where hiring professionals makes the most sense, it’s this one. We’ve seen too many pianos (and people!) damaged on staircases.
If you must steer stairs yourself, use a professional-grade metal stair ramp when possible. If that’s not an option, create a sturdy ramp with thick plywood securely fastened together. Position at least two strong people at the bottom of the stairs and two at the top, with one person designated as the communicator.
Move one step at a time, pausing between steps. Never—and I mean never—rush or allow the piano to build momentum. I’ve seen what happens when gravity takes over on a staircase, and it’s not pretty for the piano or the movers!
For tight turns, planning is everything. Measure your piano diagonally to ensure it will clear the turn. In many cases, temporarily removing doors from their hinges gives you those crucial extra inches. Use what we call the “inch by inch” method, making tiny adjustments rather than trying to force the turn in one movement.
A study published in the Journal of Occupational Health found that most injuries during heavy object moving occur during transitions—like navigating stairs or turning corners. Clear communication is truly your best safety tool in these situations.
For more information about proper lifting techniques and injury prevention, check out this helpful guide on back safety during heavy lifting.
Strapping the Piano Inside the Truck
Once your how to pack an upright piano for moving journey has reached the truck, proper securing is essential. Position the piano against the front wall and keep it upright—never lay it on its back or side, as this can cause serious internal damage.
Use the truck’s built-in wall slats or tie-down points with at least two ratchet straps—one near the top and one near the bottom. For extra peace of mind, add a third strap around the middle. The piano shouldn’t be able to move more than an inch in any direction when secured properly.
For weight distribution in the truck, keep heavier items near the front, never stack anything on top of your piano (I’ve seen this mistake too many times!), and create a buffer zone around the piano with lighter, well-secured items.
If you’re moving in extreme weather, be mindful of temperature changes. Park in the shade during hot weather stops, avoid prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures, and minimize time between climate-controlled environments. Your piano is sensitive to these changes, just like fine wooden furniture.
When it comes to moving your musical treasure, patience isn’t just a virtue—it’s a necessity. Take your time, follow these steps, and your piano will arrive ready to fill your new home with beautiful music.
Frequently Asked Questions about Packing an Upright Piano
Will my piano need tuning after the move?
Picture this: you’ve successfully moved your beloved piano to its new home, carefully following our how to pack an upright piano for moving guide. Everything looks perfect, but when you sit down to play… something sounds a bit off.
Don’t worry! This is completely normal. Pianos are surprisingly sensitive instruments that react to changes in their environment. Think of your piano as a living thing that needs time to settle into its new surroundings.
Here’s what typically happens:
– The wood, strings, and internal components expand and contract with temperature and humidity changes
– This shifting affects the tension of the strings, altering the pitch
– The vibrations from the move itself can slightly loosen tuning pins
Our recommendation is to wait 2-4 weeks after your move before scheduling a tuning. This patience allows your piano to fully acclimate to its new environment’s temperature and humidity levels. When you do schedule service, look for a professional tuner who specializes in your specific type of piano.
As one of our longtime clients, a piano teacher in Chicago, told us: “A piano is like a living thing – it needs time to get comfortable in its new home before it’s ready to sing properly.” We couldn’t agree more!
Should I remove the wheels or legs?
One of the most common questions we hear at Bernard Movers involves those little wheels on the bottom of upright pianos. Despite what seems logical, for most upright pianos, removing the casters or legs is unnecessary and potentially risky if you’re not experienced.
Here’s the truth about piano casters: they’re primarily decorative, not functional moving equipment. Those small wheels were designed for minor position adjustments in your living room, not for rolling a 500-pound instrument down a hallway or up a ramp.
If your piano has casters, here’s what you should know:
– Secure loose or wobbly casters with stretch wrap before moving
– Never attempt to roll the piano any significant distance on its casters
– For antique pianos with particularly delicate legs, consult a piano technician before moving
It’s worth noting that grand pianos (which are structured completely differently than uprights) do require leg removal for safe transport. But for your upright, keeping everything intact is usually the safest approach.
What are the biggest DIY mistakes to avoid?
In our 50+ years helping families move their musical treasures, we’ve seen some… let’s call them “creative” DIY piano moving attempts. Some have been harmless, while others have resulted in damaged instruments, damaged homes, and even injuries.
The most common mistake? Underestimating the weight. That upright piano in your living room likely weighs between 300-900 pounds – about the same as a full-grown male grizzly bear! This leads to using inadequate equipment and too few helpers.
Other critical mistakes to avoid include:
Using improper straps – Those bungee cords from your garage aren’t made for piano moving. Always use proper ratchet straps rated for heavy loads.
Rushing the process – Piano moving is methodical, not quick. Each step should be deliberate and careful.
Moving with too few people – Four strong adults is the absolute minimum for safety. For larger uprights, six is better.
Laying the piano on its back – This can cause catastrophic internal damage to the soundboard and action mechanisms.
Taping directly on wood surfaces – When removed, tape can pull off finish and veneer. Always place blankets first.
Relying on those little wheels – As mentioned above, casters aren’t moving equipment.
One customer shared this cautionary tale: “What I thought would save me $400 ended up costing me $2,100 in repairs and a trip to the emergency room. Hire professionals.” While we appreciate his endorsement, we’d rather you avoid the emergency room visit altogether!
When it comes to how to pack an upright piano for moving, careful preparation is everything. Whether you decide to DIY with our guidance or call in the professionals at Bernard Movers, taking the time to do it right protects both your investment and your back.
Conclusion
Moving a piano isn’t just about relocating an object—it’s about safely transporting a family treasure that holds memories of first recitals, holiday gatherings, and quiet evenings filled with music. Throughout this guide, we’ve walked through the detailed process of how to pack an upright piano for moving, from gathering supplies to securing it in the truck.
While the DIY approach is certainly possible with proper planning and equipment, many of our customers tell us the same thing after attempting it themselves: “I wish I had called you first!”
At Bernard Movers, piano moving isn’t just something we do—it’s something we’ve perfected over decades. Our teams have safely transported thousands of pianos throughout Chicago, across Illinois, and to homes in 45 states nationwide. We understand that your piano isn’t just an instrument; it’s often the centerpiece of your home and the keeper of cherished family memories.
Once your piano arrives at its new home, it will need time to adjust to its new environment. The wood, strings, and mechanisms are sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity. We recommend waiting 2-4 weeks before scheduling a tuning service to allow your piano to acclimate properly to its new surroundings.
For those planning a move to warmer climates, we’re currently offering something special—a 20% additional discount on moves to Georgia and Florida for deliveries booked by March 15, 2025. This includes our comprehensive piano moving service with all the specialized equipment and experienced handlers your instrument deserves.
I remember helping a family move their 85-year-old upright that had been played by four generations. The grandmother told me, “I’m not worried about any of my other belongings—just get my piano there safely.” That’s the kind of trust we work to earn every day.
For a no-obligation quote on your piano move or to learn more about how our team can help with your relocation, visit our piano moving services page. We’d be honored to help your piano make a safe journey to its next home, where it can continue creating music and memories for years to come.