July 31, 2025

How to Move a Piano

Maybe you’re a concert pianist with a beloved grand piano that you play every evening. Or perhaps you don’t know how to play the piano but have inherited the family heirloom. Whatever the case, there may come a time when you need to move that piano to another spot. For instance, maybe you want to move it into your living room or to the new house you just bought in another city.

Pianos are heavy and unwieldy instruments. So, how do you move a piano? You’ve come to the right place to find out! Our guide on how to move a piano offers all the best advice. Whether you need to transport it down the hall or across town, follow these steps to discover the best way to move a piano!

Step #1: Create a Game Plan

If you’re wondering how to move a piano yourself, begin by assessing the instrument.

Determine what kind of piano you have and what the moving process might involve. We recommend measuring the piano’s dimensions and assessing its weight so you can plan out what supplies you’ll need and how many people need to help you.

Now, the easiest way to move a piano involves using moving supplies like a dolly, moving straps, and a skid board, a special moving board designed for pianos. You’ll also want to stock up on some blankets for wrapping around the piano during the move, and if you’re transporting it into a vehicle, a ramp may come in handy, too.

The next step involves figuring out how you plan to move the piano. Map out what path you’ll take, and be sure to measure any walkways and doorways to confirm that the piano will fit. While you’re at it, clear the pathway to ensure there are no obstacles that you could trip over and keep any children and pets away from the moving area.

During this step, you’ll also want to consider transportation options if you move the piano to a new location. This may involve clearing out the back of your van or hiring a rental truck to transport it for you. If you decide to rent a moving truck, make arrangements ahead of time to ensure one is available for you on the day of the move.

Step #2: Prepare the Piano

Once you’ve determined how to move your piano, you can begin preparing it.

No one wants to move a dusty or dirty piano, so take the time to wipe it down from top to bottom. Use a lint-free cloth and some soapy water to clean the body of the piano and its keys. Once the piano is all clean and dry, be sure to close and lock the keyboard lid.

Your best option may be to remove parts to help make it lighter. If possible, unscrew the legs and pedals and keep them in a safe space during the move, so you can screw them back on later. Then, use some large blankets and wrap them around the piano. This adds padding and helps prevent dents and dings.

Step #3: Put Your Plan in Motion

Now that your piano is ready for the big move, it’s time to transport it to its new destination.

Above all, the best way to move a piano is with the help of others, so round up a few friends or relatives to give you a hand. From here, your group can slowly and carefully tilt the piano onto the skid board, with the keyboard facing toward the ground. Then, use the moving straps to attach the piano to the skid board and place it onto the dolly.

While lifting and moving the piano, be sure to communicate with those who are helping you so that everyone understands their role and what to do. Also, remind everyone to lift with their legs to help prevent injuries.

As you begin moving the piano, take special care when passing corners and going down any stairs. If you place the piano in a vehicle, it’s a good idea to set up a ramp to make it easier to wheel the piano into the truck or van.

Learn More About Stor-It

Figuring out how to move a piano may not be the only predicament that you face during your next move. Whether you need to know how to move heavy furniture or pack up your storage unit, Stor-It can help. We’re the oldest and largest storage facility in Idaho, making us the experts in the industry.