1. The Hidden Challenge Behind Every Grand Piano Move
It looks effortless when professionals do it — a graceful lift, a gentle turn through a narrow hallway, a confident stride to the van. But moving a grand piano safely is a complex ballet of precision, planning, and strength.
A grand piano can weigh anywhere between 250 and 500 kilograms. Its weight isn’t evenly distributed, its centre of balance shifts as it’s lifted, and a single careless move can cause serious damage — not only to the piano but to the movers, the property, or the flooring beneath.
And yet, many people still ask the same question: “Can’t we just move it ourselves?”
This blog answers that question the professional way — the way Piano-S, Hampshire’s trusted piano removal and restoration specialists, have done for decades across London, Surrey, and West Sussex.
We’ll walk you through how experts prepare, what they avoid, and what really matters when transporting a piano that deserves care, not risk.
2. Why Moving a Piano Is Nothing Like Moving Furniture
It’s tempting to think of a piano as just another large item. But a grand piano is a living instrument — a combination of over 12,000 parts, each calibrated to exact tension and balance.
Inside that polished case are hundreds of fragile strings, a delicate soundboard, and precisely balanced action components. When moved incorrectly, the following risks arise:
- Soundboard damage from stress or vibration.
- Broken legs or lyres from incorrect lifting angles.
- Finish scratches or dents that compromise appearance.
- Frame warping from twisting forces.
- Tuning instability that requires expensive correction.
Professional piano movers treat the instrument as both an artwork and a mechanism. They protect it not just from external damage, but from internal stress.
3. The Professional Way: How Experts Move Grand Pianos
Every safe piano move starts long before the piano is touched.
Step 1 — Assessment and Planning
Professionals measure doors, staircases, hallways, and turning angles. They visualise the route, identify potential hazards, and plan dismantling where necessary.
At Piano-S, this initial assessment is part of every removal. We factor in environment, flooring, access points, and the piano’s size — whether it’s a baby grand in a flat or a concert grand in a school hall.
Step 2 — Preparation
Movers protect the area with covers and flooring sheets. The piano’s lid, music stand, and lyre are removed carefully. The pedals and legs are detached in sequence to maintain balance.
Step 3 — Secure Packing
The body is wrapped in thick, quilted blankets, with edges and corners padded. Custom dollies or skids are fitted beneath. Every piece is strapped securely — never relying on bare hands or guesswork.
Step 4 — Lifting and Loading
Specialist ramps, hoists, and piano boards ensure smooth movement without strain. Balance is maintained throughout; communication between movers is constant.
Step 5 — Transport
Pianos are loaded into climate-stable, shock-absorbing vans designed for heavy, sensitive cargo. The instrument is anchored to prevent vibration and movement.
Step 6 — Reassembly and Tuning
Once delivered, the piano is reassembled and positioned in its new home — away from heat sources and sunlight. After a short settling period, a professional tuning restores perfect pitch and tone.
4. Mistakes People Make When Attempting DIY Piano Moves
- Underestimating weight and size.
Even the smallest grand is wider than most doorways and heavier than four people can safely carry. - Using general moving straps.
These apply uneven force — risking cracks, finish damage, or tipping. - Not removing detachable parts.
Leaving the legs or pedals on can cause sudden collapses. - No proper packing or blankets.
Thin cloths or bubble wrap aren’t enough. Proper padding is dense and layered. - Forgetting about humidity and temperature.
Exposure to extreme cold or damp vans can harm the piano’s finish and tone. - Skipping post-move tuning.
Every move shifts string tension. Without tuning afterwards, the piano will sound unstable.
5. How to Prepare Your Piano Before a Move
You can make your piano mover’s job easier — and safer — with a few smart steps:
- Clear the path: remove rugs, small furniture, and clutter from doorways and hallways.
- Measure everything: width, height, turns, and stairs.
- Secure lids and pedals: ensure everything is closed before the team arrives.
- Communicate clearly: let movers know about tight spots or delicate flooring.
- Plan the placement: decide exactly where the piano will go in your new location to minimise handling.
6. What Happens After a Piano Move
Even with flawless handling, a piano needs time to adjust after a move.
Temperature and Humidity Adjustment
Wood and felt react to climate changes. After relocation, allow the piano to stabilise for 7–10 days before tuning.
Post-Move Tuning
A tuning appointment ensures proper pitch and even temperament once the instrument has settled.
Visual Inspection
Your mover should check for movement of pedals, keybed alignment, or small shifts in casing.
Continued Care
Once settled, maintain the environment — consistent temperature, moderate humidity, and away from direct sunlight.
7. Why Professional Movers Are Worth It
Experience and Equipment
Specialist movers use piano-specific trolleys, ramps, harnesses, and vehicles. This equipment — and the training behind it — is what prevents damage.
Insurance and Accountability
A reputable company provides full insurance and documented handling procedures. If something unexpected happens, you’re protected.
Efficiency and Peace of Mind
Experienced teams complete moves smoothly, safely, and on schedule — saving stress and risk.
The Piano-S Difference
Our Hampshire-based team operates across London, Surrey, and West Sussex, offering:
- Dedicated piano transport vans.
- Fully insured collection and delivery.
- Expert dismantling and reassembly.
- Post-move tuning and inspection.
8. How to Choose the Right Piano Removal Company
Look for these essential qualities before you book:
- Specialisation: not just general removals, but piano-specific expertise.
- Insurance: cover for both property and instrument.
- Reviews: genuine testimonials from previous clients.
- Coverage: regional service across your area (London, Hampshire, Surrey, West Sussex).
- Aftercare: advice or follow-up tuning options.
- Transparency: clear communication and timelines.
9. Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I move a grand piano myself?
It’s not recommended. Grand pianos require specialist lifting and protection. Attempting to move one without proper training and equipment risks injury and damage. - How do professionals move pianos upstairs or downstairs?
With specialised ramps, hoists, and team coordination. The piano is often partially dismantled and reassembled at the destination. - Do pianos need tuning after moving?
Yes. Changes in temperature, humidity, and vibration affect tuning stability. Allow 7–10 days before a professional tuning. - Is my piano insured during the move?
When you book with Piano-S, yes. We provide full insurance for collection, transport, and delivery. - Do you move upright and baby grands too?
Absolutely. We move all types — upright, baby grand, and concert grand — with equal care and expertise.
10. What to Expect When You Book with Piano-S
When you schedule a piano move with Piano-S, here’s what happens:
- We assess your space.
Our team gathers details about access, dimensions, and your piano type. - We plan your move.
You’ll receive a clear schedule and preparation checklist. - We protect your piano.
Every move includes full wrapping, padding, and strapping with professional-grade materials. - We transport safely.
Our vehicles are designed specifically for musical instruments. - We reassemble and advise.
Once in place, we check alignment, adjust pedals, and share environment care tips.
11. Final Thoughts: Safety, Skill, and Sound
Moving a grand piano isn’t a test of strength — it’s an exercise in respect. Respect for craftsmanship, for the value of the instrument, and for the space it occupies.
When done correctly, a move is seamless, and the piano arrives ready for another chapter of music-making.
When done carelessly, it’s an expensive mistake that’s easy to avoid with the right help.
So when your piano needs to move, let the professionals handle the heavy lifting — literally and figuratively.
Book your safe, insured piano move across London, Hampshire, Surrey and West Sussex with Piano-S.
Request a free removal quote