How to Move a Piano (Without Breaking Your Back or Budget)

Moving a piano isn’t just about muscle, it’s about strategy, safety, and the right team. These heavy, delicate instruments require more than brute force. If done wrong, it can lead to injury, damage, or both. So how do you move a piano without breaking your back or your budget?

1. Know Your Piano Type

Whether it's an upright, baby grand, or full concert piano, size and weight vary drastically. Upright pianos can weigh up to 250kg, while grand pianos can easily exceed 500kg. Knowing your piano type helps determine the right equipment and crew.

2. Don’t DIY—Hire Professional Piano Movers

This is not the time for a DIY move. You need experienced piano movers who understand weight distribution, balancing techniques, and protective handling. At Nexus Movers, our trained team uses specialised dollies, straps, and padding to ensure a safe piano relocation.

3. Use the Right Equipment

Professionals come prepared with piano boards, skid boards, ramps, and heavy-duty straps to manage tight corners and stairs. Never attempt to move a piano with just a trolley—it risks serious injury and property damage.

4. Protect the Instrument

Pianos are not just heavy, they’re sensitive. Extreme temperatures, vibrations, and even slight bumps can affect their tuning or damage internal parts. Wrap your piano in heavy blankets or padded covers and avoid moving it in wet or humid conditions.

5. Think About Placement and Tuning

Once moved, place your piano against an interior wall, away from windows or heating sources. After a long-distance or interstate move, give it time to settle before scheduling a tuning.