A piano is a large and expensive instrument, and it's not uncommon for them to be old relics, passed down for years through the same family. Upright pianos are more compact and easier to remove and relocate; however, a grand piano is much larger and can pose huge problems when it comes to moving it without causing substantial damage. This guide will offer a number of handy hints to prepare your instrument for the piano removalist, and to support them during the process. Just be sure to hire a reputable company who offer an insurance package along with their services. 

Getting Legless and Wrapping Up

Grand pianos have large legs that support the repositioning of the instrument in the hall or home, but pose a large problem when relocating it. The legs can be removed, and you should have some people help you remove them. Having a team to lift the piano, or even hiring a small jack with a large-based top, will enable you to remove the weight from legs and unscrew them. Just be careful when placing the piano down as fingers can get trapped.

The legs should then be wrapped individually in transit blankets. These are usually made from recycled wool and provide a soft cover for all manner of goods. The wool won't scratch the lacquered surface and is cross-stitched for added strength and durability. Tape can be used to hold it in place, and these should be placed in a long, corrugated card box. The body and keys should also be wrapped up; however, doing this can be tricky. Try to have blankets on the floor before you lower it down so that you don't have to lift it back up again.

Slide It Along

Ideally, you'll have what's known as a piano skid board. If not, then the removalist company should. It's a large table on wheels that will hold the piano and allow you to wheel it about. Perhaps place the blankets on there before lowering to save another job. Using tape will secure the blanket, but a strong industrial strap with a hand crank will help you to take away any tension and limit the movement of the piano on the table. Before moving, make sure you know the sizes of each of the doorways you'll need to navigate through. If they are too small, you may have to resort to removing the piano via a window with a crane.