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Moving a piano isn’t just another heavy lifting job—it’s a delicate operation that combines strength, strategy, and respect for one of your most cherished instruments. At Vango Removals LTD, we’ve helped countless customers move their pianos safely and stress-free, and today we’re sharing the truth about how to move a piano—and why it’s usually better not to go it alone.
Before you even think about lifting a piano, you need the right gear, the right help, and a solid plan.
Upright pianos may look compact, but they’re incredibly heavy and top-heavy. Here’s how to approach it:
Secure the Lid & Keys
Close and lock the lid. If there’s no lock, wrap it with moving blankets and secure it with stretch wrap.
Protect the Piano Body
Use thick blankets to cover the entire piano. Tape it securely, but avoid placing tape directly on the finish.
Lift with a Team, Not Your Back
With at least 2-4 strong people, carefully tilt the piano onto a dolly. Keep it upright at all times—never lay it flat.
Maneuver Through Doorways
Measure all doorways and paths in advance. Tilt slightly if needed, but avoid twisting or sharp turns.
Grand pianos are more complex and fragile. Here’s a safe step-by-step overview:
Remove the Legs and Pedals
Always start with the lid, then carefully unscrew the legs and pedal box. Place all parts in padded boxes.
Wrap the Piano Body
Wrap the main body in moving blankets, secure with shrink wrap, and use a piano board to stabilize it.
Team Lift and Load
Use straps to secure the piano to the skid board. Then, with a strong team, move it onto the moving truck ramp slowly and evenly.
🧠 Did you know? Grand pianos can weigh over 500 kg—and their internal strings are under more than 18 tons of tension!
Each surface presents its own challenge:
Use a piano dolly—wheels alone may not roll well on carpet.
Avoid dragging. Always lift slightly to prevent tipping.
Place rubber-wheeled dollies and lay down Masonite sheets or sliders.
Protect the floor with blankets and pads.
❤️ We always treat your floors like our own—because what’s underneath your piano matters too.
These are the most dangerous parts of any piano move. Whether it’s one step or an entire staircase, here’s what to remember:
Use a skid board and stair ramp.
One person should guide at the top, two control the descent.
Move slowly and communicate constantly.
Requires extra strength and caution.
Secure straps tightly and use ramps or reinforced boards.
It’s never recommended without professional help.
⚠️ One slip on stairs can cause injury, property damage—or total destruction of the piano. Please don’t risk it.
If your piano has emotional or monetary value (and let’s face it—most do), hiring pros like Vango Removals LTD is a smart move.
✅ Experience with stairs, small spaces, and fragile parts
✅ Specialized equipment to prevent damage
✅ Trained crews who coordinate every step
✅ Insurance for your peace of mind
✨ At Vango, we don’t just move your piano. We respect its story and handle it like a masterpiece.
Moving a piano is not your average DIY weekend project. It’s a job that demands preparation, teamwork, and the right touch. Whether you’re relocating across London or just moving rooms, we’re here to help you move your piano with care, skill, and confidence.
Van Go Removals offers reliable removals & man and van services in London. Whether you need house removals, secure storage, or same-day deliveries, our friendly team is here to help make your move easy and stress-free.