Moving a piano is not like moving any other piece of furniture. Pianos are large, heavy, and fragile at the same time. Whether it’s an upright piano in your living room or a grand piano in a performance space, each one requires special handling. If you are planning to move a piano in Melbourne, you need more than just muscle power — you need the right tools, skills, and preparation.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you should know about moving a piano safely, why hiring professionals often makes sense, and how to plan for a smooth relocation.
Why Moving a Piano is Tricky?
Many people underestimate how challenging it is to move a piano. Here are some reasons why:
- Weight – Upright pianos can weigh between 200–400 kg, and grand pianos can go up to 600 kg or more.
- Size – Their bulky size makes them hard to carry through doorways, staircases, and hallways.
- Delicate Parts – Inside the piano, there are hundreds of strings, hammers, and keys. Even a small bump can affect its sound quality.
- Risk of Injury – Without the proper technique, moving such a heavy object can cause back injuries or accidents.
That’s why most experts recommend hiring professional piano movers in Melbourne who have the equipment and knowledge to handle the job.
Preparing for a Piano Move
Before you begin the move, preparation is key. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Measure Everything
- Measure your piano.
- Measure doorways, hallways, and staircases.
- Plan the exact route the piano will take.
This prevents surprises on moving day when you realize the piano won’t fit through a space.
2. Protect Your Piano
Wrap the piano with moving blankets or pads to avoid scratches and dents. Secure the covers with strong tape, but don’t let the tape touch the piano’s surface.
3. Gather the Right Equipment
At minimum, you will need:
- A piano trolley (dolly) with heavy-duty wheels.
- Straps for securing the piano.
- Moving blankets.
- A ramp if stairs are involved.
4. Clear the Path
Remove rugs, furniture, or other obstacles from the piano’s moving route. This reduces risks of tripping or damage.
How to Move an Upright Piano?
An upright piano is tall and heavy, but easier to move compared to a grand piano. Here’s a step-by-step outline:
- Secure the Lid and Keys – Close and lock the keyboard lid. If it doesn’t lock, wrap it securely to keep it from opening.
- Cover the Piano – Use thick moving blankets.
- Use a Dolly – Tilt the piano slightly (with several helpers) and slide the dolly underneath.
- Lift with Care – Always lift with legs, not your back. Communicate with your team to stay balanced.
- Move Slowly – Roll the piano to the moving truck carefully, especially on ramps.
- Secure in Truck – Place the piano against the back wall of the truck and strap it tightly.
How to Move a Grand Piano?
Grand pianos require more work. Here’s what typically happens:
- Remove the Legs and Pedals – Professional movers will carefully remove these parts to make transport easier.
- Wrap Each Part – Protect the piano body, legs, and pedals separately with blankets.
- Use a Piano Board – The main body of the piano is placed on a padded board and strapped down.
- Team Effort – It usually takes at least 3–4 trained movers to handle a grand piano.
Because of the complexity, grand piano moves in Melbourne are almost always done by specialists.
Moving a Piano in Melbourne: DIY vs Hiring Professionals
If you’re considering moving a piano yourself, think carefully. While DIY might save money, it comes with risks:
- You could damage the piano.
- You could hurt yourself or your helpers.
- Your home (walls, floors, and doorways) could be scratched or dented.
Professional piano movers in Melbourne bring:
- Proper equipment like piano boards and dollies.
- Experience in handling different types of pianos.
- Insurance coverage in case of accidents.
For most families and businesses, hiring professionals is the safest and smartest choice.
Costs of Moving a Piano in Melbourne
The cost can vary depending on:
- The type of piano (upright vs grand).
- Distance of the move.
- Number of stairs or tricky pathways.
- Whether special equipment is required.
On average:
- Local upright piano moves in Melbourne: $250–$400.
- Grand piano moves: $400–$800+, depending on complexity.
For an exact quote, it’s always best to contact a trusted moving company and provide details.
Tips for a Smooth Piano Move
- Book Movers Early – Good piano movers in Melbourne can get busy, so schedule in advance.
- Check Insurance – Make sure the moving company covers your piano in case of damage.
- Tune After the Move – Pianos often need tuning after relocation due to vibrations.
- Communicate Clearly – Tell movers about stairs, narrow doors, or parking restrictions before moving day.
Conclusion
Moving a piano in Melbourne requires more than strength. It demands planning, the right equipment, and careful handling. While some people may attempt it on their own, hiring professional piano movers ensures safety, efficiency, and peace of mind. Your piano isn’t just furniture — it’s a valuable instrument worth protecting.
Looking for professional piano movers in Melbourne?
Contact us today for safe, reliable, and affordable piano moving services. Let our experts handle the heavy lifting while you relax.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I move a piano without professionals?
Yes, but it’s risky. Pianos are heavy and fragile. Without proper tools and training, you may damage the piano or get injured.
2. How long does it take to move a piano in Melbourne?
Most local piano moves take 1–3 hours, depending on the size of the piano and the distance.
3. Do I need to tune my piano after moving?
Yes. Even with the most careful move, vibrations can affect the sound. A post-move tuning is recommended.
4. How much does it cost to move a grand piano in Melbourne?
It can cost between $400 and $800 or more, depending on distance and complexity.
5. Are piano movers insured?
Reputable piano moving companies in Melbourne provide insurance to cover accidental damage during the move.