Introduction to Moving a Baby Grand Piano
Relocating a baby grand piano requires a great deal of skill and patience, whether you're moving it across town or simply across the room. With an average weight between 500 and 600 pounds, a baby grand requires special handling to avoid injury or damage. We've compiled a comprehensive guide for moving a baby grand piano, including preparation, disassembly, transportation, and post-move care.
How to Move a Baby Grand Piano
Before lifting a finger—or a lid—it’s a good idea to research your options. Many people look up tutorials and tips for moving a baby grand themselves, especially for short or local moves. Others may explore hiring a moving company or contacting specialized piano movers. Whether you go the DIY route or opt to hire professionals, understanding the steps and equipment needed will help you make the safest and most cost-effective decision.
Is It Possible to Move a Baby Grand Piano Yourself?
Technically, yes. But should you? Probably not unless you're highly experienced, well-equipped, and have at least three strong helpers. Even then, there are serious risks. Grand pianos are delicate instruments with sensitive internal components and polished surfaces that can easily be damaged. Attempting to move a piano without the right tools and knowledge can cause costly damage—or worse, injury.
How Many People Does It Take to Move a Baby Grand Piano?
Most professional piano movers recommend using at least three to five people. The team should include at least one person who knows how to disassemble and reassemble the piano. Ideally, all helpers should be comfortable lifting heavy furniture and aware of proper lifting techniques.
Pre-Move Preparation
We recommend beginning by clearing a wide path through your home to move the piano through with ease. Prevent scratches on your floors by laying down protective coverings. You'll also want to measure the piano and doorways ahead of time to eliminate any surprises while moving it. Strong planning at the beginning will make all the difference!
Disassembling and Packing
To move the piano safely, the first step is disassembly:
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Remove the lid by unscrewing it from its hinges along the long side.
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Detach the music rack and key cover.
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Carefully take off each of the three legs, starting with the third leg (usually located near the curved end).
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Take off the lyre, which houses the pedals.
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Wrap the body of the piano in thick moving pads and secure them tightly with straps.
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Each leg and pedal should be wrapped individually to prevent scratches.
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Save all screws and small hardware in a labeled bag.
Tools and Equipment You’ll Need
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A four-wheel piano dolly
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Lifting straps
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Furniture sliders
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Moving blankets or thick moving pads
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Stretch wrap
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Screwdrivers and Allen wrenches
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A sturdy plank or ramp for loading
Moving and Transportation
Once disassembled and wrapped, the body of the piano should be gently lifted onto a dolly centered under its heaviest portion. Never use the piano's decorative wheels to roll it—they're not built to handle the weight. Use straps to keep the piano firmly in place while rolling. When loading into a truck, use a ramp and secure the piano upright against one side to prevent movement.
Tips for Moving a Baby Grand Across the Same Floor
Even if you're just moving a baby grand to another room, the same basic principles apply. You’ll still need to remove the legs and use thick pads to prevent floor damage. A dolly can help with rolling across smooth surfaces, but always avoid using the piano's original casters.
How to Protect the Piano During the Move
Cover every surface with moving blankets and secure them with stretch wrap. Pads should be used under straps to avoid damaging the finish. Secure the wrapped piano in the truck using heavy-duty straps on both sides.
How Much Does It Cost to Move a Baby Grand Piano?
Costs vary based on distance, complexity, and accessibility (like stairs or tight turns). For a local move, expect to pay between $250 and $600. Long-distance moves may cost more. At 3 Men Movers, we offer baby grand piano moving as an add-on service during your full household move—often saving you time and money.
Safety Precautions to Keep in Mind
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Never attempt to lift a grand piano by the legs or keyboard.
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Always lift with your legs, not your back.
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Make sure the dolly is centered under the piano.
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Secure all wrapped pieces in the truck.
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Use non-slip gloves and proper footwear.
Importance of Using Professional Piano Movers
Hiring professional piano movers gives you peace of mind. Experienced movers have the proper equipment, including piano boards, moving pads, straps, and dollies designed for the job. They’re also insured, meaning you’re covered in case of damage. At 3 Men Movers, our crews have experience with many pianos—including baby grands, uprights, and stage pianos.
What Makes Baby Grand Piano Moving Unique?
Baby grands differ from uprights in shape, size, and leg placement. They often feature more delicate construction and ornate wood finishes. Moving them requires more than muscle—it requires knowledge of how the parts fit together and how to protect them in transit.
Post-Move: Getting Your Piano Ready to Play
After your piano has arrived at its new home, don’t rush to play. Moving can throw off its tuning, especially if the temperature or humidity is different. Give it a few days to acclimate, then schedule a professional tuning. This helps restore its sound quality and ensures a better piano playing experience.
Should You Tune After Every Move?
Yes—if you plan to use the piano for music, it should be tuned after each move. Even subtle shifts can impact sound. If your baby grand is mainly decorative, tuning may not be necessary, but keeping it scratch-free is still a priority.
When to Call a Moving Company Instead of a Piano Specialist
If you’re moving your entire household along with the piano, hiring a full-service professional movers makes sense. At 3 Men Movers, we handle both with care, saving you time and the stress. Our expereinced moving crews arrive on-time with the proper moving equipmentwhile you just sit back and relax.
Final Thoughts
Moving a baby grand piano takes more than just muscle. It requires planning, the right tools, and a team that understands the instrument’s delicate construction. Hiring professional movers is the safest and most effective way to get your piano moved without damage.
Ready to Move Your Piano?
Let 3 Men Movers handle your piano with the care it deserves. Whether it's a baby grand, upright, or anything in between, we’ll make sure it arrives safely at its next destination. Contact us today for a free estimate!