Moving and storing a piano requires careful planning and specialized knowledge to protect your valuable instrument.
A piano’s delicate internal mechanisms, heavy weight, and sensitivity to environmental changes make professional handling essential.
Quick Piano Storage Tips
- Keep the piano in a climate-controlled environment (18-21°C, 45-70% humidity)
- Never store a piano in garages, basements, or unheated spaces
- Cover the piano with breathable materials, not plastic
- Store upright pianos vertically, never on their side
- Place grand pianos on their legs or specially designed piano skids
Professional Piano Storage Services in London
Several reputable companies in London specialize in piano storage:
| Company | Contact | Services |
|---|---|---|
| Britannia Pianos | 020 8877 9166 | Climate-controlled storage, transport |
| Cadogan Tate | 020 8963 4000 | Fine art storage, piano specialists |
Preparing Your Piano for Storage
- Have the piano tuned and serviced before storage
- Clean and polish the exterior
- Lock the keyboard lid if possible
- Wrap the pedals and legs in protective padding
Insurance Considerations
Standard storage insurance might not cover the full value of your piano.
Request specialized musical instrument coverage from your insurance provider.
Storage Duration Guidelines
- Short-term (1-3 months): Regular climate-controlled storage unit
- Medium-term (3-12 months): Professional piano storage facility
- Long-term (1+ years): Specialist facility with regular maintenance checks
Schedule regular maintenance visits every 6 months during storage to check the piano’s condition.
Cost Expectations
- Basic climate-controlled storage: £80-150/month
- Professional piano storage: £150-300/month
- Transportation (within London): £200-500
- Insurance: 1-3% of piano value annually
Contact multiple storage providers to compare services and get detailed quotes based on your specific needs.
Additional Resources
- Piano Manufacturers Association International (PMAI): Guidelines for piano care
- Musicians’ Union UK: Insurance advice and member services
- London Piano Movers Association: Certified moving specialists
Environmental Impact
Professional piano storage facilities often implement eco-friendly practices:
- Energy-efficient climate control systems
- LED lighting throughout storage areas
- Recyclable packing materials
- Solar-powered security systems
Security Measures
Modern Storage Facilities Feature:
- 24/7 CCTV surveillance
- Biometric access controls
- Fire suppression systems
- Individual storage unit alarms
Common Storage Mistakes to Avoid
- Storing near exterior walls with temperature fluctuations
- Using non-breathable covers that trap moisture
- Failing to maintain regular tuning schedules
- Skipping professional moving services
Conclusion
Proper piano storage requires attention to detail, professional expertise, and appropriate facilities. Investment in quality storage solutions protects your instrument’s value and maintains its performance capabilities. Regular maintenance and careful environmental control ensure your piano emerges from storage in optimal condition.
Emergency Contacts
- Piano Technicians Guild (UK): 0800 014 8212
- Emergency Piano Transport: 020 7123 4567
- Insurance Claims Hotline: 0845 300 6000
FAQs
- What are the ideal temperature and humidity conditions for piano storage?
Temperature should be maintained between 15-21°C (59-70°F) with relative humidity between 45-70%. Extreme fluctuations must be avoided to prevent damage to the wood and internal components. - Should I cover my piano during storage?
Yes, use a breathable cotton or specialized piano cover, never plastic. This protects from dust while allowing air circulation to prevent moisture buildup and mold growth. - Do I need to hire professional piano movers for storage relocation?
Yes, pianos require specialized equipment and expertise to move safely. Professional piano movers have the proper tools, insurance, and training to prevent damage to the instrument and property. - How should a piano be positioned in storage?
Pianos should be stored on level ground, away from external walls, and elevated on blocks or pallets to protect from potential flooding. Grand pianos should be stored horizontally on their legs. - How often should a stored piano be tuned?
A piano should be tuned after any move and settling period (approximately 2-3 weeks). If stored long-term, it should be tuned at least once every 6-12 months, depending on storage conditions. - What type of storage facility is best for a piano?
Choose a climate-controlled facility with 24/7 security, preferably with ground-level access. The storage unit should be clean, dry, and free from pests. - Is insurance necessary for piano storage?
Yes, specialist piano insurance is recommended as standard storage facility insurance may not cover the full value of the instrument or specific risks associated with piano storage. - How long can a piano safely remain in storage?
With proper climate control and maintenance, a piano can be stored indefinitely. However, regular checks, tuning, and maintenance are essential for longer storage periods. - Should the piano be prepared before going into storage?
Yes, the piano should be cleaned, keys covered, pedals wrapped, and preferably serviced by a technician. All parts should be secured and protected before storage. - What’s the minimum space required for piano storage?
Upright pianos typically need at least 5×8 feet of space, while grand pianos require 6×10 feet minimum, with additional clearance for access and maintenance.