Moving a piano requires specialized knowledge, equipment, and careful planning to protect both the instrument and the people involved in the move.
Before the Move
Measure your piano’s dimensions and weight to determine the necessary equipment and number of movers needed.
Clear a path from the piano to the moving truck, ensuring all doorways and hallways are wide enough.
Book professional piano movers at least 2-3 weeks in advance, especially during peak moving seasons.
Recommended Equipment
- Piano dolly or skid board
- Heavy-duty moving straps
- Piano padding and blankets
- Stair ramp (if needed)
- Work gloves
Cost Estimates for London Piano Moving
| Piano Type | Average Cost (£) |
|---|---|
| Upright Piano | 150-300 |
| Grand Piano | 350-800 |
Recommended Piano Movers in London
- Piano Transport London: 020 7127 6683
- London Piano Movers: 020 8877 9666
- G&R Removals: 020 7609 1900
Safety Tips
- Lock the piano lid and wrap it securely
- Remove all items from the top of the piano
- Protect the keys with a padded cover
- Secure the pedals with bubble wrap
After the Move
- Wait 24 hours before tuning to allow the piano to acclimate
- Check for any damage or scratches
- Book a professional tuner within 2-3 weeks
- Keep the piano away from direct sunlight and heating sources
Insurance coverage for piano moving typically costs between £50-150, depending on the value of your instrument.
Additional Services
- Piano storage: £30-50 per week
- Piano tuning: £80-120
- Dismantling/reassembly (for grand pianos): £200-400
Book your piano move during off-peak hours (10am-2pm) to avoid traffic delays and additional charges.
Questions to Ask Your Piano Mover
- Are you licensed and insured specifically for piano moving?
- How many years of experience do you have with piano moving?
- What type of equipment will you use?
- Can you provide references from recent piano moves?
Time Requirements
- Local moves: 2-4 hours
- Long-distance moves: 1-3 days
- Setup and preparation: 30-45 minutes
- Dismantling (grand pianos): 1-2 hours
Weather Considerations
Avoid moving pianos during rain or extreme temperatures. Schedule moves during moderate weather conditions to protect the instrument from humidity damage.
Temperature Guidelines
- Ideal temperature: 18-22°C
- Maximum humidity: 45-70%
- Minimum acclimatization time: 24 hours
Common Moving Mistakes to Avoid
- Using inexperienced movers to save money
- Forgetting to measure doorways and stairs
- Skipping insurance coverage
- Moving without proper equipment
- Rushing the acclimatization period
Conclusion
Professional piano moving requires careful planning, appropriate equipment, and experienced movers. The investment in professional services helps protect your valuable instrument and ensures its safe arrival at the new location. Always prioritize safety, obtain proper insurance, and allow sufficient time for both the move and post-move adjustments.
Final Checklist
- Confirm booking and insurance details
- Prepare access routes
- Document piano condition before moving
- Schedule tuning for after the move
- Keep all moving documentation
FAQs
- How much does it typically cost to move a piano in London?
Professional piano moving in London typically costs between £150-£400, depending on the type of piano, distance, accessibility, and whether stairs are involved. - Do I need specialist piano movers or can regular movers handle it?
You need specialist piano movers as they have proper equipment, insurance, and expertise to handle the delicate internal mechanisms and prevent damage to both the piano and property. - How far in advance should I book piano movers in London?
Book at least 2-3 weeks in advance, or 4-6 weeks during peak moving seasons (summer months and end/beginning of month). - What preparation is needed before moving a piano?
Clear a path, remove items from the piano, secure the lid, and ensure parking permits are arranged for the moving vehicle near both locations. - Is my piano insured during the moving process?
Professional piano movers in London should provide comprehensive insurance coverage, typically up to £50,000, but always verify the specific coverage details before booking. - Can a piano be moved in wet London weather?
Yes, but professional movers will use waterproof covers and take extra precautions to protect the piano from moisture and temperature changes. - How long does it take to move a piano in London?
The process typically takes 1-3 hours, depending on access, distance, and type of piano (upright vs grand piano). - Do I need to tune my piano after moving it?
Yes, wait 2-3 weeks after the move for the piano to acclimatize to its new environment, then have it professionally tuned. - Can a piano be moved up or down stairs in London properties?
Yes, professional movers use specialized equipment like piano skids, ramps, and stair climbers to safely navigate stairs, but this may incur additional charges. - What should I look for when choosing London piano movers?
Look for fully insured movers with specific piano moving experience, positive reviews, proper equipment, and membership in recognized moving associations like BAR (British Association of Removers).