Moving a piano isn’t like carrying a couch. It’s heavier, fussier, and frankly, a little dramatic — the instrument, not you. If you’re a homeowner in Salt Lake City staring at a towering upright or a glossy grand that needs to cross a foyer, choosing the right piano moving equipment can mean the difference between a smooth day and a story you’ll cringe about for years. Here’s how to pick gear that protects the piano, your home, and your nerves.
Contents
- 1 Why the right gear actually matters (more than you might think)
- 2 Know your piano: size, shape, and what those numbers mean
- 3 Essential tools — the stuff the pros won’t leave home without
- 4 Specialized gear for weird spaces (narrow stairs, tight corners, and other fun things)
- 5 Safety gear for people and places
- 6 Rent vs. buy — which makes more sense for homeowners?
- 7 Common mistakes — and how to avoid becoming one of those stories
- 8 Final thoughts — practical, human, and a little local
Why the right gear actually matters (more than you might think)
The piano is unforgiving. One wrong tilt, one missed strap, and you’ve got scratched varnish, warped soundboards, or worse — structural damage. The right tools distribute weight, control momentum, and keep pressure off fragile parts. They also protect your floors, doorways, and sanity.
Here’s the thing: moving a piano isn’t just heavy-lifting. It’s problem-solving. You’re managing weight, balance, friction, and distance all at once. That’s why pros use specific gear — and why you should too, whether you’re supervising or rolling up your sleeves.
Know your piano: size, shape, and what those numbers mean
Not all pianos are created equal. Before you choose equipment, you’ve got to know what you’re moving.
Upright pianos
Uprights usually weigh between 300 and 600 pounds. They’re tall and top-heavy, so you need tools that stabilize vertical weight and protect the front panel and keys.
Baby grands and grands
Grands range from about 500 to well over 1,000 pounds. The shape makes tilting and turning tricky. Legs, pedals, and the lid need extra protection; some movers remove legs and use specialized skid boards.
Digital pianos and keyboards
These are lighter, but still worth treating carefully. Covers, padded blankets, and rolling cases often do the trick — but don’t assume “light” means “easy.”
Knowing the weight and dimensions helps you pick straps rated for the load, the right dolly, and whether you need extra hands or mechanical help.
Essential tools — the stuff the pros won’t leave home without
Let me explain the basic toolkit. These are staples for a safe move.
- Piano skid board (moving board) — A heavy-duty platform that keeps the piano level and offers attachment points for straps. Hundreds of pounds sit on it; treat it like a foundation.
- 4-wheel piano dolly — For uprights, gives mobility and stability. Make sure the dolly has a good brake and load rating matching your piano.
- Piano straps and lifting harnesses — Wide, rated straps that prevent the instrument from tipping forward or sliding off the board. They’re not the same as rope.
- Moving blankets and padding — Protects finish and delicate components. Use plenty; it’s cheap insurance.
- Furniture sliders / floor protection — Felt pads or plastic sliders for hardwood or tile; runners for long hallways.
You’ll notice a trend: redundancy. Use more straps than you think you need. Wrap more blankets. Protect twice.
Specialized gear for weird spaces (narrow stairs, tight corners, and other fun things)
Some moves are straightforward. Others are a puzzle with moving parts. For those, bring out the specialty items.
Stair climbers and powered dollies — These machines can move heavy uprights or smaller grands up and down stairs with fewer people. They save backs and time, but they’re noisy and need experienced operators.
Appliance ramps — Great for loading into a truck; they reduce sudden jolts and make a slippery truck deck less scary. Use one rated for the weight you’re handling.
Skid straps and toe straps — These loop under the piano and secure it to the skid board; they’re different from shoulder straps and built for heavy-tension holds.
Leg cups and block systems — For grands, you’ll often remove the legs and protective block systems keep the body from contacting the floor directly during transport.
A mild contradiction: the fancier the tool, the simpler the move can be — but only if you know how to use it. Don’t rent a stair climber and wing it. Read the manual or call a pro.
Safety gear for people and places
Gear isn’t just for the piano. It’s for you.
Work gloves with grip reduce slippage and protect hands. They’re basic but vital.
Steel-toe boots — Not glamorous, but you’ll be glad for them if a foot gets pinned.
Back braces and lifting belts — These can help posture under load, though they’re no substitute for proper lifting technique.
Door jamb protectors and corner guards prevent gouges in your home. Trust me — covering the threshold is cheaper than repairing it.
Safety also means planning: scout the path, measure doorways, and clear obstacles beforehand. You’ll avoid surprises, and you’ll move faster.
Rent vs. buy — which makes more sense for homeowners?
Most homeowners only move a piano every few years, so renting often wins. But sometimes buying a staple tool makes sense — especially if you’re planning multiple moves or home renovations.
| Consideration | Rent | Buy |
|---|---|---|
| Cost upfront | Low | High |
| Frequency of use | Good for one-time or occasional moves | Better if you’ll use it repeatedly |
| Storage | No long-term storage needed | Requires space |
Renting gives you access to powered equipment and specialty items without long-term commitment. Buying is worth it when you’re a remodeler, landlord, or someone who moves pianos semi-regularly.
Common mistakes — and how to avoid becoming one of those stories
People underestimate weight and overestimate doorways. They assume friends can handle it. They skip straps. Here’s how to not be that person.
Don’t guess the weight. Look up the model or ask a piano technician. If unsure, hire pros — it’s cheaper than a repair bill or lawsuit.
Measure everything. Frames, door widths, stair turns. A piano won’t squeeze through because you’re optimistic.
Plan for weather. Snow, rain, or mud can change surfaces from slick to hazardous. Cover the piano and use runners for flooring protection.
Over-prepare. More padding, more straps, more hands. Slight repetition here: when you think you’re ready, add one more strap. Seriously.
Final thoughts — practical, human, and a little local
If you’re in Salt Lake City, the seasons matter. Winter moves mean salt, cold metal, and slippery ramps. Summer can bake varnish during a long truck stop. Timing, temp control, and sensible gear choices make a big difference.
Honestly, picking the right piano moving equipment is half logistics and half respect: respect for the instrument, and respect for your home. You can do a lot yourself with the right prep, but there’s no shame in calling professionals — especially when a cherished instrument’s on the line.
Ready to move a piano without the drama? Call Utah Piano Movers at 801-396-7323 or Request a Free Quote. We’ll walk you through what gear you need, whether it’s a simple upright across a room or a grand over a staircase.
