Moving a piano may seem like an easy task to some, but it is actually a complex and delicate process that requires skill, experience and specialized equipment. It’s not just about lifting and carrying the piano, it’s about protecting and securing it during transport to prevent possible damage.
In Benton d.o.o. we have over 30 years of experience moving pianos, but despite our vast experience, we still face new challenges with every move. Every piano and every movement is unique and we have to be ready for anything. Moving heavy, large and valuable instruments requires constant communication, coordination and attention to detail. We always plan ahead and are always ready for potential challenges.
Our team consists of physically fit, highly trained and experienced guys who can read each other’s minds and anticipate any problems that may arise during the move, and are also equipped to handle heavy objects and prevent injuries.
Weight and size
The size of a piano can be comparable to the size of a three-seater sofa or a bed, but a piano does not break down into smaller parts and weighs much more, as e.g. the three-seater weighs somewhere up to 130 kg.
The weight of a piano varies depending on the size and type of piano. On average, a standard piano weighs between 190 and 300 kg, while a grand piano can weigh between 270 and 600 kg.
The smallest piano is usually around 109 cm high, while the tallest piano can be as high as 152 cm. Smaller piano – A baby grand piano is usually around 149cm long, while a concert grand piano can be as long as 308cm.
The piano is moved in a natural position, where there is less room for maneuvering, the piano can also be moved on its side. The piano is turned on its side for transport, the legs and the lyre of the piano are removed.
We cannot disassemble a piano or a piano into smaller parts, but we can remove the covers and thus gain a few extra centimeters and a few kilograms less weight. However, it should be noted that removing the covers requires expertise and may damage the instrument, so it is recommended that this task be left to professionals.
Gadgets and devices
Pianoplan and transport carts are of great help when moving pianos, but often such solutions are not possible due to obstacles in modern architecture. If possible, then we check the transport options through the window or balcony. In extreme cases, a piano or piano is carried.
It would normally take 4 strong people to transport a 200 kg object, but this is often not possible due to narrow staircases, so the instrument is most often carried by 2. They help each other with belts, lifting straps, straps and, of course, protection for the instrument. Such a procedure is very demanding, the loads are high and there is usually not much room for maneuver.
Sometimes moving a piano through a doorway or staircase is difficult or even impossible due to the size and weight of the instrument. In such cases, it may be safer to move the instrument through a window or balcony using a truck lift.
When we need the help of a forklift when moving, we fasten the piano or piano to the “arm” of the forklift with a special fastening belt, which ensures that the piano is stable and safe during lifting. Our team will also take care of adequate protection of the window or balcony and the surroundings during the lift.
Many times customers offer to help with the moves to maybe save a few €, but moving a piano is a delicate task and it is extremely important that the team is trained to prevent any damage. Inexperienced individuals may damage the instrument or injure themselves or others. The task of moving a piano is always better left to the professionals and experienced like the Benton team. We have the necessary equipment and expertise to ensure that your piano is moved safely and without damage.
Safety
Safety when transporting a piano is crucial both for the safety of the piano and for the safety of our employees who handle it. This includes proper equipment and techniques for loading and unloading the piano and ensuring that the piano is properly secured during transport to prevent damage. In addition, it is necessary that the employees have suitable footwear while carrying out the move.
Sometimes it happens that the customer asks us to change into slippers or to put on disposable shoe covers – In order to ensure safety, employees are instructed to wear suitable footwear that provides adequate support and protection when performing their duties.
Disposable slippers and shoe covers do not provide the necessary support and stability for the feet, which can be dangerous when handling heavy and large objects such as pianos. They can also make it difficult to maintain proper posture and balance, increasing the risk of accidents. Additionally, disposable slippers and shoe covers can easily slip, which can further compromise the safety of our employees.
Floor and other furniture protection
Floor protection is usually not necessary when moving a piano, except in extreme cases. Therefore, do not protect the soil from our arrival. When moving, we use carts with rubber wheels, the pianoplan has tracks that do not damage the floor. Our employees will take care of the additional protection of the rest of the furniture. If you are worried about anything, please give us as much information as possible before the move, additional pictures will also help us assess the situation, and we can also do a preliminary inspection and check the options.
Transportation
Transporting a piano can significantly affect the tuning of the instrument. Changes in temperature and humidity during transport can cause the piano or piano to go out, which means you will have an additional cost with tuning.
To prevent this from happening, we at Benton d.o.o. have a specially adapted van that has controlled conditions in the cargo area. This means that the temperature inside the van is maintained at a consistent level to protect the instrument from any changes that could affect its tuning.
Our delivery vehicle has the option of tying down the load in the cargo area to secure the piano against movement during transport, and to additionally protect the instrument with cushions during transport.
In addition, the team is experienced and trained to properly handle pianos and secure them during transport to minimize the risk of damage or tuning problems.
Moving a piano, especially a grand piano, can be a challenging task that requires proper planning and equipment. It is important to remember that pianos are not only large and heavy, but also fragile and delicate instruments. Improper handling and movement can cause damage to the piano itself, other furniture and personal items, and even to people moving. To avoid damage, it is important to hire a professional company for moving pianos or pianos, such as Benton d.o.o.