How to Move an Upright Piano: Simple Steps to Save Your Back

I’m Joaquin Trapero, owner of North Removals, and I’ve been in the Australian moving industry for over two decades. In that time, I’ve moved almost everything, and let me tell you, moving an upright piano is a different kind of challenge – which is why I’m sharing my guide on how to move an upright piano the right way. With a bit of planning and know-how, you can protect both your piano and your back.

In the following sections, I’ll walk you through everything – from the must-have gear to the step-by-step game plan for moving your upright piano safely. My goal is to make this task as easy as possible for you, so by the end, you’ll feel confident tackling it yourself. Think of it like having a mate in the moving business sharing tried-and-true tips. Ready to get started? 

With careful planning, attention to detail, and following tips from other guides like “How to Move a Washing Machine“and “Where to donate Furniture in Melbourne“, you can protect both your piano and your back, making the moving day stress-free.Let’s do this together.

Essential Equipment for Moving an Upright Piano

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Move an Upright Piano

Step 1: Prepare Your Upright Piano Moving Route

• Measure all doorways, hallways, and staircases to confirm the piano will fit.
• Clear the path of furniture, rugs, and any other potential obstacles.
• Confirm where each helper should stand—one in front, one (or more) behind, especially when going up or down ramps.

Step 2: Wrap and Secure the Piano

1. Close and lock or secure the lid over the keys if possible.
2. Wrap the piano with bubble wrap, especially around corners and edges.
3. Cover everything with moving blankets, secured with tape or straps to protect the finish.

Step 3: Lift Your Upright Piano onto the Dolly

• Wear work gloves for a safe grip.
• Bend your knees and keep your back straight—avoid sudden movements (similar techniques can also help when moving a fridge upstairs).
• If you have a lifting belt, fasten it for extra back support.
• With one person on each end, tilt the piano slightly to one side.
• Have your partner slide the dolly underneath while the piano is tilted.
• Gently lower the piano back down onto the dolly, ensuring it remains upright and centered.

Tip: For extra stability, keep the weight evenly distributed and the piano firmly balanced on the dolly. Communicate clearly—count “1, 2, 3, lift!” so everyone moves at the same time.

Step 4: Move the Piano to the Truck

• Slowly wheel the piano through your pre-cleared path.
• Avoid sudden jerks or turns to prevent it from tipping.
• Keep it upright at all times to avoid internal damage.
• Guide from the front and behind: One person steers, the other helps stabilise.
• When you reach the truck, use a ramp for safe loading:

• One person guides from the front (inside the truck or up the ramp), and another pushes/supports from behind.
• If possible, have additional helpers ready to assist inside the truck.

Step 5: Load and Secure the Piano in the Truck

• Position the piano against a wall inside the truck (front or side).
• Cover the piano again with blankets for extra protection.
• Secure it firmly with ratchet straps to prevent any shifting during transit.
• Double-check all fastenings before driving off.

Step 6: Unload and Position the Upright Piano at the Destination

• Reverse the loading steps carefully: use the ramp to unload.
• Move the piano slowly on the dolly to its new location, staying mindful of corners and doorways.
• Once in place, gently remove it from the dolly, unwrap the blankets and bubble wrap, and set it down carefully.
• Avoid sudden dropping or twisting that could stress the piano’s legs or internal components.

How to Lift a Piano With Just Two People

Execute the Tilt-and-Slide Method

1. One person tilts the piano slightly.
2. The other slides the dolly underneath.
3. Gently lower the piano onto the dolly; secure it immediately with straps.

Know Your Limits

If it ever feels too heavy or unstable, stop. It’s safer to call local apartment removalists than to risk injury or damage.

Important Safety Tips for Moving an Upright Piano

Always lift with your legs, not your back.

Keep communication clear and constant—agree on who guides and who pushes.

Take frequent breaks—fatigue leads to mistakes.

Use a lifting belt if you have one, especially for heavier pianos.

Never attempt stairs or large steps without adequate help and equipment.

Avoid tilting the piano more than necessary—the internal components are sensitive.

After the Move: Piano Care and Tuning

Let the piano settle in its new environment for a few days before tuning.

Keep it away from direct sunlight, heaters, or vents that could affect its tuning stability.

Assess for any external damage; if you suspect internal damage, call a piano technician.

Having Trouble Moving Your Piano? Trust the Specialists

At the end of the day, moving an upright piano successfully comes down to preparation, technique, and knowing when to ask for help. From gathering the right equipment to carefully navigating doorways and stairs, each step plays a part in a smooth piano relocation. Remember to lift with your legs, keep the piano balanced, and communicate clearly with your helpers. Do all that, and you’ll protect both the piano and yourself.

If you’re facing a challenging move—whether it’s an upright piano, moving house with dogs, or relocating into your first apartment—you’re not alone. I once moved an upright piano out of an old Victorian terrace in Melbourne – narrow hallways and tight corners galore. My mate and I had to take the front door off its hinges to fit the piano through. It took all our planning and strength, but we manoeuvred it without a scratch. No two piano moves are the same, but that day proved that the right approach always wins.

Just remember, you’re not alone in this. If at any point it feels like too much to handle solo, I’m always happy to help. At North Removals, we are the best rated removalist in Melbourne and we handle upright piano moves every week. So if you’d rather let the pros step in, feel free to book with North Removals. My team and I will make sure your piano gets to its new home safe and sound.