The bigger and bulkier the instrument is, the more difficult it will be to move. Now, that’s not to say that it is impossible but it will take some extra care. So, whether you’re moving a massive piano or smaller, more fragile musical instruments, these are the steps you’ll want to take to ensure your instruments arrive at your new humble abode in mint condition.
Take Measurements
The first step to moving instruments is to take measurements. Determining how large your instrument is, whether it’s the widest part of a tuba or a piano, will help you figure out the best course of action to get it to where it needs to be. Once you have the exact dimensions of your particular instruments, you must then take measurements of any hallways and doorways it’ll have to pass through.
Remove What You Can
Some instruments can be dissembled to a certain point, such as the piano legs or drum kits. It’s imperative that you complete this task prior to moving to ensure an effective and efficient process. The more you can disassemble the instrument, the easier it’ll be to move.
BMS Moving & Storage full-service moving packages include the disassembly and reassembly of large pieces, making it a great option when moving items such as pianos and drum kits.
Close and Secure
For the instruments that have moving parts, such as a lid over the keyboard, it’s crucial that you close and secure them. This will keep the lid closed and in place during the moving process. So, grab some stretchy packing plastic wrap and packing tape to complete this task prior to moving your instruments.
Use Proper Moving Equipment
Dollies, furniture blankets, straps, and ramps should all be used when loading, unloading and transporting your instruments. Though, it can be tempting to avoid using these items that often come in moving trucks for fear of seeing additional charges on your bill. Unfortunately, doing so can be detrimental to your moving experience, particularly when moving large pieces, and can even end up costing you more in the end. So, use proper moving equipment.
At BMS Moving & Storage, almost all of our packages include the use of moving equipment at no extra charge. This allows you to take full advantage of the equipment and proper moving techniques to ensure a safe move for your prized possessions.
Secure The Instrument in the Moving Truck
Despite your instrument being heavy enough that it barely moves when it’s being pushed let alone on its own, it’s absolutely imperative that you secure it in the moving truck. Doing so will give you peace of mind that any sudden bumps that arise will not put your musical instrument at risk. So, slide it to the back wall of the van and secure it with furniture placed in front of it.
Use Plywood on Carpet to Move Pianos
If you’re moving a large instrument, such as a piano on a carpet, some unique challenges will arise. It’s recommended to layer the carpet with flat plywood that’s large enough for all legs of the piano to sit on it. This will reduce the resistance, making it easier to move your piano throughout your home.
Get Help
The most important step to moving an instrument is to never do it on your own. Recruit your friends to help you with large, heavy pieces or hire professional movers for a safe moving experience.
If moving your large instruments seems too difficult of a task and one that you’re not willing to risk, leave this task to the pros who have perfected the talent of maneuvering difficult pieces through narrow spaces. At BMS Moving & Storage, we offer full-service moving packages that bring the utmost quality and care to your moving experience.