Best Piano Movers Melbourne: What You Need to Know Before You Move That Piano

 If you've ever tried to move a piano, you already know—it’s no small job. These instruments weigh anywhere from 150 to over 400 kilograms, and they’re not built to be bounced down a flight of stairs or squeezed into a tight hallway.

That’s why hiring the best piano movers in Melbourne isn’t just smart—it’s necessary. At Jack Removals, we’ve moved upright pianos, baby grands, and even antique heirlooms across Melbourne suburbs safely and without damage.

In this blog, we’ll share what goes into a proper piano move, how to move a piano (if you're doing it yourself), and whether a pickup truck can really get the job done. We’ll also explain why it pays to go with pros like us.

Why Pianos Need Special Attention During Removals in Melbourne

Unlike most furniture, pianos are both heavy and delicate. Inside, there are thousands of moving parts, fine wood finishes, and tightly-tuned strings that don’t respond well to impact or movement.

When doing removals in Melbourne, many people assume a strong pair of hands and a dolly are enough. Unfortunately, that’s how pianos get scratched, strings broken, or keys thrown out of tune.

At Jack Removals, our piano moving process includes:

  • Protective blankets and shrink wrap

  • Custom dollies for stair or hallway navigation

  • Tail-lift trucks for safe loading

  • Strapping systems to keep the piano secure in transit

  • Trained movers who know where (and where not) to lift

This isn’t just about strength—it’s about technique. A piano needs to be supported evenly and handled with patience.

Case Study: Moving a Baby Grand from South Yarra to Carlton

In March 2025, we moved a baby grand piano for a music teacher relocating her studio from South Yarra to Carlton. The piano had to come down two flights of stairs in a narrow terrace house.

Our team of three trained movers, using a piano skid board and a powered stair climber, completed the job in just under 2 hours. The total cost included setup in the new space and tuning recommendations.

She later told us, “I couldn’t believe how smooth it went. I was dreading this move until I found Jack Removals.”

How to Move a Piano (The Right Way)

If you’re still considering moving a piano yourself, here’s what you need to know.

What You'll Need:

  • 3–4 strong people (at minimum)

  • Furniture straps

  • Moving blankets

  • A dolly (preferably with pneumatic wheels)

  • Tape and padding to protect corners

  • A truck with a ramp or tail lift

Steps:

  1. Measure everything first: Doorways, staircases, and the piano itself.

  2. Wrap it well: Use blankets and padding on all sides.

  3. Lift from the base: Never from the legs or pedals—they snap easily.

  4. Use the dolly: Keep it flat and balanced throughout.

  5. Go slow: Especially on stairs or ramps. Always have someone guiding.

Even with all that, things can go wrong. If you're not confident—or if it's an expensive or sentimental piano—do yourself a favour and book the best piano movers Melbourne has to offer.

Can You Move a Piano in a Pickup Truck?

Technically, yes. But should you? That’s another story.

Pickup trucks don’t have the enclosed protection or tail lifts that a moving truck does. Even if you manage to lift the piano into the bed, it’s still exposed to:

  • Rain or dust during transit

  • Movement that can shift the piano dangerously

  • Lack of secure tie-down points for large instruments

We’ve seen too many cases where someone tried to move a piano in a pickup and ended up with cracked casings, broken legs, or worse. Our advice? Use a covered truck designed for piano removals Melbourne, or let the pros handle it.

Why Jack Removals is the Best Choice for Piano Moving in Melbourne

We’re not just any removalist company. We’re locals who understand the mix of narrow laneways, steep driveways, and apartment lifts that come with removals in Melbourne.

Here’s what sets us apart as the best piano movers Melbourne offers:

  • Years of piano-specific experience

  • Trained, careful staff (no subcontractors)

  • Fully insured service

  • Transparent, flat pricing—no nasty surprises

  • Free advice and support before and after your move

We’ve handled everything from concert grands to digital uprights. Whether you're moving across the street or across town, we’ve got you covered.

Final Tips Before You Move That Piano

  • Let your movers know it’s a piano. Not all removalists are trained to move them.

  • Tune it after the move. Even a careful move can affect tuning.

  • Avoid moving it solo. It’s just not worth the risk, physically or financially.

  • Get a written quote. Make sure insurance and services are included.

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