What makes a piano fragile
The weight is one thing, the distribution another: most of it sits in the cast iron frame and the strings, so high up and towards the back. A piano therefore tips more easily than its mass suggests.
On top of that comes the action, with thousands of moving parts, and a case that takes knocks badly. A scratch in the finish can be repaired; a distorted action is considerably more work.
How we move it
We protect the instrument with blankets and straps, move it on the piano dolly and put enough people on the stairs, for an upright piano usually three to four, not two.
In the vehicle the piano is secured upright and braced against shifting. We drive with anticipation; braking manoeuvres and potholes are what actually damages instruments.
After the transport
A piano has to be tuned after a move, not because of the journey but because of the room climate. Temperature and humidity at the new address act on the soundboard and the strings.
Wait one to two weeks for the instrument to settle. Do not place it directly against an outside wall, next to a radiator or in direct sunlight.
How the piano transport runs
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Enquiry
You give us the instrument, the storey and the access at both addresses.
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Quote
We check the route, agree the insured value and name a fixed price.
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Transport
We secure it, move it on the piano dolly and drive with low vibration.
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Setting up
We place it where you want it. Have it tuned one to two weeks later.
Frequently asked questions
What does a piano transport in Lucerne cost?
The storey and the access at both addresses decide it, along with the route and whether a furniture lift is needed. Within the same municipality and on the ground floor it is considerably cheaper than four floors without a lift.
How many people come?
For an upright piano usually three to four, depending on the route. We do not economise here; too few people is the most common cause of damage.
Do I have to prepare the piano?
No. Just clear the route and take loose objects off the instrument. We handle everything else.
Do you move grand pianos as well?
Yes, see grand piano transport. There the legs and the lyre are removed and the body travels on the piano board.
