Moving a piano is no small task. It’s not just heavy, it’s delicate, valuable, and often sentimental. Whether it’s a grand, baby grand, or upright, pianos demand special attention. At Red Carpet Moving, we understand the risks and responsibilities involved in moving such an important piece. Our team has the experience, tools, and care needed to move your piano safely across Washington, DC.
Understand your piano’s size and structure
Every piano is built differently. A grand piano has a large, curved body and often needs to be partially disassembled before transport. That means removing the legs, pedals, and lid for easier and safer handling. An upright piano might be smaller, but it’s still tall and heavy, with delicate parts that can shift or break if not handled properly.
Before moving day, it’s important to know exactly what type of piano you have. This helps us plan for the right equipment and handling. Pianos with older wood or custom finishes may also need extra padding or protective wrapping. Whether your piano has been recently restored or has been in the family for generations, we take note of its specific needs before we start.
Make space before the move
One of the first steps in a successful move is checking the path your piano will take. That includes measuring doorways, hallways, and stairwells. Tight corners and narrow spaces can cause trouble, so we look for any areas that might slow the process or require extra care.
We also check the flooring to prevent scratches or damage during the move. Pianos are extremely heavy, and dragging or rolling them without the right equipment can ruin wood floors or carpets. Our movers use thick blankets, padding, and protective coverings on all surfaces to keep both your home and your piano in good condition.
In Washington, DC, the weather can be a concern, too. If it’s rainy or humid, we take extra precautions to protect the piano from moisture. We keep everything covered and dry from the moment it leaves your home until it arrives at its destination.
Hire movers with real piano experience
Piano moving isn’t a side job. It requires training, the right gear, and a team that knows what they’re doing. At Red Carpet Moving, we don’t guess. We’ve moved pianos in row houses, high-rise buildings, historic homes, and concert venues throughout the DC area. We’ve seen it all, and we’re ready for whatever your move throws at us.
Our trucks are climate-controlled to protect your piano’s materials from temperature and humidity swings. We use strong dollies, custom skids, and sturdy ramps to make sure your piano stays stable and level throughout the process. When we load it into the truck, we secure it tightly so it won’t move or tip during the ride.
Let the piano settle before tuning
Once your piano arrives in its new location, it’s best to give it some time to adjust. Moving from one room to another, or from one part of the city to another, can affect the internal parts due to changes in temperature or humidity.
We recommend waiting at least a week before tuning. This allows the wood and strings to settle naturally. Trying to tune too early can lead to more adjustments later. After it’s had time to settle, bring in a professional tuner to restore its sound.
If anything feels loose or off after the move, we’ll inspect it with you before we leave. Our team won’t consider the job finished until the piano is safely in place and you’re confident it’s in good shape.
Trust Red Carpet Moving for peace of mind
Moving a piano takes more than muscle. It takes planning, precision, and the right people. At Red Carpet Moving, we’ve built our reputation on handling valuable items with care, and pianos are no exception.
We’re based right here in Washington, DC, and we know how to manage local moves with professionalism and attention to detail. Get in touch with us today to schedule a piano move or request a free estimate. We’ll make sure your piano arrives safely, ready to play its next note.
