Transporting a piano is one of the most challenging removal tasks, given the fragility and sheer size of this musical instrument.
However, by following a few basic guidelines and always trusting the job to professionals, you can complete the move without any worries — and without the instrument suffering any damage whatsoever.
Want to know how? In this guide we walk you through every step of the process.
Why piano transport is so demanding
When moving a piano, it is essential that you never push it abruptly, keeping it well protected against any potential impact.
It cannot be compared to moving ordinary furniture: a piano's size alone makes it exceptional, but it is its internal percussion mechanism that demands absolute care during transport.
An upright piano can weigh between 190 and 270 kilograms, while a grand piano ranges from 200 to 600 kilograms. They are also very large instruments. For instance, a wall piano can measure 1.5 metres wide and between 1.2 and 1.5 metres tall, while a grand piano can reach 2.5 metres in length.
Piano transport: steps to a successful move
Below are our key recommendations to ensure a smooth and successful transport.
Prepare the piano for transport
The first step when transporting a piano is to prepare the instrument properly. You will need to remove the exterior parts and pack them separately.
You must also take care of the internal components, as they are fragile and can easily be damaged. One important factor to bear in mind is the cold: it is advisable to carry out the transport outside of winter months.
Protect it against any mishaps
At all times, you must prevent the piano from suffering any knocks or scratches. To do this, specialist blankets or covers designed for the instrument can be used.
Another recommendation is not to place too much weight on the legs. Moving it on its own castors puts the instrument at risk from its own weight. The correct approach is to lift it for transport.
Transport it in a horizontal position
The piano must be kept horizontal at all times and must never be tilted. This protects the internal components that are critical to its proper functioning.
It is also essential to use a vehicle that is large enough and suited to the task.
Trust a professional team
To guarantee a successful transport, the best advice is to leave it in the hands of professionals. You can rely on specialist companies such as Horizont Atlantic, experts in piano transport in Tenerife.
An instrument of such value should never be subjected to the risks of a careless removal.
In short, transporting a piano can be extremely complicated without the right knowledge and experience. Protect it, handle it with care, and trust it to professionals so it arrives in perfect condition.
Frequently asked questions about piano transport in Tenerife
How much does it cost to transport a piano in Tenerife?
A local upright piano move in Tenerife costs between 200 and 400 €, depending on the floor, distance, and accessibility. A grand piano ranges from 350 to 700 €. Moving a piano to another island in the Canary Islands costs between 500 and 900 €. From mainland Spain: 700–1,500 € in a shared container. The final price depends heavily on the model and the accessibility of the origin and destination.
Do I need to detune the piano before transport?
There is no need to "detune" the piano (loosen the strings), but it is worth knowing that any piano transport causes some loss of tuning. After the move, wait 2 to 4 weeks — to allow the instrument to acclimatise to the new humidity and temperature — before calling a professional tuner. Tuning immediately after transport will likely require a follow-up tuning shortly afterwards.
Can a piano be carried up a narrow staircase, or does it need a lift?
Upright pianos (up to 250 kg) can be carried up a staircase by a professional team (4 operators, straps, and padding). Grand pianos (350–500 kg) require partial dismantling (legs, lyre) and an external crane if the staircase is too narrow. A prior technical visit is essential for a grand piano on a narrow staircase.
Is it safe to transport an antique or valuable piano?
Yes, with the right team and protocol. For antique pianos (especially Steinway, Bösendorfer, Bechstein instruments over 50 years old): arrange a prior valuation, declared-value insurance, specific packing with blankets and corner protectors, appropriate vehicle, and a slow, careful unloading process. If your piano is worth more than 15,000 €, consider a company that specialises in musical instrument transport.
Does Tenerife's climate affect the piano?
Yes. The high humidity of the north (60–80%) and the dryness of inland areas (<40%) affect the wood and the mechanism. After the move, consider using a dehumidifier or humidifier to maintain a stable humidity level (ideally 45–55%). Find out more about transporting instruments: transporting musical instruments.
