How to Ship a Piano and Keyboard?

Digital Piano is a thriving market. Its market size reached $901.9 million in 2021-22 and is projected to soar to $1295.98 million by 2030. 

So, as a seller in this sector, you may have a frequent requirement to ship a piano and keyboard. 

However, piano shipping is no small feat. With the piano's massive size, considerable value, and over 10,000 moving parts, every step poses a risk. Protecting these special instruments requires expertise and caution. 

But who said it is impossible to ship a digital piano successfully? 

With the right approach and expert guidance, you can easily navigate piano shipping and safeguard them throughout their journey.

Meet the essential answers about shipping digital pianos in this informative post. Discover the expert techniques and guidelines to avoid damage and ensure a safe move for these expensive devices.

How to Ship a Piano and Keyboard? A Step-By-Step Guide

Firstly, while the average adult can lift portable keyboards, the weight of a console, upright, or grand presents a real physical challenge. Secondly, pianos, despite their size, are delicate. Careful handling is a must during piano shipping. Furthermore, given their high value, any damage can result in significant financial loss. 

Considering these factors, entrusting a professional piano shipping company is the wisest choice. It is especially advised against going the DIY route to ship an upright piano. The expertise of professional freight services ensures the secure shipping of this prized musical instrument.

Preparing for Shipment for Piano Shipping

Examining the piano and keyboard for travel is the first step to prepare them for shipping. Note any existing damage or issues; this information will be valuable for insurance.

1. Evaluating the Piano and Keyboard

Assess their size, weight, dimensions, and portability to identify suitable packaging and transportation methods. 

Portable pianos, for instance, are specifically designed for frequent transportation. With separate mobile bases, detachable music stands, and pedals, they are the more convenient to pack and ship. Whereas upright and grand ones, like the Kawai CA9x, are difficult to dismantle.

Moreover, many ground services for piano shipping have restrictions on size and weight — limiting the weight up to 68 kgs and length up to 2.7 metres. For a package larger than this, you need to use specialised freight services. 

2. Gathering Necessary Supplies and Equipment

Most shipping companies offer convenient packaging solutions. On providing the dimensions and weight of your instrument, they’ll supply you with the appropriate packaging materials and a specialised keyboard shipping box. 

Note that the packaging materials that carriers offer are best suited for optimal protection to ship a piano and keyboard. 

Some other essential equipment you’ll need are:

• Packaging material — bubble wrap, foam pads, packing peanuts, packing pillows, etc.

• Packing tape and straps

• Scissors or knife

• Measuring tape

• Foam corner protectors

Packing the Piano and Keyboard

To avoid potential malfunctions, it is crucial to pack your digital piano correctly. 

1. Disassembling If Necessary

To ship a digital piano with a console body requires an additional step — disassembling. You need to separate the keyboard from the console. And also, remove the components like the legs, pedals, and music stand. 

Leaving them attached poses risks, such as the component falling out or getting snapped off during transportation. 

Another common mistake to avoid when you ship an electric piano is leaving the pedal unit and power adapter connected during the packing process. Disconnect them to prevent any harm to the inputs and ensure proper functioning later. 

It’s always safe to follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper disassembly. However, we recommend seeking professional assistance if you're not sure about the procedure. 

2. Wrapping and Protecting Individual Components

Proper packaging of the piano keyboard is paramount, as carriers may not assume liability for any damages incurred during shipment. 

Pianos are delicate. Hence, you need to be extra careful when packing. Here’s how:

• Piano keys are most vulnerable to jostling or shifting. To protect them during a move, securely nestle blankets around the keyboard area to hold the keys in place. You can also place a blanket within the key lid and then shut the key lid. 

• Start off by wrapping up the keyboard with a generous amount of bubble wrap. Wrap at least three layers for maximum protection. Secure the wraps in place with packing tape crisscrossing in multiple directions.

• Next, wrap the power cables and loose parts separately. Then, place these components on top of the wrapped keyboard and cover them all with an extra layer.

• For added protection for upright or grand pianos, consider using foam corners. Place them on the corners of the fully wrapped piano before applying another layer of bubble wrap.

• Don’t have foam corners? Then create your own with bubble wrap. Roll up one layer to a 5-8 cm thickness, and secure it with tape to form a padded end. Repeat the process with the second layer. Finally, attach each end to the wrapped keyboard. 

Securing the Instruments for Transportation

1. Placing the Piano and Keyboard in the Shipping Box

Carefully slide the piano into the piano shipping box. To ensure a snug fit, line the sides and floor of the box with foam pads or packing peanuts. Once done, close the flap and secure it using tape. Give the closed box a gentle shake to ensure nothing moves inside.

2. Considering Climate Control Measures

Crafted from real wood, many musical instruments, including pianos and keyboards, are susceptible to damage in hot or cold climates. Particularly when you ship a piano or keyboard over long distances or through extreme temperature variations. Therefore, factoring in climate control measures during piano shipping is wise. 

Thankfully, PACK & SEND is well-versed in packing fragile items and temperature-controlled shipping. So rest assured that your piano or keyboard is safe from any detrimental temperature effects. 

3. Labelling the Containers with Handling Instructions

To ensure safe passage for piano shipping, paste "Fragile" and "This Side Up" stickers onto the outside of your box. 

If you don't have these stickers handy, mark your box with a thick marker. Mention clear handling instructions and indicate the correct orientation. Also, provide any specific handling instructions, if any. 

This simple step will ensure your package receives the necessary attention and care throughout its journey.

Choosing a Shipping Method

1. Determining the Most Suitable Shipping Option

We always recommend onboarding a professional to ship a piano and keyboard. 

• While a local piano mover in your city is apt for a shorter distance, opt for consolidated freight to get across a longer distance. Your shipment will be grouped with other shipments travelling in the same direction. Here, you pay only for the space your piano occupies on the truck.

• Standard parcel delivery is the most cost-efficient option to ship a keyboard or other smaller piano accessories. It’s ideal if you want affordable rates and the shipment is not urgent. 

• Road freight shipping is the preferred and safest method to ship an upright piano. Pallet shipping, van delivery, LTL and FTL are effective freight shipping solutions. 

• Tailored logistics solutions are the go-to if you have a very expensive or fragile piano to ship. They offer the fringe benefit of expert handling. But are generally pricier than generic shipping services. 

• Lastly, if the budget allows, white glove delivery services are your best bet for exquisite, high-end pianos. The premium services offer the highest level of care and protection.

2. Insurance and Liability Coverage

Piano shipping sometimes goes differently than planned. Shipment is often damaged or lost during transit. 

Hence, the last thing you want to do while shipping piano is neglecting to insure your piano. It leaves you vulnerable to financial risks that can be easily mitigated with the right shipping insurance.

An appropriate insurance policy safeguards the piano against damage or loss during transit, reassuring sellers and customers. 

Therefore, do check the coverage options provided by your chosen courier service. You can also buy it from third-party vendors at the time of shipment. 

Coordinating the Shipment

After selecting a shipping company, coordinate the logistics of your piano shipment. Use the company's online tools to determine the accurate shipping cost based on the dimensions you enter. 

Once you've paid the shipping charge, print and attach the provided shipping label to your package. Schedule a pickup that suits your availability. 

Communication is crucial—inform the carriers about special handling requirements or fragile areas needing extra care. Don't forget to mention any unique considerations or specific requirements.

Tracking and Monitoring the Shipment

Stay proactive by maintaining regular communication with the piano shipping company. Obtain the tracking number to monitor your shipment's progress online and promptly address any concerns with their support team. Stay informed about delays or schedule changes to ensure a transparent shipping process.

What is the Cost to Ship a Piano and Keyboard?

PACK & SEND offers domestic and international shipping solutions for a piano and keyboard at highly competitive prices. Click here to get a quick quote. 

Conclusion

To ship a piano and keyboard, you need careful planning, attention to detail, and professional assistance. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure your valued instruments' safe and secure transportation.

Remember, roping in a professional shipping company is always the best bet during piano shipping. 

At PACK & SEND, we understand your belongings' sentimental and monetary value. So trust us to handle your precious items with the respect they deserve. 

We go the extra mile to exceed clients' expectations, providing a secure and reliable solution for long-distance piano shipping. Whether you have a spinet or a concert grand piano, PACK & SEND is the trusted choice for a worry-free shipping experience.

As a shipping company experienced in fragile and valuable items, we understand the unique needs of the sellers and art community. We take pride in offering specialised services to cater to those needs. 

From antique furniture and sculptures to pianos of all sizes and weights, we go above and beyond to ensure safe transportation.

Our packing services and delivery experts are skilled in handling items of all sizes, from cherished vases to large electronics. We also specialise in smaller moves and professional furniture removals with utmost care and safety.

Get a quick quote now, and let us handle your piano shipping needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to ship a piano and keyboard?

• To ship a piano and keyboard, select a reputable piano shipping company with experience transporting delicate and valuable items. 

• Ensure the piano is securely packed for transport. 

• Schedule a pickup with the shipping company. You can opt for white-glove service for added care. 

• Finally, track your shipment. 

• Maintain open communication with the shipping company to address any concerns or updates along the way.

How much does it cost to ship a grand piano?

The average cost to move a grand piano ranges from $250 to $650 for local moves and $1,000 to $2,000 for long-distance moves.

However, the cost to ship a grand piano can vary depending on various factors such as:

• The shipping distance

• The size of the piano

• The type of shipping service, etc.

It is best to consult a professional delivery service for the exact cost of shipping a grand piano. They will provide a detailed quote based on your specific requirements, including any additional charges that may apply. 

How to pack a piano for shipping?

To pack a piano for shipping:

• Start by securing the keyboard lid and covering it with a protective layer. 

• Remove any removable parts and wrap them individually. 

• Use the moving blanket to protect the piano from damage. Ensure a tight packaging using straps. 

• Finally, use cardboard or wooden crates to create a sturdy shipping container. 

• Ensure the piano is well-padded within the container to prevent movement during transit.

 

Image Source: Reverb