Expert Piano Removals in Swanage

At Astra Removals, we understand that a piano is not just an instrument; it's often a cherished possession that requires special care when moving. Our piano removals service in Swanage is tailored to ensure that your piano is transported safely and efficiently, whether you are moving within the same locality or relocating to a different area. We have the experience and equipment necessary to handle all types of pianos, from grand pianos to uprights.

Our team of professional movers is trained in the art of piano moving, utilizing specialized equipment such as piano dollies and straps to ensure a secure fit. We take every precaution to protect your piano from damage, covering it with blankets and securing it properly during transit. With our attention to detail and commitment to quality service, you can trust Astra Removals to handle your piano with the utmost respect it deserves.

Astra Removals was founded in 1986 as a specialist piano removal service, and piano moving remains at the heart of what we do. With four decades of experience, purpose-built equipment, and a team trained specifically in piano handling, we move instruments of all sizes safely and efficiently.

Piano Types We Move

• Upright pianos — Standard, overstrung, and compact models (typically 100-250 kg). Wrapped in quilted covers, moved on specialist piano skids with rubber wheels.
• Baby grand pianos — Legs carefully removed, lid secured, body wrapped and placed on a padded piano board for safe transport.
• Grand and concert grand pianos — Full disassembly of legs and pedal lyre, specialist wrapping, and transport on reinforced piano boards with hydraulic tail-lift loading.
• Digital and electric pianos — Safe disconnection, careful packing, and reassembly at destination. Stands disassembled and wrapped separately.

Our Specialist Equipment

Moving a piano is not a job for standard removal equipment. We use:

• Purpose-built piano skids with pneumatic tyres for smooth movement over thresholds and steps
• Heavy-duty ratchet straps rated for piano weights
• Quilted transit covers that protect the finish from scratches, chips, and moisture
• Reinforced piano boards for grand piano transport
• Hydraulic tail-lift vehicles — no manual lifting onto the truck
• Ramps and stair-climbing equipment for properties without ground-floor access
• Floor protection boards and mats to prevent damage to your property

How Piano Removal Works

Assessment — We'll ask about the piano type, where it's located (which floor, any stairs or tight turns), and where it's going. Photos are helpful. For particularly complex moves, we may visit in person.

Preparation — On the day, we protect your floors and doorways, then carefully wrap the piano. For grands, we remove the legs, pedal lyre, and music stand, wrapping each component individually.

Transport — The piano is secured inside our vehicle using multiple straps and padding. Our vehicles are fitted with air suspension to minimise vibration during transit.

Delivery — At the destination, we reverse the process, placing the piano exactly where you want it. Grand pianos are fully reassembled and checked.

Difficult Access? No Problem

We regularly move pianos in challenging situations:

• Narrow Victorian hallways and doorways
• Upper floors via staircases (internal and external)
• Basement and cellar access via steep steps
• Properties with gravel drives or uneven ground
• Schools, churches, concert halls, and recording studios

In rare cases where a piano cannot fit through doors or stairwells, we can arrange crane or hoist access through windows. We'll always discuss options with you before the move.

After Your Piano Arrives

We recommend waiting 2-3 weeks before having your piano tuned after a move. This allows the instrument to acclimatise to the temperature and humidity of its new environment. We can recommend trusted piano tuners in the Bournemouth area if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to move a piano?
Local upright piano moves in the Bournemouth area typically start from £150-£250. Grand pianos and longer distances cost more. We provide fixed-price quotes with no hidden fees.

Can you move a piano upstairs?
Yes. Our team regularly moves pianos between floors. We assess the staircase width, turns, and headroom before the move and use specialist stair-climbing equipment where needed.

Is my piano insured during the move?
Basic transit cover is available as a £50 add-on for piano moves. For valuable instruments we strongly recommend enhanced cover priced against your declared value — let us know the value when you book and we'll quote it as a separate line item.

Do you store pianos?
Yes. We offer climate-controlled storage for pianos, ideal if there's a gap between moves or during home renovations. Storage is available on flexible terms with no long-term commitment.