This took some time, and even with the dolly, the men needed a break. It was lucky there were plenty of people around to relieve each other.

I was just glad I didn’t have a grand piano. Piano removal on this scale requires the experts. Most removal companies do not offer this service as it is specialized – and not that commonly needed, since grand pianos take up such a lot of floor space most house do not have room for them. Even a baby grand will require special help and equipment. The keys have to be locked down and they are moved on their backs, not the sides. A board is required to rest it on. Legs have to be removed and carefully padded and packed, and the whole unwieldy thing gently and slowly rolled along to the truck.

What not to do with piano removal

1. Do not drag the piano around on its castors – use a board or dolly – or if it’s small enough carry it, with sufficient manpower.

2. Never try to catch a falling piano. It will be damaged – but better that than you sustaining possible serious injury.

3. If stairs are involved, leave it to the professionals. And ensure there is plenty of room for them to jump out of the way if necessary.

4. Grand pianos of any size are much better left to the experts. They are very easily damaged, and clumsy to move. And they can weigh well over a ton.

5. Don’t forget to make sure the insurance cover is sufficient. If you are insured the piano removal will run smoothly – it you neglect this – something will go wrong (ref: Sod’s Law)

6. Don’t try to move your piano with too few people.

7. Don’t even think of moving a large grand piano if the exits are too small. The piano is moved on its end, not its side – so measure it – and the doorways.

Piano removal should not be undertaken lightly, but with forethought, patience and care (plus plenty of muscle power) it can be successfully achieved.