Hi, I have to move to another city soon. Piano removals cost a fortune, but apparently it's very cheap by freight train. They say they can take a piano so long as it's under 200kg (440 lbs).

Other than digging up the specifications (I have an obscure piano), how does one weigh a piano?

Any ideas?

We need MUCH more information. Is the piano a spinet, console, upright grand (vertical) how tall or is it a grand, and if so how large. Lastly, what is the make. Some pianos can weigh considerably more than others depending on the manufacdturer.

Thanks

Many manufacturers have the specifications of their models, including the weight, on their website. However, 200 kg is not much for a piano, specially if it is packed (crated?) for rail transport.

Pick it up and step on a bathroom scale?

The usual way to weigh a piano is to weigh a truck, put the piano on the truck and weigh it again. Subtract the weight of the empty truck from the weight of the truck with the piano.

If you could supply some measurements and perhaps even photos, we might be able to estimate its weight. Or, if the railroad will weigh the piano, you could ask them how they will do it.

200kg? I think even a midrange upright will be heavier.

You might try putting a scale under each of the legs and add up the numbers. In theory you can use one scale and put it under one leg after the other. Maybe put a sturdy plate on the scale so that the piano does not sink through your scale

Give us the make, hieght and approximate age (or serial number) and one of us will come up with a close estimate.

To give you an idea, A large upright (Yamaha U3 weighs 517lbs/235kg)

OP: You haven't described your piano to us. Tell us the make/model and one of us may be able to find the factory info.

Don't know exactly, but I'm thinking my vintage Yamaha C7 was about 900 lbs... ouch!

I helped the movers and all I can say is that it was very heavy. Good thing I've been working out lately.

Rick