Moving a piano on your own might seem like a way to save money but it’s usually not a good idea. Pianos are heavy, bulky and fragile so they can be tricky to handle. On average, it costs about $400 to move a piano in the U.S., but this can vary by about $100 either way.
Some companies might only charge $150 but if the move is long or complicated it could cost up to $2,000 or even $3,000. The cost varies because moving a piano safely requires specific skills and equipment. It also depends on the type of piano, where you’re moving it and the moving company’s rates.
Piano Moving Cost
|
National Average Cost |
$400 |
|
Highest Cost |
$5,000 |
| Lowest Cost |
$150 |
Key Points
- Moving a piano usually costs around $400 but this can vary significantly. Prices range from as low as $150 to as high as $5,000, depending on the piano’s type and the move’s distance.
- Moving a piano up or down stairs can increase the price. Movers might charge about $10 for each step and around $100 for each flight of stairs.
- It’s tempting to save money by hiring general movers but they might not have the necessary tools or skills for piano moving. Always check whether they specialize in pianos to ensure safe relocation.
How Much a Piano Mover Will Cost
The cost to move a piano depends on several factors including your location, the type of piano and the distance of the move. Here’s a breakdown:
- Upright Pianos: Generally cheaper to move due to their smaller size and weight upright pianos might cost between $150 to $1,000 to move. This range depends on whether the move is local or long-distance and your location.
- Grand Pianos: These are larger and heavier, needing more resources to move safely. Moving a grand piano locally can range from $200 to $1,500. For long-distance moves, the cost can jump to about $2,000 and can go up to $5,000 or more.
Local vs. Long Distance
The cost to move a piano can really depend on how far it needs to go and where you are located. If you’re in a small town, local moving companies usually charge less compared to those in big cities especially for short moves.
It’s a good idea to compare prices from movers at both the starting point and the destination to get the best deal on long-distance moves. For moves that go overseas or internationally, prices are typically set between $3,000 to $5,000.
Hourly Rates vs. Flat Rates
When hiring piano movers, you’ll often have the option between an hourly rate and a flat rate. Here’s how they differ:
Flat Rates: Many piano moving companies offer a flat rate which helps you know the cost upfront. This rate usually takes into account the type of piano, the distance it needs to travel and any complex maneuvers that might require additional tools or resources. Most companies have a set price list for different scenarios, making it easier for you to budget without surprises.
Hourly Rates: If your move is simple and expected to be quick, choosing an hourly rate might save you money. This works best if the moving company is efficient. Rates typically start at around $50 per hour. However, keep in mind that many movers require a minimum charge, often for about three hours, to cover the basic time it generally takes to move a piano safely.
Do some research and compare rates from different movers in your area to see which pricing model offers the best value for your specific situation.
Additional Cost Factors
When budgeting for a piano move, keep in mind that some aspects can increase the overall cost, whether you’re being charged by the hour or a flat rate. Here’s what might affect the price:
Complex Moves
Moving a piano isn’t always straightforward. If it involves climbing steep staircases, making tight turns or navigating tricky angles expect additional fees. For example, moving companies often charge around $5 to $10 for each step and between $40 to $100 for moving up or down multiple staircases. In extreme cases such as needing a crane to lift a piano through a window, the cost will be even higher.
These charges generally cover the extra time and effort required for these challenging moves and compensate for the increased risk of damage or injury.
Rush Jobs
Booking a move at the last minute usually costs more. To get the best price and ensure that all the necessary materials are ready for your move, it’s better to plan well in advance. Typically, moving companies charge twice their standard rate for emergency or last-minute moves.
Moving Insurance
It’s also important to think about insurance when moving a piano. Many moving companies provide insurance coverage for pianos valued up to $5,000. If your piano is worth more, you might need to purchase additional insurance to cover potential damages during the move.
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Can I Hire a General Moving Company to Move My Piano?
You can ask a regular moving company to handle your piano but it’s not always the best idea. Some companies might not want to take on the responsibility due to the risks. While others might offer to do it for less than what specialized piano movers charge, they may not have the right experience or equipment to move your piano safely.
Pianos are heavy and awkwardly shaped, making them difficult to move even over short distances like from one room to another. If you’re considering using a general mover, make sure you have all the necessary preparations and protections in place to avoid damaging the piano, its surroundings or hurting yourself.
If it’s your first time bringing a piano home, it’s a good idea to ask the seller for recommendations on professional piano movers. Sometimes, discussing this while you’re making the purchase can even help you secure a better deal on the moving costs.
When Should You Move a Piano?
Moving a piano is a big task due to its large size, heavy weight and sensitivity. Whether you’re moving to a new home, rearranging furniture or getting rid of an old piano, knowing how to move it properly is crucial.
Relocating
Pianos are delicate and require a lot of care during moves. When you’re moving to a new home, whether it’s nearby or far away, it’s best to use a professional piano moving company. These experts know how to pack, secure and transport pianos safely, ensuring there’s no damage or decrease in value.
Moving a Piano Between Rooms
Moving a piano within your own home can be tricky. Its heavy weight and delicate internal parts make even small moves risky if not done carefully. To keep your piano safe from damage when changing rooms, careful planning and precise execution are key.
Removing an Old Piano
Getting an old or large piano out of your house poses its own challenges. It’s wise to hire professionals, either movers who specialize in pianos or experienced piano technicians. Their expertise helps ensure the piano is removed safely, minimizing the risk of damage during transport.
How to Save Money When Moving a Piano
Moving a piano can get pricey but with some smart planning, you can cut down on costs. Here are a few tips to help you save money:
- Shop Around for Quotes: Reach out to various piano moving companies and compare their prices. This helps you find the most affordable Don’t forget to ask about any hidden charges that might come up.
- Consider DIY Carefully: Doing the move yourself might save money but it comes with risks. If you decide to go this route, make sure you have the proper equipment and plenty of help to prevent any damage to the piano or injuries.
- Check for Extra Costs: Before you hire movers, talk to them about any extra charges you might face like fees for moving the piano up stairs or using an elevator. Knowing these costs in advance can help you better manage your budget.
Bottom Line
While you might feel tempted to move a piano by yourself, it’s not recommended due to the risks involved to both your safety and the piano’s condition. Piano moving is a specialized task and professionals are trained to handle it safely.
To make sure your piano gets to its new home in great shape, take some time to research and find a trustworthy and affordable piano mover. Check out different prices in your area or at the destination. Also, if you’ve just bought a piano, ask the seller for recommendations—they often know reliable movers or might even arrange the move for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a piano mover to move my piano to a different room?
Whether you need a piano mover depends on the complexity of the move. If it’s a simple task, like moving the piano across the same floor, you might not need professional help but you should still have another person assist you and use protective materials like blankets or a piano dolly. However, if you need to move the piano to a different floor, hiring a moving company is recommended.
How much does piano insurance cost?
Moving companies usually provide basic insurance coverage for your piano up to around $5,000. If your piano is valued higher or you want more coverage, you can expect to pay an additional $15 for every $1,000 of value.
