What is piano moving?
Piano moving is a specialty that protects both a delicate, expensive instrument and the people and property around it. A piano's enormous weight is unevenly distributed, making it dangerous to move without the right equipment and technique. From upright spinets to nine-foot concert grands, professional piano movers bring skid boards, dollies, padding, and the muscle to do it safely.
What to expect
Movers begin by assessing the instrument's size and the path in and out of both locations, including doorways, stairs, and tight corners. Grand pianos are partially disassembled—legs, lyre, and lid removed—and strapped on their side to a padded piano board. The crew protects floors and walls, navigates obstacles carefully, and reassembles everything at the destination. Because pianos are sensitive to climate, plan to have it tuned a few weeks after the move once it acclimates.
How to compare carriers
Choose movers who specialize in pianos rather than general crews, and confirm they own proper equipment like piano boards, skids, and stair-climbing dollies. Verify they carry full-value insurance adequate for your instrument, ask about their experience with your specific piano type, and request references. A good piano mover will also recommend a qualified technician for post-move tuning.
Typical cost range
Local moves run roughly $150–$350 for an upright, $250–$500 for a baby grand, $400–$800 for a grand, and $600–$1,200 for a concert grand. Long-distance piano transport typically ranges from $400 to $1,500 or more depending on size, distance, and access challenges like stairs.
Types of piano moving moves
Upright piano
300–500 lbs
Baby grand piano
500–700 lbs
Grand piano
700–1,200 lbs
Concert grand
1,200+ lbs
Digital piano and keyboard
Electronic components requiring care
Player piano
Complex internal mechanisms
What does it cost?
| Move Type / Distance | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Upright local | $150–$350 |
| Baby grand local | $250–$500 |
| Grand local | $400–$800 |
| Concert grand local | $600–$1,200 |
| Any type long-distance | $400–$1,500+ |
Note: Prices are estimates. Actual costs vary based on specific distance, timeline, and carrier availability. Request a quote for accurate pricing.
What to look for in a piano moving carrier
- Piano-specific equipment (skid boards, piano dollies, padded straps)
- Grand piano disassembly and reassembly experience
- Climate awareness during transport
- Stair and elevator navigation experience
- Post-move tuning recommendations and network
Frequently Asked Questions
How long after moving should I tune my piano?
Wait at least 2-3 weeks. The piano needs time to acclimate to the new temperature and humidity of your home before tuning will be effective.
Can any mover move a piano?
No. General movers often lack the specific equipment (like piano skids) and the expertise to safely dismantle and transport a piano without damaging the instrument or your floors.
Do piano movers disassemble grands?
Yes, it is required. The lid, pedal lyre, and legs must be removed, and the piano is strapped to a specialized piano board on its side for transport.
Is a piano covered by standard moving insurance?
Standard valuation (60 cents per pound) will not cover the cost of a piano. You must purchase full-value replacement coverage or use a specialized carrier with proper limits.
How do I prepare a piano for moving?
Clear the path to the door, close and lock the keyboard lid if possible, and remove any sheet music or accessories. The movers will handle the padding and wrapping.
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