Cost, Safety
&
What to Expect in 2026
Moving a piano is one of the most complex specialty moving services. Upright and grand pianos weigh between 300 and 1,200 lbs, are highly sensitive to impact, and require professional equipment and trained movers.
Below is a clear, practical guide to piano moving — costs, timing, risks, and how professionals handle it safely.
How Much Does It Cost to Move a Piano?
The average cost to move a piano ranges from $250 to $1,200, depending on the type of piano, distance, and access conditions.
Average Piano Moving Costs
Piano Type | Local Move | Long Distance |
|---|---|---|
Upright Piano | $250–450 | $600–1,200 |
Baby Grand | $350–650 | $800–1,500 |
Grand Piano | $600–1,000+ | $1,200–2,500+ |
Prices increase when stairs, tight hallways, or long carries are involved.
What Affects Piano Moving Cost?
Piano moving pricing depends on:
- piano size and weight
- stairs vs elevators
- narrow doorways or turns
- distance between locations
- floor type (hardwood, tile, carpet)
- outdoor obstacles or weather
- long-distance vs local transport
Example:
Moving a baby grand piano from a Chicago condo with stairs costs significantly more than a ground-floor suburban home.
How Long Does It Take to Move a Piano?
Upright piano:
1–2 hours
Baby grand:
2–3 hours
Grand piano (disassembly required):
3–4 hours
Long-distance piano moves usually include same-day pickup and scheduled delivery windows.
How Professional Piano Movers Protect Your Instrument
Professional piano movers use specialized equipment, including:
- piano skids and boards
- heavy-duty straps
- padded moving blankets
- dollies and ramps
- custom crating for long distance moves
For grand pianos, legs and pedals are removed, wrapped separately, and reassembled on delivery.
Local vs Long Distance Piano Moving
Local Piano Move | Long Distance Piano Move |
|---|---|
Hourly pricing | Flat or distance-based |
Same-day delivery | Multi-day transport |
Minimal packing | Full protective wrapping |
Lower risk | Higher risk without pros |
For interstate moves, professional piano movers are strongly recommended.
Is a Piano Insured During a Move?
Most piano movers include basic valuation coverage.
For valuable or antique pianos, full value protection is recommended.
Always confirm coverage details before moving day.
Piano moving is not a standard moving service — it requires experience, planning, and specialized tools. Whether moving locally or long distance, hiring professional piano movers reduces risk and protects the value of your instrument.
FAQ: Piano Moving
Answers to the most frequently asked questions
Technically yes, but without proper equipment and training, the risk of damage is high.
Yes — improper lifting or tipping can damage the soundboard, keys, or internal frame.
Yes, professional piano movers are trained to handle stairs safely.
Yes.
Pianos should be tuned 2–4 weeks after a move, once the instrument adjusts to temperature and humidity changes.
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