How much does it cost to move a piano in the US?

Transporting a beloved piano on your own is no easy feat; it requires manpower, skills, and the right equipment. However, engaging professional assistance can be a different kind of challenge due to the high expenses involved.

Thankfully, you have this guide to show you not only the typical cost to move a piano but also ways to make the process more affordable.

What is the average cost of moving a piano in the US?

What is the average price to move a piano in the US? The table below shows the typical numbers in different cities across the country.

What factors affect the costs of moving a piano?

Detailed view of an upright piano keyboard under soft lighting (Source: iStock)

Some of the major factors that influence piano moving prices are the distance involved, the number of movers needed, and the type and condition of the piano.

Distance of the move

The price to transport a piano locally is usually cheaper than the typical interstate piano moving costs since long-distance moves involve driving longer hours, consuming more fuel, and exerting more effort.

Movers and equipment needed

Piano relocations commonly call for a dolly, straps, a piano skid board, furniture blankets, and regular movers, which all add to the total cost. Meanwhile, other piano moves may also require the use of a crane and crane operators, which can incur additional expenses.

Type and condition of the piano

Another thing to know is that a piano’s size, weight, type, and condition can affect moving expenses. For instance, the usual grand piano moving cost will be much higher than the upright piano moving cost. The former is generally bigger, heavier, and more difficult to transport.

Access and logistics

Wrapped piano positioned near a doorway, showing moving preparation (Source: iStock)

The more difficult the transfer is, the higher the piano transport cost will be. This is why safely manoeuvering an upright piano through tight corners, staircases, windows, and other obstacles will probably be more expensive than moving a baby grand located on a building’s ground floor.

Logistics-wise, a regional move might entail higher toll, permit, and fuel costs versus a short-distance move.

Timing of the move

How much does it cost to have a piano moved during summer? Expect prices to be at their highest during this season due to the demand induced by the fair weather, school break, and people having more free time.

Insurance and liability

Insurance type is another factor that can affect the piano mover cost. While basic insurance coverage is typically included in moving charges, upgrading the protection or purchasing add-ons can incur additional costs.

Additional services

Piano maintenance work being performed as part of post-move service (Source: iStock)

The average piano moving cost also depends on any additional services to be performed. These can include tuning, disassembly and reassembly, as well as short-term storage.

What are some ways to save on piano moving?

To keep expenses within your budget, you can ask family or friends with piano-moving experience to help you. But if you’re hiring a moving company, here are other ways to keep costs relatively low:

• Don’t settle with the first moving specialist you see; compare prices and offerings to find the best option.

• Book a service provider a few weeks in advance.

• DIY some of the steps that you can do on your own, such as disassembling, reassembling, wrapping a protective sheet, or tuning.

What should you look for in piano movers?

Piano in foreground with movers and equipment in the background (Source: iStock)

Piano owners should take note of the following questions when looking for professional piano movers:

• Do they have experience in the proper handling and lifting of pianos in different settings?

• Do they have experience moving the kind of piano that you have?

• Do they have the right equipment to ensure a safe piano moving job?

• Do they have enough manpower to complete the task?

• Do they offer different insurance types?

• Do they provide additional services?

• Do they have excellent reviews and feedback from previous clients?

Get your piano moved with Airtasker

With Airtasker, it’s easy to look for a reliable professional piano mover. Simply create an account on our website or app to start the process.

Afterwards, you can begin posting a task with important details, such as your budget, the date of your move, and the kind of piano you own. Then, you can sit back and wait for moving experts to reach out to you. To help you choose the best pro for the job, you can view each provider’s client reviews and ratings on their profile.

If you have to move other household items as well, Airtasker also has a roster of furniture movers ready to help you.