Moving a piano is far different from any other type of move. Pianos are not just heavy and awkward—they’re also finely calibrated musical instruments with thousands of delicate parts that are easily damaged. If you’re a piano owner and you’re relocating to a new home, transferring your instrument to a performance venue, or even just moving it to a different room, understanding the true costs involved is essential for proper planning and budgeting.
Why Piano Moving Costs Vary So Much
How much does it cost to move a piano? It seems like a simple question, but there is no simple answer. That’s because piano moving costs depend on numerous factors, most importantly their type and size. Pianos can be smaller upright models weighing 300-500 pounds, but they can also be massive concert grand pianos weighing more than 1,200 pounds. Different types and sizes require different handling techniques, equipment, and sometimes even different-sized moving teams.
Beyond their size, pianos are highly valued by their owners. For some, owning a piano represents a lifelong dream and constant pleasure, no matter what its cost. For others, a piano represents a significant financial investment, with the average cost of a new upright piano being between $3,000-$10,000 and grand pianos ranging from $7,000 to over $150,000. Protecting this investment during a move requires the type of meticulous care and expertise that Joey’s Movers provides.
Understanding piano moving costs will help you budget accurately for your move and choose the right service level for your specific instrument and situation. With proper planning, you can avoid unexpected expenses and ensure your piano arrives safely at its destination.
Ready to move your piano safely and without stress or backache? Call (847) 674-7779 or request your free quote today to get started with Joey’s Movers!
Average Cost to Move a Piano
Local Piano Moves (Under 50 Miles)
For local moves within the same city or metropolitan area, piano moving costs typically fall within these ranges:
- Upright pianos (spinet, console, studio): $150-$500
- Baby grand pianos: $400-$800
- Grand pianos: $600-$1,200
These piano removal cost estimates assume relatively straightforward moves with good accessibility at both pickup and delivery locations. Additional factors like stairs, tight doorways, or other complications can increase the price.
Long-Distance Piano Moves
When moving a piano across state lines or the country, costs increase significantly:
- Upright pianos: $700-$1,200
- Baby grand pianos: $1,000-$2,000
- Grand pianos: $1,500-$2,500+
Long-distance piano moving costs are typically calculated based on a combination of weight, distance, and any special handling requirements. For cross-country moves exceeding 1,000 miles, expect prices to start at $2,000 and potentially exceed $3,500, especially if you’re moving a grand piano.
Specialty Piano Moving
Antique, historic, custom, or concert pianos generally require additional care that comes at an additional cost. When asking “How much does it cost to move a piano?” be sure to mention any details that may include special services so you get an accurate quote. Examples and additional costs include:
- Custom crating: $300-$800
- Climate-controlled transport: $200-$600
- Extra insurance for high-value instruments: Varies based on declared value
Factors That Affect Piano Moving Costs
There are several key factors involved in calculating piano moving costs. They include:
Type and Size of Piano
Each type of piano is available in different sizes and styles, and these elements significantly impact how much to move a piano:
- Upright pianos (smallest to largest):
- Spinet/console pianos (the smallest uprights): $150-$300
- Studio uprights: $250-$450
- Full-size uprights: $350-$500
- Grand pianos (based on length):
- Baby grand (4’8″-5’8″): $400-$800
- Medium grand (5’9″-6’2″): $600-$1,000
- Full/semi-concert grand (6’3″-7’6″): $800-$1,200
- Concert grand (over 9′): $1,200-$2,500+
Distance of the Move
The farther your piano needs to travel, the higher the cost will be:
- Within the same building: $100-$300
- Local move (under 50 miles): $150-$1,200 (depending on piano size)
- Regional move (50-500 miles): $500-$2,000
- Cross-country move (500+ miles): $1,000-$3,500+
Accessibility Challenges
Physical obstacles add to the complexity and cost of moving a piano:
- Stairs: $5-$10 per step (potentially higher for grand pianos)
- Tight doorways or hallways: $100-$300 additional
- Hoisting (when stairs aren’t an option): $500-$1,000
- Long carry distances: $1-$2 per foot beyond standard carry distance
Additional Services
Optional services that affect piano moving costs include:
- Disassembly/reassembly of grand pianos: $100-$300
- Custom crating for valuable instruments: $300-$800
- Piano tuning after delivery: $150-$300
- Storage (if needed between locations): $50-$150 per month
- Rush service: 10-30% premium on total cost
Insurance Coverage
Most professional piano movers include basic coverage in their quotes, but additional coverage options include:
- Standard valuation coverage: Typically included (60 cents per pound)
- Full value protection: Additional cost based on declared value
- Specialized instrument insurance: Variable pricing based on appraisal
Is It Worth It to Move a Piano?
When considering how much does it cost to move a piano, many people wonder if the expense is justified. The answer depends on several factors:
Financial vs. Sentimental Value
Many people own pianos that have been in their family for generations. The emotional significance can far outweigh the instrument’s market value. Similarly, professional musicians often feel a deep connection with their instruments that makes them irreplaceable. In these cases, the cost of the move is insignificant when compared to the loss they would feel if the piano were damaged as a result of using inexperienced movers.
Comparing Replacement Cost vs. Moving Cost
For newer or mass-produced pianos, comparing the current market value against moving costs can help determine if professional moving makes financial sense:
- Entry-level upright piano: $1,500-$3,000 used value
- Mid-range grand piano: $5,000-$15,000 used value
- High-end or concert grand: $15,000-$100,000+ used value
If your piano moving quote is more than 50% of the instrument’s current market value, it’s worth considering whether replacement might be more practical. This is especially true when it comes to moving lower-end instruments.
Even when moving costs approach replacement value, many owners choose to move their pianos. There are several reasons for this, including the fact that finding an identical replacement can be difficult, newer pianos often require “breaking in” periods before reaching optimal sound quality and choosing not to move a piano still leaves you with the question of what to do with it.
Emotional Considerations
When a piano holds significant sentimental value, whether because it’s a family heirloom or because it’s been a part of important life moments, emotional factors generally outweigh purely financial considerations.
What is the Cheapest Way to Move a Piano?
While professional piano moving services represent the safest option, budget-conscious consumers sometimes explore alternatives:
Renting Equipment and Doing It Yourself
Equipment needed:
- Piano dolly: $50-$100 rental
- Moving straps: $25-$50 rental
- Moving blankets: $10-$20 rental
- Truck rental: $50-$200 depending on distance
DIY piano moving risks:
- Personal injury (back strain, crushed fingers/toes)
- Property damage (floors, walls, doorways)
- Piano damage (external and internal mechanisms)
- Voiding manufacturer warranties
- Potential tuning issues
While DIY moving might save $100-$400 on the front end, potential repair costs from improper handling can quickly erase any savings. Most piano technicians strongly advise against moving pianos without professional assistance.
Hybrid Option: Labor-Only Movers
Some companies offer labor-only services where you provide the transportation and trained personnel handle the loading and unloading:
- Upright pianos: $100-$300
- Grand pianos: $200-$500
This approach reduces costs while still providing expertise for the most technically challenging parts of the move.
Professional Piano Moving Companies
Full-service professional piano movers provide the highest level of protection. They offer:
- Specialized equipment and vehicles
- Trained personnel with piano-specific experience
- Proper insurance coverage
- Typically includes basic reassembly and placement
What’s Included in Professional Piano Moving Services?
Understanding what’s included in piano moving services helps explain why piano moving costs are higher than standard furniture moving rates.
Pre-Move Assessment
Professional piano movers typically:
- Examine the piano for size and any special features or requirements related to the specific instrument
- Measure all doorways, hallways, and stairwells
- Identify potential obstacles and special requirements
- Determine appropriate equipment and team size
- Provide detailed written estimates
Disassembly (if necessary)
For grand pianos, proper disassembly includes:
- Removing and separately packaging the legs
- Securing the pedal lyre
- Properly supporting the soundboard
- Protecting the lid and music desk
Specialized Equipment
Professional piano movers use:
- Piano boards or skid boards
- Specialized piano dollies with pneumatic tires
- Piano tilters for navigating tight spaces
- Stair climbing equipment
- Custom-fit straps and harnesses
- Climate-controlled vehicles for long-distance moves
Transportation in Specialized Vehicles
Proper piano transport requires:
- Vehicles with air-ride or enhanced suspension
- Climate control for temperature and humidity
- Secure anchoring systems to prevent shifting
- Capacity for proper piano positioning (uprights travel on their feet; grands on their sides)
Reassembly & Placement
After arrival, services typically include:
- Reassembly of all components
- Precise placement according to your specifications
- Basic leveling and stability checks
How Much Does It Cost to Move a Piano in Specific Situations?
Moving a Piano to a Storage Unit
Storage-bound moves typically cost the same as standard local moves ($150-$1,200 depending on the piano type) plus additional considerations:
- Climate-controlled storage: Essential for piano preservation ($100-$300/month)
- Proper positioning: Pianos should be stored on special platforms rather than directly on concrete
- Periodic maintenance: Even in storage, pianos benefit from occasional tuning and humidity control
Moving a Piano Upstairs or Downstairs
Stairs significantly impact piano moving costs:
- First flight: Often included in base quote
- Additional flights: $5-$10 per step
- Spiral stairs: 25-50% premium due to complexity
- Curved staircases: 15-30% premium
Moving a Piano Within the Same House
Room-to-room moves within the same building typically range from:
- Upright pianos: $100-$250
- Grand pianos: $200-$400
Even short-distance moves require proper equipment and techniques to protect both the piano and your home.
How to Save Money on Piano Moving
While piano moving is never cheap, these strategies can help reduce costs:
Move During Off-Peak Seasons
Piano moving companies, like most movers, have busy and slow seasons. Moving a piano during the peak seasons of summer or the end of the month will result in paying the highest rates, while scheduling your move mid-month or during the off-peak seasons of fall or winter may result in savings of 10-20 percent.
Bundle Your Piano Move with Your Household Move
If you’re moving your entire household, your full-service movers may offer a 10-15% discount off of the standalone cost of moving the piano, but before exploring this option, make sure the company has specific piano moving expertise.
Prepare the Piano in Advance
Reducing the mover’s on-site time can lower costs, so clear all pathways, remove any obstacles, and handle simple preparations like securing the keyboard lid, and removing items stored on or in the piano.
Get Multiple Quotes
Piano moving prices vary significantly between companies, so get at least three detailed, written estimates, making sure you compare services included, not just the bottom-line price. Before choosing a professional piano mover, check their reviews and piano-specific experience and verify their insurance coverage details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth it to move a piano?
For instruments with significant monetary or sentimental value, professional piano moving is almost always worth the investment. The cost of losing the instrument or repairing damage from improper moving often exceeds the cost of hiring professionals.
How much does local piano moving cost?
Local piano moving typically costs $150-$500 for uprights and $400-$1,200 for grand pianos, with final pricing depending on piano size, accessibility factors, and additional services required.
What is the cheapest way to move a piano?
While DIY methods are technically the cheapest, they carry significant risks. The most affordable professional option is usually hiring labor-only help for loading and unloading while providing your own transportation.
How much does transporting a piano cost over long distances?
Long-distance piano transport typically ranges from $700-$2,500+, depending on piano size, distance traveled, and special handling requirements.
Final Advice
When asking “How much does it cost to move a piano?” the answer depends on numerous factors specific to your situation. However, professional piano moving services typically range from $150-$500 for local upright piano moves and $400-$1,200 for local grand piano moves, with long-distance moves costing considerably more.
While the cost may seem significant, professional piano moving is an investment in protecting your valuable instrument. The specialized equipment, trained personnel, and proper insurance provide confidence that your piano will arrive safely and continue to provide enjoyment for years to come.
For piano owners in the Chicagoland area, Joey’s Movers offers expert piano moving services with transparent pricing, comprehensive insurance coverage, and decades of experience handling all types of pianos. Our team understands the unique challenges of piano moving and takes pride in delivering instruments safely to their new homes.
Contact Joey’s Movers today at (847) 674-7779 or visit our website for a free online quote tailored to your specific piano moving needs.
