How do I move a piano?
Quick Answer
Hire specialty piano movers. An upright piano costs $200 to $600 to move locally and $500 to $2,000 for long distance. A grand piano costs $400 to $1,000 locally and $1,000 to $3,000+ for long distance. Never attempt to move a piano yourself - they weigh 300 to 1,200 pounds.
Pianos require specialized moving equipment and expertise. Here is what you need to know.
Piano types and weights: upright/spinet pianos weigh 300-500 pounds. Console and studio uprights weigh 400-600 pounds. Baby grand pianos weigh 500-700 pounds. Grand pianos weigh 700-1,200 pounds. These weights make pianos one of the heaviest and most awkward items in any home.
Why you need specialists: piano movers use specialized equipment including piano boards (padded platforms on wheels), heavy-duty straps and harnesses, custom padding and covers, ramps designed for piano weight, and climate-controlled transport for expensive instruments. They also know how to navigate stairs, tight corners, and doorways without damaging the instrument or the home.
Costs for local moves (under 50 miles): upright piano $200-$400, baby grand $300-$600, full grand $500-$1,000. Add $50-$100 per flight of stairs. Costs for long-distance moves: upright $500-$1,200, baby grand $800-$2,000, full grand $1,000-$3,000+.
After the move: pianos need to acclimate to their new environment for 2-4 weeks before tuning. Temperature and humidity changes during transport affect the tuning. Schedule a tuning 3-4 weeks after the move. Place the piano away from direct sunlight, heating vents, and exterior walls.
Finding piano movers: ask your local piano dealer or tuner for recommendations. Check AMSA (American Moving and Storage Association) for certified piano movers. Verify insurance coverage specifically for piano moves.