How Do Piano Moving Rates Vary?

Piano moving rates can have a significant impact on the cost of the move, and they can vary considerably from home to home. The market for this type of move is highly active, however, and some companies do nothing but transport these instruments. For many people, they are the most precious, most valuable items they own. Depending on the make, age and construction, these instruments can vary in value from a few hundred dollars to nearly a million dollars. They can also range in weight from 400 or so pounds for an upright model to around 1,400 pounds for a grand model. With so many factors to consider, it is imperative that the owner makes sure they are working with the right people. Otherwise, the consequences can be devastating.

What are typical piano moving rates?

The cost will depend on a few factors, including the size of the instrument, distance of the move, difficulty of the move, required manpower and requirement of any special equipment.

Owners should expect to pay at least a couple hundred dollars for an easy move that involves a lighter, upright model. If an owner needs to carry a grand model down multiple flights of stairs and transport it a long distance, they may spend up to $2,000 to get it to its destination. Before the day of the move, the company will send a representative to the home to get an idea of how difficult the job will be. After taking into account any stairs, tight spaces or any other obstacles, the representative will determine how many people will be necessary and the required equipment. In general, a company will charge for any stairs and any awkward spaces.

Reputable companies have a variety of piano skids, ramps, pads, slings and other items to make the move easier. With this equipment, only two or three people will be needed to handle the job. However, if the only way to get the instrument out is through a window, a special crane will be necessary. This will increase piano moving rates significantly.

Why should owners only work with reputable moving companies?

Of course, the more skilled and experienced a moving company, the more likely it will get the instrument to its destination intact and on time. Just as important, though, is the fact that reliable services have insurance. If the company does not have insurance, then the instrument will only be covered for about $2 per pound, at the maximum. In most cases, this is barely a fraction of the instrument’s true worth. An owner should ask for a Bill of Lading before agreeing to any move as this is the easiest way to confirm that the company has insurance.

Moving these instruments is also a risky, physically demanding endeavor, so it’s also important for a company to have workers’ compensation insurance. Without it, the homeowner will be responsible for any injuries that occur.

It may seem like a daunting, expensive task moving a piano but as any owner knows, it is well worth it.