What should I look for when hiring piano movers?
When looking for a professional to move your piano, be sure to complete the following steps:
Verify their license and insurance: Professional piano movers should have an active license and insurance. Requirements depend on your local area so be sure to do your research.
Get several estimates: Compare rates and service offerings from multiple local piano movers.
Read their reviews: Pay close attention to red flags like poor communication or damage sustained during a move.
Find out if they have guarantees: They might offer guarantees of quality service (such as being on time and not damaging property).
Ask important questions: Find out what happens if your piano is damaged during the move and whether they have experience moving pianos similar to yours in size, weight and style.
For more tips, visit Thumbtack’s Smart Hiring page.
How much does it cost to hire piano movers?
The national average cost to hire piano movers ranges from around $194 to $448,* according to Thumbtack data.
Several factors might affect the cost of this move, including:
Piano type and size: Larger, heavier pianos may cost more to move, as do uniquely-shaped pianos (think: grand pianos).
Stairs and/or other obstacles: Moving from higher floors or navigating around many hallway corners may cost you.
Moving distance: The further the movers need to go, the more the move may cost.
Moving timeline: Same-day or short-notice moves might incur higher fees.
Additional services: Any disassembly, reassembly or tuning may add to the cost,
You might be able to save money on your piano move with these tips:
Compare quotes from multiple local piano movers
Avoid weekends and peak moving seasons
Clear pathways and measure doorways in advance to avoid obstacles
Schedule your move several weeks in advance if possible
Ask about any discounts offered
*Data on file at Thumbtack. For a personalized cost estimate, request a quote from a professional.
Why should I hire a piano mover instead of moving it myself?
For many people, hiring a professional piano mover can be worth the cost — especially considering how heavy and delicate these instruments can be.
Some of the biggest benefits of hiring professional piano movers include:
Expertise and experience: Experienced piano movers know how to handle them safely, which can help prevent damage to the instrument and your home.
Specialized equipment: They use tools like dollies, ramps and padded blankets to help ensure safe transport.
Reduced risk of injury: Most pianos are heavy and awkward to move, and many professionals are better equipped to do the job safely.
Efficiency: They can often complete the move in less time, ensuring minimal disruption to your day.
What can I expect when a pro arrives to move my piano?
In most cases, professional piano movers will take the following steps when moving a piano:
Assess the piano's type, size, and weight: The weight of a piano can range from around 500 to 1,200 pounds, depending on the type. Movers will also factor in the dimensions.
Investigate the route: Corners, staircases and narrow doors may present challenges. Piano movers will often examine the route to determine what requires minimal maneuvering.
Gather the right moving supplies: Pianos require sturdy supplies like moving dollies, skid boards, hand trucks, protective blankets and straps.
Protect your piano: Piano movers will typically remove any loose parts, wrapping and boxing them separately. Next, they'll likely secure the lid and wrap the entire piano in protective blankets to avoid scratches and dents.
Carefully move and load your piano: Movers typically secure the piano to a moving dolly or roller to distribute the weight evenly. Once lined up with the truck or trailer, they might utilize a ramp to roll it onto the vehicle slowly and secure it in place before transporting it to the new location.
Set the piano up in its new space: Once carefully unloaded, professional moves should place the piano away from direct light or airflow. You'll likely need to tune your piano after the move, so be sure to ask the movers if they offer this service as well.
What type of equipment is used to move a piano?
Moving a piano can require specialized equipment to prevent injury or damage. For example, pros typically use:
Piano dollies with heavy-duty casters to help move it smoothly across flat surfaces.
Piano skid boards with heavy-duty straps to keep it from tilting or lifting.
Hump straps to help control movement by acting as extensions of your arms. These are often used to move pianos up and down stairs.
Ramps and sliders to load the piano into moving trucks.
Ratchet straps to help secure the piano inside the moving truck.
Air sleds to help create easier maneuverability.
Proper gloves and back braces to help movers handle the weight.
Moving blankets to protect the piano against scratches.
Rather than locating and renting these specialty moving supplies, you can hire piano movers with the skill, equipment and experience to do the job right.
