While it may appear more convenient and cheaper to handle the transportation of your personal items yourself without the added inconvenience of hiring a professional company, attempting to move a piano is not advised as a do-it-yourself endeavor.
Pianos are large, unwieldy, and fragile. The average cost of moving a piano in the United States is approximately $400, with some variation of around $100.
Moreover, the cost of hiring a piano mover may differ based on the geographical location, distance required for piano transportation, and the type of piano being moved, whether it is a full-sized concert grand, baby grand, upright, or spinet.
The following are the primary considerations that most piano moving companies use to determine their pricing.
Comparison of upright and grand pianos
Typically, the cost of moving an upright piano is lower because it is lighter and less cumbersome, necessitating less time and resources. The cost of moving can range from $150 to $1,000, depending on your location and whether the move is within the same area or a long distance.
The weight and size of grand pianos necessitate the use of additional resources, making their relocation more expensive. Moving a grand piano locally can range from $200 to $1,500, while long distance moves can cost up to $2,000 to $5,000 or even more.
Comparison between local and long Distance
The cost of piano moving services is often determined by the distance and location. The fees may differ based on the customer’s residence and the location of the moving company.
For instance, a rural town’s moving service will typically have lower fees compared to a company in a bustling city, particularly for a local move.
To find the most competitive long distance rates, it is advisable to compare the expenses of companies located at the starting and ending points of your move. In the case of an international or overseas relocation, a fixed rate ranging from $3,000 to $5,000 can be expected.
Additional factors that affect cost
Intricate Maneuvers
In extreme cases, such as using a crane to lift the piano through upper story windows, the company may charge an extra fee. These fees can range from approximately $5 to $10 per step or $40 to $100 per staircase if there are multiple levels.
Urgent Tasks
Typically, a last-minute booking for a move will result in additional charges. It is advisable to plan well in advance to secure the most favorable rate and ensure all necessary materials are ready on the moving day. Generally, moving companies will levy twice the initial rate for an urgent or eleventh-hour relocation.
Insurance for Relocating
One aspect to take into account when selecting a moving company is their insurance coverage. It may be wise to plan for extra insurance specifically for the move, depending on the company you choose.
Main Conclusion
While it is possible for you to do so, it is strongly advised against and poses a danger to both your own well-being and the condition of the piano. The reason for the specialization of professionals in this area is evident.
It is crucial to conduct thorough research beforehand in order to secure a trustworthy and reasonably priced piano moving service, guaranteeing the safe arrival of your instrument.
To get an idea of the prices in your locality or where you are headed, it is important to do a comparison.
Additionally, in case you have recently bought a piano and are transporting it to your home for the first time, the person you bought it from might be aware of a dependable moving service or may even offer to move it for you.
