It is certainly possible to move a piano without hiring movers, but it’s not recommended. Not only will you need at least four people to lift and maneuver the piano, but getting it around tight corners and down flights of stairs might not be possible without the help of movers. Plus, pianos are exceptionally heavy and bulky, which means you and any helping hands are at risk of injury, as well as an increased risk of damaging your piano. Ultimately, it’s always worth it to call in a professional piano mover.
Hiring professional movers is usually worth the investment. These moving pros have the expertise and experience to get the job done quickly and safely, saving you time and potentially avoiding damage to your belongings. Professionals are especially a good idea if you’re moving long distances or large, bulky items, like furniture, pianos, or vehicles. Pros will also know when you need moving permits based on where you live and whether or not the moving truck will block traffic.
Yes, you can very carefully lay down a grandfather clock to move it, but it requires a bit of prep work. Remember, all of your clock's components and mechanisms are delicate, and shifting them can cause serious damage. Before laying it down, you will need to remove these pieces, plus the weights and the pendulum.
The average cost to hire professional movers is approximately $1,700, but the total price can range from as low as $920 to over $12,000 depending on the move's complexity. For local moves, typically under 100 miles, costs generally fall between $920 and $2,530. Long-distance moves are more expensive, with prices ranging from $2,700 to $10,000 or more.
Several key factors influence the final cost:
Distance and Home Size: The mileage of the move and the size of your home.
Number of Movers: Hourly rates can range from $25 to $50 for one or two movers, increasing to $100 to $200 for a team of four or more.
Services: Additional services like packing, unpacking, and storage will add to the cost.
Specialty Items: Moving large or delicate items such as pianos, vehicles, or large aquariums incurs extra charges.
Timing and Access: The time of year, your specific moving date, and the ease of access to your home can affect rates.
Don’t forget to account for other potential costs like moving supplies and tipping your movers.
This depends on your specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for the most cost-effective way to ship furniture, a self-moving service that provides pods may be your best option. If cost isn’t an issue and you’re more concerned with the security of your items, you may want to hire a white-glove furniture delivery company with ironclad insurance policies to help.
The Edgeley, ND homeowners’ guide to professional moving service pianos
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Planning a relocation? Learn everything you need to know about piano moving, including average costs, preparation steps, and how to hire the right local pro.
Professional piano movers help ensure the safe, smooth transportation of your instrument. Before you hire, it’s important to check qualifications, review references, and get a contract in writing. Find out the steps for hiring a piano mover here.