Tipping movers is not mandatory, and most professional companies do not expect it. However, it is a common way to show appreciation for their hard work and the care they take with your belongings and home. A standard tip is between 10% and 20% of your total bill, split among the crew, or about $10 per mover per hour, tipped individually. It's an especially good idea to tip if the movers work in difficult weather, handle specialty items like pianos or pool tables, provide extra packing services, or go above and beyond your expectations.
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.
Qualified piano movers will take several steps to protect your piano from damage during the move. First, they'll wrap the piano to protect its finish. Ideally, they'll wrap the piano in a specialized blanket that features a soft, padded interior and a tougher exterior.
After wrapping your piano, the movers will securely strap it to a dolly for safe transport to and from the moving truck. Once the piano is in the truck, movers might put the piano on a piece of plywood to help level it during the move, depending on the truck bed. They will then strap it in place so it doesn't shift around during the drive to your final destination.
The best way to find a reliable piano mover is to get a recommendation from a family member or friend. If that’s not possible, you can contact local piano movers and ask the following questions to find a reputable company:
How will you pack and prepare my piano for the move?
Do you offer a guarantee or moving insurance?
How many years of experience do you have?
Do I need to do any prep work before you arrive?
Are you licensed and insured?
In most cases, you don’t need to order food for movers. They will schedule breaks to eat throughout the day. However, you can provide drinks and snacks in an easy-to-access location for the movers to grab throughout the day.
The Mandaree, 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.
