Piano Moving Questions Answered by Real Experts:
If you are planning to move a piano and find yourself full of questions, you are not alone. Whether you are trying to decide between doing it yourself or hiring a professional, wondering how many movers it actually takes, or trying to avoid damage to your floors and fingers-we have heard it all. This guids tackles the most common questions people ask about piano moving, not with generic answers, but with clear, human advice based on real experience. If you care about your piano, your back, and your peace of mind, this is where you start.
Can I move an upright piano myself or with help? Or do I need professional movers?
Moving an upright piano yourself is possible but highly risky. These instruments often weigh between 300 to 500 pounds and their weight is not evenly distributed. Even with friends helping, without the right tools like piano dollies, lifting straps, and protective padding, the chances of injury or damage are high. You could hurt your back, scratch your floors, damage the piano’s internal components, or drop it altogether. Professional movers bring the right equipment and knowledge to move a piano efficiently while keeping you, your property, and the piano safe. What seems like saving money in the moment often leads to costly repairs later.
Moving out of my house and I have to move the piano. Any tips?
First, inform your moving company ahead of time that a piano is part of the move. Do not assume they will be prepared unless they are told. Next, clear a path from the piano to the exit, removing rugs, decor, or anything that could cause a trip hazard. Secure pets and keep children away from the moving area. If you are doing it yourself, make sure you have lifting straps, a strong dolly, and at least three experienced people. If stairs or tight turns are involved, it is not worth risking injury or damage. In those cases, hire a company that specializes in piano moving.
Why do I need to hire a professional piano mover?
Because a piano is not just heavy furniture. It is a delicate musical instrument with hundreds of internal parts that can be damaged by a single jolt. Its weight is awkwardly balanced and can be difficult to maneuver through hallways, doorways, or stairs. A professional piano mover understands these challenges and comes prepared with the right tools and experience. They are trained to secure, lift, and transport pianos without harming the structure or the surroundings. Most importantly, they are insured. If anything goes wrong, you are covered. That peace of mind alone is worth it.
Do you specialize in piano moving?
Yes. Any moving company that claims to move pianos should be able to explain how they do it, how often they do it, and what equipment they use. Specialization means they have experience with different types of pianos, including uprights, baby grands, and concert models. It also means they understand how to assess the environment, plan the move, and prevent damage at every step. If a company only moves pianos occasionally, be cautious. Piano moving requires skill, not just strength.
What equipment do you use for piano moving?
Professional piano movers use heavy duty padded blankets, stretch wrap, lifting straps, piano skids, wheeled dollies, and sometimes even ramps or hoists. They may also use protective boards and corner protectors for tight turns. The truck will have tie downs to keep the piano secure in transit. All of this equipment is designed specifically to reduce risk and protect the instrument. If a mover shows up with just manpower and a basic dolly, that is a red flag.
Are you licensed and insured?
A legitimate moving company should be fully licensed and insured. This protects both you and them. Licensing shows they meet provincial or municipal requirements to operate as a business. Insurance means that if something is damaged or someone is injured during the move, you are not financially responsible. Always ask for proof. A reputable mover will never hesitate to provide it.
How many people will be assigned to the job?
This depends on the piano and the layout of the home. A standard upright piano on a ground floor may need two to three movers. If the piano needs to go up or down stairs, around sharp corners, or over uneven surfaces, more people may be assigned to make the job safer and more controlled. The goal is not just to lift but to manage the move with minimal risk.
Have you moved this type of piano before?
Experience matters a lot. Each piano model has its own weight distribution, leg structure, and center of gravity. Movers should know how to handle uprights, grands, and antique pianos without improvising on the spot. Ask for examples. A mover who regularly handles pianos will be able to tell you how they prepared for past moves and what challenges they overcame.
Can you provide a written estimate or quote?
Always request a written quote that outlines what is included. This prevents surprise charges later. A detailed quote should include labor, equipment, travel distance, stair fees if any, and whether insurance is included. If a company gives only a verbal estimate or avoids writing it down, that is a sign to look elsewhere.
What is your process for protecting my piano during the move?
Protection begins before the move starts. Movers should wrap the piano in padded blankets, secure it with stretch wrap, and place it on a piano skid or dolly. Inside the truck, it should be tied down to prevent shifting. If the move involves stairs or awkward angles, ramps or extra staff may be used. The team should also take steps to protect your flooring, walls, and doorframes. Every part of the move should be planned for safety.
What is your policy on scheduling, delays, and cancellations?
Ask how much notice is required for booking, changing, or canceling a move. Life happens and your movers should have a clear policy. Some companies charge for last minute changes, others offer more flexibility. Find out how they communicate delays and what their backup plan is if a truck breaks down or staff calls in sick. Good movers plan for the unexpected.
Do you offer storage or additional services like tuning?
Some movers offer short term storage if you cannot move everything in one day. While tuning is usually done by a piano technician, good movers often partner with trusted professionals and can refer someone to you. If the piano needs to be stored temporarily, make sure the space is climate controlled to avoid warping or internal damage.
Should I check reviews and testimonials?
Yes. Read reviews on Google, Facebook, and trusted platforms. Look for feedback specifically about piano moves. Were customers happy with how the piano was handled? Did the movers show up on time? How did they respond if anything went wrong? A few bad reviews are normal, but consistent patterns matter. If most piano moving reviews are positive, you are likely in good hands.
Bonus Tip: Know the difference between hiring movers vs doing it yourself (DIY)
