How Much Do Piano Movers Cost in NYC? Key Takeaways
- Costs for piano moving in NYC can range between $200 and $1,000
- Imperial Movers offers hourly and flat-rate pricing, with transparent costs and no surprise fees
- The moving cost can be affected by the need to use stairs, distance, piano type, and building restrictions
- Hiring specialized piano movers ensures safety, compliance with NYC building rules, and protection against damage
- When hiring local piano movers, verify they have licensing, insurance, and needed equipment
Thinking of asking a friend with a van to help you move your piano to your new Brooklyn apartment?
Remembering the narrow, winding staircase you’ll need to conquer to take it up to the fifth floor quickly changes your mind, and you realize you’d better hire professional piano movers.
But how much do piano movers cost?
This guide will break down:
- Piano movers cost in NYC
- Factors affecting the price
- Why it’s important to hire specialized piano movers
- How to find affordable movers near you
Think piano moving has to cost a fortune? Not at Imperial Movers
How Much Do Piano Movers Cost in NYC?
Piano moving costs in NYC can vary depending on how big your piano is and how far you’re moving.
Depending on the moving company and area, they can range anywhere between $200 and $1,000.
Imperial Movers offers two pricing models: hourly rates and a flat rate.
Hourly Rates:
- $200 for a team of three professional movers
- $240 for a team of four professional movers
Flat Rate:
- $600 for comprehensive piano moving services
Both pricing models include:
- Expert disassembly and reassembly of your piano
- Use of specialized equipment
- Use of protective materials for your piano as well as your old and new home
- Insurance coverage
This dual pricing model allows you to choose the option that suits you best:
- Hourly pricing is recommended for straightforward relocations or when you need to move a piano only, without other items.
- Flat rates are a good option for more challenging scenarios and buildings; for example, you need to use stairs, there are building restrictions, and more.
Factors That Affect Piano Moving Cost
What determines the cost of your piano move?
Piano Type and Size
The bigger the piano, the more effort and coordination the process needs. For example,
- It’s more challenging to move a baby grand than an upright due to its size and shape.
- Moving a grand piano requires special equipment due to its weight, which can go over 1,200 lb.
Distance
- Relocating within the same neighborhood is cheaper than moving a piano across boroughs.
- Bigger distances increase costs due to extended travel time, fuel surcharges, parking restrictions, and loading delays.
Stairs and Elevators
- In buildings without elevators, the movers must use the stairs, each flight adding additional cost (some companies add $50–$100 per flight).
- When the elevator is too small to fit a piano, movers also need to use the stairs.
Disassembly or Crating
- Antique or high-end models need extra care, for example custom crating and partial disassembly. This can add $100–$300 to the base piano moving fee.
Hoisting or Special Equipment
- If the piano can’t fit through the building entrance or hallways, the crew must use a crane or pulley system to move it through the window. And this is expensive: another $500–$1,000 or more.
Insurance
- Movers specialized in piano moves typically carry liability coverage, which makes their services more expensive compared to general movers. Read more about why it’s important to hire piano movers and not national chains.
The cost for moving your piano may be higher if your building doesn’t have an elevator
Why You Need Specialized Piano Moving Services in NYC
A piano, with its intricate combination of thousands of moving parts, can serve as your source of income, a beloved hobby, a cherished gift, or an investment.
That’s why protecting it during a move is key.
Moving a piano in NYC is never a simple job. It entails various challenges, such as:
- Tight stairwells
- Narrow entries
- Traffic and loading zone restrictions
- Use of parking permits
- Limited access for large trucks on narrow streets
- Fragile interiors of historic buildings
Are you considering hiring general movers because their quote appeals to your limited budget? Think again.
Inexperienced movers can damage both your piano and your property.
Using dedicated piano movers will ensure:
- Safe handling of your musical instrument
- Disassembly and reassembly by trained professionals
- Use of specialized equipment for lifting and transportation
- Protection against property damage while navigating tight turns or stairs
- Insurance coverage
- Knowledge of building access rules, elevators, and COI requirements
Specialized piano moving crews will ensure safe transportation of your musical instrument
How To Find Affordable Piano Movers Near Me
Local piano movers are the best choice when moving in NYC, as they know the city’s landscape.
Get Multiple Quotes
- Ask for detailed quotes in writing.
- Stay away from companies that offer unrealistically low costs, as they may lack insurance or specialized equipment.
Ask About Piano Moving Experience
- Confirm the company has done multiple piano moves.
- Ask what type of training their crew has.
Verify Licensing and Insurance
- Ensure the moving company is registered with the Department of Transportation (DOT).
- Confirm that the movers you want to use can provide a valid Certificate of Insurance (COI) for your building.
Read Local Reviews
- Check platforms like Google, Yelp, and Trustpilot for NYC-specific reviews.
- Look for mentions of piano moving companies with high ratings.
Ask About Equipment and Crew Size
- Ensure the moving company uses tools like piano skids, straps, padding, and dollies.
- Verify that the crew for your move is sufficient; you’ll need at least three to four movers.
Need Piano Movers for Your Relocation? Call Imperial Movers
A trusted partner for NYC piano moves, Imperial Movers will ensure your musical instrument arrives safe and sound at your new address.
Our company provides:
- Hourly and flat-rate pricing with no hidden fees to fit your preferences
- Custom equipment for piano moving
- Experienced crews that have handled hundreds of piano moves
- Complete insurance compliance for all NYC properties
- Same-day availability for urgent moves
Worried about last-minute add-on fees? Imperial Movers offers transparent quotes
How Much Do Piano Movers Cost? FAQs
Didn’t find the answer you were looking for? Check our commonly asked questions section below.
Should I tip piano movers in NYC?
Tipping your moving crew is not mandatory, but they’ll appreciate your gesture as an acknowledgment of their efforts, especially if the move was challenging. Read how much you can tip movers in New York in our recent guide.
Can I move a piano myself to save money?
We don’t recommend moving a piano on your own, as this can lead to property and piano damage along with serious injuries. Professional piano movers will handle all the details to protect both your instrument and your health.
How long does it take to move a piano in NYC?
Moving a piano in NYC typically takes two to four hours. The time can differ depending on accessibility, building restrictions, and piano size.
What types of pianos require special moving considerations?
While all piano types need attention when moved, some will require additional care:
- Baby grands, grands, and concert grands often require disassembly, crating, and hoisting.
- Uprights need secure handling.
- Antique, high-value, or player pianos need extra care to prevent internal damage.
Not sure if flat or hourly pricing is right for you? Ask Imperial Movers
