The Delicate Art of Moving Your Piano
Moving piano service is a specialized transportation option that focuses exclusively on safely relocating pianos of all types. Unlike general movers, piano specialists have the training, equipment, and expertise to handle these valuable instruments.
Quick Guide to Piano Moving Services:
| Service Feature | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Average Cost | $350-$2,500 depending on piano type and distance |
| Who Should Hire | Anyone moving a piano locally or long-distance |
| Equipment Used | Piano boards, 4-wheel dollies, climate-controlled trucks |
| Insurance | Specialized coverage for high-value instruments |
| Preparation Needed | Clear pathways, remove obstacles, measure doorways |
| After-Move Care | Piano should be tuned 2-4 weeks after delivery |
Pianos are among the heaviest, most delicate items in any home. A small upright weighs around 400 pounds, while concert grands can exceed 1,000 pounds. Beyond their weight, pianos contain thousands of precisely calibrated moving parts that can be damaged by improper handling.
The emotional and financial value of your piano deserves professional care. Whether it’s a family heirloom passed through generations or a significant investment in your musical journey, the right moving service ensures your instrument arrives safely.
I’m Mina Georgalas, owner of Bernard Movers, where our professional piano moving teams have safely transported thousands of pianos throughout Chicago and across 45 states, using specialized equipment and techniques refined through our 50 years of moving piano service experience.
Moving piano service vocab to learn:
– how to disassemble an upright piano for moving
– how to make a piano moving dolly
– upright piano moving cost
Understanding Moving Piano Service
When we talk about a moving piano service, we’re not just referring to regular movers who occasionally handle pianos. We’re talking about specialists who dedicate themselves to safely transporting these magnificent instruments. At Bernard Movers, our piano crews are trained exclusively for this delicate art – whether you own a petite spinet or a majestic concert grand.
Unlike standard moving trucks, our vehicles feature climate-controlled interiors with air-ride suspension systems that minimize vibration during transit. This protection is crucial because pianos contain thousands of precisely calibrated wooden parts that can be affected by temperature changes and rough handling.
“Small vertical pianos weigh around 400 lbs, medium size grands can weigh twice that, and large grands are in excess of 1,000 lbs,” shares Matt McClellen, a piano technician with over 20 years of experience. “The weight alone makes specialized equipment essential, but it’s the delicate internal mechanisms that truly require expert handling.”
Our moving piano service teams know that a Steinway requires different handling than a Yamaha or Kawai. This manufacturer-specific knowledge isn’t something you’ll find with general movers, but it makes all the difference in preventing damage during transit.
Why a Moving Piano Service Beats DIY
I’ve heard countless stories from customers who tried moving their pianos themselves before calling us. One customer told me, “We made it three feet before realizing we were in over our heads. Your team made it look easy with equipment we didn’t even know existed!”
The risks of DIY piano moving are substantial. First, there’s the danger of serious personal injury. When you’re dealing with an instrument that weighs 400-1,000 pounds, one misstep on stairs or through a doorway can lead to disaster.
Beyond personal safety, your piano itself is at risk. Those thousands of wooden, felt, and metal components inside can be permanently damaged by improper handling. The soundboard can crack, the cast iron plate can break, and the action mechanism can be knocked out of alignment. As one of our movers with 45 years of experience often says, “We’re the ones who get called to repair the damage household movers do.”
Core Equipment Every Moving Piano Service Uses
At Bernard Movers, we’ve invested in specialized tools that make piano moving safer and more efficient:
Custom piano boards and skids distribute weight evenly while providing secure attachment points. Four-wheel piano dollies with non-marking rubber wheels allow us to steer tight corners with precision. We secure everything with industrial-grade E-track strapping systems that prevent any shifting during transit.
Your piano’s beautiful finish deserves protection too, which is why we use specialized piano padding – thick, quilted covers designed specifically for these instruments. And those dangerous moments of loading and unloading? Our hydraulic lift gates eliminate manual lifting, reducing risk to both our team and your piano.
The combination of proper equipment and experienced handlers means we can safely steer obstacles that would be impossible with standard moving equipment. That grand piano can indeed fit through your doorway and up your staircase – when you have the right team handling it.
What Makes Professional Piano Movers Different From Household Movers
When it comes to moving your piano, the difference between general household movers and specialized piano movers isn’t just a small detail—it’s everything. Think about it this way: would you ask a painter to fix your car’s transmission? Or trust a plumber to perform Lasik eye surgery on your eyes? Probably not! This same principle applies to moving your precious instrument.
At Bernard Movers, we’ve seen the aftermath when general movers attempt to handle pianos. The difference is clear when you compare side by side:
| Aspect | General Movers | Specialized Piano Movers |
|---|---|---|
| Training | General moving techniques | Piano-specific handling and disassembly |
| Equipment | Standard moving blankets and dollies | Piano boards, specialized dollies, climate control |
| Insurance | Limited coverage for instruments | Specialized piano valuation coverage |
| Knowledge | Basic understanding of heavy items | Manufacturer-specific expertise |
| Experience | Occasional piano moves | Exclusive focus on pianos |
| Post-move service | None | Tuning referrals and placement advice |
A professional moving piano service doesn’t just know how to move heavy things—they understand the soul of your instrument. They recognize that a Steinway grand has different disassembly requirements than a Yamaha upright. This isn’t knowledge you pick up moving couches and dining tables.
“Each piano manufacturer uses unique methods for leg and lyre attachment,” one of our veteran piano technicians explained to me recently. “Using the wrong bolts or techniques can cause irreversible damage that affects both the piano’s appearance and its beautiful sound quality.”
Our teams at Bernard Movers are trained in the specific requirements of all major piano brands. We’re also properly registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, and you can verify our safety record through the FMCSA company snapshot database for complete peace of mind.
Specialized Training & Certifications
The best moving piano service professionals don’t just learn on the job—they seek out specialized knowledge and certifications. Many have connections to the Piano Technicians Guild (PTG) and similar organizations that provide specialized training.
This training goes deep into piano mechanics and construction, teaching movers to understand the internal workings of different piano types. They learn manufacturer-specific disassembly techniques—the correct procedures for each piano brand, not just a one-size-fits-all approach.
At Bernard Movers, many of our team members actually have backgrounds in music themselves. This gives them a deeper appreciation for your instrument—they don’t just see a heavy object, but a precious vessel of musical expression that deserves the utmost care.
We’ve also built relationships with piano tuners and technicians across the country, allowing us to recommend proper post-move care wherever your piano’s journey ends. After all, our relationship with your piano doesn’t end when we set it down in its new home.
Real-World Techniques for Each Piano Type
When we send our moving piano service team to your home, they arrive with specific plans based on your exact piano model:
For spinets and consoles (those smaller uprights under 44″ tall), we use specialized upright piano dollies that cradle these deceptively heavy instruments while navigating tight spaces. These compact pianos may look small, but they still require expert handling.
With larger studio and full uprights (45-60″ tall), our teams employ stronger dollies and careful balancing techniques. The taller center of gravity makes these challenging on stairs, so we use specialized straps and grip methods perfected over thousands of moves.
Baby grand pianos require a complete change for moving. We carefully remove the legs, pedal assembly (lyre), and sometimes the music desk. Then we place the piano on its side on a specialized grand piano board—a process that takes experience and precision.
The largest full and concert grands follow similar procedures but require more muscle and heavier equipment. These 1,000+ pound giants need teams of 3-4 specialized movers working in perfect coordination.
After decades of experience at Bernard Movers, we’ve refined our approach for each piano type. When our team arrives at your door, they’ll have exactly the right equipment and technique for your specific instrument—whether it’s a modest spinet or a magnificent concert grand.
Cost & Pricing Factors for a Moving Piano Service
Let’s talk money – because when it comes to moving your beloved piano, understanding costs upfront saves both headaches and surprises later.
The price tag for a professional moving piano service typically falls between $350 and $2,500. Why such a wide range? It’s all about your specific situation. For instance, moving a Sohmer upright piano just 25 miles with three exterior steps at each location might run around $350, while that concert grand going cross-country could reach the higher end of the spectrum.
Your final bill depends on several key factors. First, piano type matters enormously – uprights are generally less expensive to move than grands because they don’t require the same level of disassembly. A small spinet might cost $350-500 locally, while that gorgeous concert grand could run $700-1,200 for the same trip.
Distance is a major price driver too. Staying local (under 50 miles)? Expect to pay between $350-700. Heading across multiple states? That’s when prices climb toward $2,500 or beyond, depending on your piano’s size and the specific journey.
Those stairs in your home aren’t just a workout – they’re also a budget factor! Each flight typically adds $40-100 to your total. Other access challenges like narrow doorways, tight hallways, or lift entrances also increase complexity and cost.
Need that piano moved quickly or on a weekend? Timing and scheduling often come with premium charges. Similarly, valuation coverage for high-value instruments will increase costs, but the peace of mind is worth every penny when moving your cherished Steinway.
Here at Bernard Movers, we believe in transparency. We conduct thorough pre-move assessments to spot potential challenges and provide accurate quotes with zero hidden fees. We’ve seen it all – from grand pianos being hoisted through second-story windows to uprights navigating spiral staircases.
For cross-country moves, it’s worth noting the significant price difference between options. Adding a piano to a general household move might cost $300-500, while hiring dedicated piano specialists like us typically runs $1,500-2,500 for the same distance. That premium reflects our specialized equipment, training, and exclusive focus on your piano’s safety.
Many professional piano movers maintain memberships in industry organizations for added credibility. You can verify credentials through associations like the PTG directory.
Local vs. Long-Distance Estimates
When it comes to moving piano service pricing, local and long-distance moves follow different structures entirely.
For local moves under 50 miles, expect base rates starting around $350-500 for uprights and $500-700 for grand pianos. Many local moves wrap up in 2-4 hours, though complex situations might trigger hourly rates of $100-150. My team recently moved a baby grand from a downtown Chicago high-rise to a suburban home – navigating elevators, tight doorways, and a flight of stairs – all completed safely in just under 3 hours.
Long-distance piano transport operates differently. Rather than hourly rates, we calculate based on mileage bands (like 50-300 miles, 300-1000 miles, or 1000+ miles). You’ll also see fuel surcharges that fluctuate with gas prices, and transit insurance becomes even more critical when your piano is traveling hundreds or thousands of miles.
Another key difference? Long-distance moves typically offer delivery windows rather than specific appointment times. Your piano might be sharing transportation with other instruments heading in the same direction, creating a more efficient (and often more affordable) moving process.
At Bernard Movers, our moving piano service teams provide detailed quotes breaking down all costs for your specific situation. And here’s some exciting news: customers moving to Georgia or Florida can enjoy a special 20% discount on moves booked for delivery by March 15, 2025!
Hidden Costs to Watch For
Nobody likes surprises on their final bill. Here are some potential additional charges to discuss with your piano mover upfront:
If you own a valuable antique piano, custom crating might be recommended at $200-500 additional cost – but this extra protection is often worth every penny for irreplaceable instruments.
Those challenging access points in your home can trigger additional fees. I once moved a grand piano from a hillside home with 37 stairs and a 90-degree turn halfway down – situations like this understandably cost more due to the extra time, personnel, and equipment required.
When the moving truck can’t park near your door, long carry charges typically run $1-2 per foot beyond 75 feet. Similarly, unexpected waiting time caused by building management, elevator access, or other delays may incur hourly charges.
Living in snowy Chicago, we sometimes encounter winter condition surcharges for snow removal or ice management. And if your new home isn’t quite ready, temporary storage for your piano typically costs $50-150 monthly plus additional handling.
Need your piano by a specific date or time? Expedited delivery usually commands premium pricing, as it requires dedicated transportation rather than the more economical shared-transport model.
At Bernard Movers, we conduct thorough pre-move surveys to identify these potential issues in advance. Our detailed quotes specify exactly what’s included and any variable costs based on conditions at both origin and destination. We’ve been moving pianos for decades, and our experience helps us anticipate challenges before they become problems – or unexpected charges on your final invoice.
Preparing Your Home—and Your Piano—Before Movers Arrive
Getting your home ready before the piano movers arrive isn’t just helpful—it’s essential for a smooth, safe move. A little preparation goes a long way toward protecting both your precious instrument and your home during this delicate process.
First things first: create a clear pathway. Your moving piano service team needs more space than you might think—at least 4 feet of clearance for uprights and even more for grands. Remove furniture, roll up area rugs, take down wall art, and relocate any items that might get in the way. Think of it as creating a runway for your piano’s journey.
Doorways can be deal-breakers if not measured in advance. Standard doorways should measure at least 30 inches for upright pianos and 38 inches for grands. Take time to measure every doorway, hallway, and stairwell along the moving path. Jot these numbers down and share them with your moving company beforehand—it could save everyone a major headache on moving day.
“I once had a customer absolutely certain their grand piano would fit through their front door,” recalls Mina from Bernard Movers. “When we arrived, we finded the doorway was three inches too narrow. Having those measurements in advance would have allowed us to bring specialized equipment to remove the door from its hinges.”
Your floors deserve protection too. While our moving piano service teams bring their own floor coverings, removing valuable or delicate rugs ahead of time provides extra peace of mind. For hardwood floors, a quick sweep ensures they’re clean and free of wax buildup that could become dangerously slippery.
Before the movers arrive, take clear photos of your piano from all angles. This simple step documents its pre-move condition and proves invaluable in the unlikely event of damage claims. Pay special attention to any existing scratches or cosmetic issues.
Loose parts need attention too. If your piano has removable elements like music stands or decorative pieces, secure or remove them before the movers arrive. However, leave the keyboard lid open uped so movers can secure it properly during transport.
For more detailed guidance specific to upright pianos, check out our comprehensive guide on How to Pack an Upright Piano.
As one of our veteran piano movers wisely puts it: “Piano moving is not a show. Piano movers are not actors.” This means prepare thoroughly, then step back and let the professionals do their job without an audience that might distract them from their careful work.
Information Your Moving Piano Service Needs Up Front
Giving your moving piano service complete information from the start helps ensure an accurate quote and a smooth move. Think of this as setting up your movers for success.
Complete addresses are essential—not just the street and number, but apartment/unit numbers, zip codes, and any special instructions for finding either location. “Behind the red barn” or “the side entrance with the blue awning” can be incredibly helpful details.
Your piano’s specifics matter tremendously. Let movers know whether you have an upright (including height) or grand piano (including length). If possible, include the manufacturer and model—a Steinway requires different handling than a Yamaha or Baldwin.
Access details can make or break a move. Be upfront about stairs, elevators, tight corners, or narrow doorways at both locations. For grand pianos, ceiling height in stairwells becomes critically important. One customer told us after the fact about a 90-degree turn in their hallway—information that would have been invaluable to know beforehand!
Special circumstances deserve mention too. Is there a steep driveway? A gravel path? Limited parking? These seemingly small details can significantly impact how your moving piano service team prepares for your move.
Timing constraints should be communicated clearly. Building hours for loading docks, neighborhood noise restrictions, or personal scheduling needs help movers plan efficiently. At Bernard Movers, we use all this information to select the right equipment, assign the perfect team size, and allocate enough time for your specific situation.
Day-Of Checklist for Stress-Free Handover
When moving day arrives, these final preparations will help everything go smoothly:
Keep children and pets secure in a separate room or, better yet, arrange for them to be elsewhere during the move. This protects them from the commotion and keeps the movers focused on their delicate task.
Set a comfortable temperature in your home—not too hot or cold. Extreme temperatures affect both the movers’ performance and potentially the piano itself. These instruments are sensitive to environmental changes.
Double-check that your pathway remains completely clear and any floor protection is in place. It’s surprising how quickly items can migrate back into cleared spaces!
Have your payment method and any required paperwork ready according to your agreement with the moving piano service. This prevents awkward delays when the job is complete.
Temporarily disable security systems that might be triggered by doors being held open. Nothing disrupts a careful piano move like a blaring alarm!
Reserve appropriate parking space for the moving truck as close to your entrance as possible. Every extra foot the piano must travel increases complexity and risk.
Be available to answer questions, but resist the urge to hover. Experienced piano movers work best when given space to concentrate on their specialized techniques.
“The most successful moves are the ones where customers are prepared but relaxed,” shares one of our senior piano movers at Bernard Movers. “When you’ve hired professionals, the best thing you can do is trust their expertise.”
Following this guidance creates optimal conditions for your piano’s journey to its new home, allowing our professional teams to work efficiently while ensuring your beloved instrument arrives safely and ready to make music in its new space.
How to Choose the Best Moving Piano Service
Finding the right moving piano service is a bit like finding the perfect piano teacher – you need expertise, trust, and someone who genuinely cares about your instrument. Since your piano might be one of the most valuable (and certainly one of the heaviest) possessions you own, taking time to select the right mover is absolutely essential.
Start your search by diving into online reviews and testimonials. Look for consistent praise about careful handling and problem-solving abilities. As one of our customers recently shared, “The Bernard Movers team treated my grandmother’s piano like it was their own – not a scratch or ding in sight.” Be cautious about companies with repeated complaints about damage or poor communication.
Legitimate credentials matter enormously in this business. Any reputable moving piano service should have proper registration with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Interstate piano movers should provide both USDOT and MC numbers that you can easily verify through the FMCSA website. Don’t just take their word for it – check these numbers yourself!
Insurance coverage isn’t just a nice-to-have – it’s absolutely non-negotiable. Ask for actual proof of both cargo insurance (which covers your piano) and liability insurance (covering potential damage to your property). Request certificates of insurance and have the company explain exactly what’s covered and what isn’t. At Bernard Movers, we’re always happy to walk customers through our comprehensive coverage options.
Pay attention to who will actually handle your piano. Companies that use in-house crews rather than subcontractors typically provide more consistent quality since their teams receive standardized training and follow established protocols. As our operations manager often says, “We don’t just hire movers – we train piano specialists.”
For more insights about our piano moving expertise and approach, visit our dedicated Piano Moving page.
Questions to Ask Your Moving Piano Service
Before trusting anyone with your beloved instrument, arm yourself with these essential questions:
“How many years have you specialized specifically in piano moving?” Listen for substantial piano-specific experience, not just general moving background. Experience moving furniture doesn’t necessarily translate to piano expertise.
“What specialized equipment do you use for pianos?” Good answers include piano boards, specialized dollies, climate-controlled trucks, and proper securing systems. If they just mention “blankets and a dolly,” keep looking!
“Can you explain your valuation coverage options?” Understand the difference between basic valuation (which provides minimal coverage) and full-value protection. At Bernard Movers, we offer comprehensive valuation with no deductible because we understand the true worth of your instrument goes beyond its market value.
“Do you have relationships with piano dealers or technicians?” Professional connections within the music industry indicate credibility and expertise. We’re proud of our longstanding relationships with Chicago’s finest piano technicians and music schools.
“How will you handle the specific challenges at my locations?” Discuss any stairs, tight doorways, or other obstacles to ensure they have a solid plan rather than a “we’ll figure it out when we get there” approach.
“Can you recommend a qualified piano tuner after the move?” Good moving piano service companies maintain relationships with skilled tuners and will happily provide referrals. Your piano will need tuning after settling in its new home.
Extra Services Worth Considering
While transportation is the core service, many professional piano movers offer valuable add-ons that can provide extra peace of mind:
Short-term storage in climate-controlled facilities can be a lifesaver if your new home isn’t quite ready. At Bernard Movers, our specialized piano storage maintains consistent temperature and humidity levels to protect your instrument during transitions. Each piano is blanket-wrapped on carpeted boards with plastic liners for maximum protection.
Post-move tuning arrangements make the transition smoother. The vibrations and climate changes during a move will affect your piano’s tuning, so many moving piano service companies (including ours) can coordinate with qualified technicians to schedule tuning after your piano has settled – typically 2-4 weeks after delivery.
Climate monitoring systems like Dampp-Chasers can be arranged for installation after delivery. These systems help maintain consistent humidity levels around your piano, protecting it from the damaging effects of seasonal changes – particularly important if you’re moving to a climate different from your previous location.
Piano disposal or donation coordination can be a welcome service if you’re replacing an old piano. We can arrange for responsible disposal or, whenever possible, donation to schools, churches, or community organizations that might give your old instrument a new life.
At Bernard Movers, we view ourselves as piano caretakers, not just movers. We’re happy to discuss any special requirements your instrument might have and tailor our services to ensure it receives the care it deserves.
After Your Piano Arrives: Next Steps
Once your piano has been safely delivered to its new home, proper follow-up care ensures it remains in excellent condition. The moving process inevitably causes some internal shifts that require professional attention.
Your piano needs time to get comfortable in its new surroundings – kind of like how we humans need to settle into a new home. Pianos are surprisingly sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity, and all those wooden and metal components need a chance to adjust. This settling period typically takes 1-2 weeks. You can still play during this time, but don’t be surprised if things sound a little off-key.
“Moving a piano always affects its tuning due to vibration and climate changes. A post-move tuning is essential, not optional,” explains one of our long-time technician partners. Most piano professionals recommend waiting 2-4 weeks after delivery before scheduling that tuning appointment. This patience allows your instrument to fully acclimate to its new environment.
Take a few minutes to give your piano a thorough once-over after the move. Run your fingers across the finish checking for any new scratches or dents. Play each key and test all pedals to make sure everything works as it should. If you spot any issues, snap some photos and contact your moving piano service provider right away.
This transition is also the perfect opportunity to find a reliable piano technician in your new location. At Bernard Movers, we’ve built relationships with skilled technicians throughout our service areas and are happy to connect you with someone trustworthy who can care for your instrument long-term.
Routine Maintenance Schedule
Just like a car needs regular oil changes, your piano thrives with consistent care. Here’s what a good maintenance schedule looks like:
Semi-annual tuning keeps your piano sounding its best. Schedule professional tuning at least twice yearly, ideally during spring and fall when seasonal humidity shifts occur. A newly moved piano might need more frequent tuning during its first year in a new location as it fully settles in.
Voicing every 1-2 years helps maintain your piano’s distinct tonal character. This process adjusts the hammers’ hardness to achieve the desired sound quality – whether bright and crisp or warm and mellow.
Regulation every 3-5 years ensures consistent touch and response across all keys. This detailed adjustment process restores the precise mechanical relationships between the thousands of moving parts inside your piano.
Deep cleaning every 5 years removes accumulated dust and debris from your piano’s interior. This preventive maintenance extends your instrument’s life while preserving its sound quality.
Our team at Bernard Movers can recommend qualified piano technicians in your area who understand the specific needs of your instrument and how your local climate might affect it.
Safe Long-Term Placement in Your Home
Where you position your piano significantly impacts its condition over time. Think of it as finding the perfect spot for a treasured houseplant – the environment matters!
Keep your piano away from direct sunlight, which can fade the finish and cause wooden components to dry out and crack. Position it away from windows or use UV-filtering curtains to protect your investment.
Maintain at least 3-5 feet of distance from heating and cooling vents. Direct airflow from HVAC systems creates localized temperature and humidity fluctuations that stress your piano’s wooden components. These sudden changes are among the leading causes of soundboard cracks and action problems.
Stable humidity is crucial for piano health. Aim to maintain relative humidity between 40-50% in the room where your piano lives. Consider using a room humidifier/dehumidifier or installing a piano-specific humidity control system like a Dampp-Chaser if you live in an area with extreme seasonal changes.
For grand pianos, use specialized caster cups to distribute weight evenly and protect your flooring. If you have an upright against a wall, leave a small 1-2 inch gap for air circulation behind the piano.
The room’s acoustics also matter. Hard surfaces create more reverberant sound, while carpeting and soft furnishings dampen it. Your piano’s placement affects not only its condition but also how it sounds in your space – something worth considering as you decide on the perfect spot.
By following these placement guidelines after your moving piano service is complete, you’ll create an optimal environment for your instrument, preserving both its value and performance quality for years of musical enjoyment to come.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving Piano Service
How soon should I tune my piano after a move?
That beautiful piano you just had delivered needs a little time to settle into its new home before tuning. Think of it like this – your piano just went on quite a journey! The wood, strings, and metal parts have been jostled around and exposed to different temperatures and humidity levels.
Most piano technicians (including the ones we regularly work with) recommend waiting about 2-4 weeks after your move before scheduling a tuning. During this time, your piano’s soundboard and internal components will gradually adjust to your home’s unique environment.
“Playing a piano that’s significantly out of tune isn’t just unpleasant – it can actually train your ear to accept incorrect pitch,” explains one of our partner technicians. “But tuning too soon means you’ll just need another tuning shortly after.”
At Bernard Movers, we’re happy to connect you with qualified piano technicians in your new location who understand the specific needs of recently moved instruments. Many customers tell us they appreciate this seamless transition from our moving piano service to ongoing piano care.
Does my homeowners insurance cover piano moves?
This is one of those “yes, but…” situations that can catch piano owners by surprise. While your standard homeowners policy likely provides some coverage for items damaged during a move, the protection for your piano probably isn’t as robust as you might hope.
Most standard policies have some significant limitations when it comes to pianos:
First, they typically cover only the actual cash value rather than replacement cost – a big problem for valuable or vintage instruments. Second, your regular policy deductible applies, meaning smaller damage amounts come out of your pocket. And perhaps most importantly, many policies exclude damage from “improper handling” – a frustratingly vague term when it comes to specialized items like pianos.
Professional moving piano service companies (like us at Bernard Movers) offer specialized valuation coverage designed specifically for pianos. Our coverage has no deductible and protects based on your piano’s declared value. Before your move, we recommend checking with both your insurance agent and discussing coverage options with us to identify any protection gaps.
Can one moving piano service handle international shipping?
Yes! While significantly more complex than moving a piano across town or even across the country, many specialized piano movers (including Bernard Movers) can coordinate international piano shipping.
When we handle international piano moves, we start with custom crating built specifically to international shipping standards. Your piano gets wrapped, secured, and protected in ways that account for the unique stresses of ocean or air transport.
The paperwork side gets a bit more involved too. We’ll help with detailed customs documentation, including any special certificates needed for wooden components or ivory keys (particularly important for vintage pianos).
International piano shipping typically involves a team approach: we handle all the origin services including preparation and crating, work with specialized international freight partners for the overseas portion, and coordinate with trusted destination partners for final delivery.
“Plan early for international piano moves,” advises Mina from our logistics team. “The entire process generally takes 4-12 weeks depending on your destination, and starting the planning 2-3 months ahead gives us time to coordinate everything perfectly.”
If you’re planning an international move with your cherished instrument, give us a call early in your planning process so we can walk you through the specific requirements for your destination country.
Conclusion
When it comes to protecting your musical investment, choosing the right moving piano service isn’t just about transportation—it’s about preserving the heart and soul of an instrument that brings music into your home.
Throughout this guide, we’ve walked through what makes professional piano movers worth every penny. From specialized dollies that cradle your baby grand to climate-controlled trucks that shield your upright from humidity swings, these aren’t just nice-to-haves—they’re absolute necessities for protecting instruments worth thousands (or tens of thousands) of dollars.
I’ve seen how proper preparation before movers arrive can make all the difference. Those clear pathways and precise measurements might seem tedious, but they’re what allows our teams to steer your Steinway safely through that tricky hallway turn without a scratch.
After your piano arrives in its new home, settling period is non-negotiable. Your piano has just completed quite a journey! Give it those 2-4 weeks to acclimate before the tuner visits—your instrument will thank you with years of beautiful music.
At Bernard Movers, our five decades of piano moving experience has taught us that every instrument tells a story. Whether it’s a family heirloom passed through generations or a new purchase representing years of saving, we treat each piano with the care it deserves.
Special offer alert: We’re currently offering a 20% discount on piano moves to Georgia and Florida booked for delivery by March 15, 2025. If those states are in your future, now’s the perfect time to secure professional care for your musical companion.
Professional piano moving isn’t an expense—it’s an investment in protecting something irreplaceable. The peace of mind that comes from watching skilled professionals handle your cherished instrument with practiced precision simply can’t be measured in dollars and cents.
Ready to plan your piano’s journey to its new home? Visit our detailed piano-moving experts page or give our Chicago office a call. We’d be honored to orchestrate the perfect move for your musical treasure.