Upright pianos are heavy, awkward, and easy to damage without the right crew. In Chicago, tight hallways, walk-up staircases, and icy sidewalks make upright piano moving even harder than it sounds. This page covers everything about upright piano moving in Chicago — home moves, studio relocations, and storage transfers. Our team at Bernard Movers is available for same-week scheduling in most cases. We use piano-specific equipment and a trained crew so your instrument and your floors stay protected.
Most upright piano moves need two to four people. The right crew size depends on how heavy the piano is, how many stairs are involved, and how wide the doorways are.
Chicago homes and buildings often change that number. High-rises and two-flats throughout the city regularly require three or four movers instead of two. We size the crew before we arrive so nothing gets improvised on moving day.
Using friends and a rented truck feels like a plan until something goes wrong. Professional movers bring piano boards, rubber straps, and corner guards. Friends don’t.
Many buildings in Lincoln Square and Pilsen were built decades ago. Steep, narrow staircases are common in those neighborhoods. One wrong angle and the piano tips, the wall gets gouged, or someone gets hurt. We handle these situations every week.
A prepared space speeds up the job and keeps your walls and floors clean. Chicago winters add one more step — crews need a dry entry path and floor mats at the door before the piano ever moves.
Before we arrive, take care of these basics:
If this is your first piano move, knowing the steps ahead of time makes the whole day easier. Our crew works the same process every time so nothing gets skipped.
Here is exactly what happens:
In loft buildings in Wicker Park, freight elevator coordination with building staff is sometimes required. We handle that communication directly.
A quick check right after delivery catches any issues before we leave. Chicago’s temperature swings — from cold outdoor air into a heated building — can also affect tuning and wood after the move.
Here is what to check on the spot:
Customer satisfaction is our top priority, and our numerous positive customer reviews reflect our commitment to providing exceptional service. Our clients trust Bernard Movers for their apartment moving Chicago and residential moving Chicago needs. Whether you’re relocating within Chicago or across state lines, we ensure a smooth and successful move every time.
Yes — even a one-room or one-floor move carries real injury and damage risk without the right equipment. Upright pianos weigh between 300 and 800 pounds and don’t move safely without a piano board and trained crew.
Yes, with the right crew size and stair-climbing equipment it can be done safely. When you book, let us know the stair count and whether there are any turns on the staircase.
Most upright pianos weigh between 300 and 800 pounds. Spinets are on the lighter end. Full uprights and studio models run heavier. Weight affects how many movers we send.
One to two weeks ahead works for most moves. Moving season in Chicago runs May through September and books up fast, so the earlier you reach out, the better.
Confirm this detail when you book. Some moves include that step; others benefit from a piano technician handling the mechanical parts separately.
Many high-rises and co-ops in Chicago require a certificate of insurance from the moving company before they allow access. Bernard Movers carries that documentation and can provide it when you book.
