Moving a piano requires precision, experience, and the right equipment. Whether it’s an upright, baby grand, or concert grand, hiring a specialized piano moving service ensures your instrument stays safe and tuned. Below are the ten most trusted piano movers to consider for your next relocation — plus insights on what makes a great piano moving company in NYC.
1. 5 Star Movers NYC
A leader in local and long-distance piano moves, 5 Star Movers NYC offers secure transport and trained technicians who handle all piano types.
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Services: Local + long-distance piano moving, tuning coordination, and climate-safe transport.
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Service Area: NYC, Tri-State, and East Coast.
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Why Choose Them: Certified team, full insurance, and same-day availability.
2. Modern Piano Moving
Established over 80 years ago, Modern Piano Moving operates nationwide with specialized piano shipping vehicles and protective crating for cross-country deliveries.
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Best For: Long-distance and interstate piano moving.
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Website: modernpiano.com
3. Oz Moving & Storage
A reputable NYC-based moving company known for its delicate item handling. Their piano moving division offers padded, strapped, and climate-controlled service.
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Best For: Local NYC piano moves and residential clients.
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Website: ozmoving.com
4. Steinway Piano Movers
Specializing in transporting Steinway and other high-end pianos, this company is trusted by professional musicians and venues.
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Best For: Luxury and concert-grade instruments.
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Website: steinwaymoving.com
5. Roadway Moving
Roadway Moving provides white-glove piano relocation with trained staff using hydraulic lifts and custom padding for extra security.
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Best For: Apartment and high-rise piano moving in NYC.
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Website: roadwaymoving.com
6. Dumbo Moving and Storage
Offering affordable pricing without sacrificing quality, Dumbo Moving’s piano movers are skilled in navigating tight stairwells and elevators.
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Best For: Budget-friendly piano moving within NYC.
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Website: dumbomoving.com
7. Gentle Giant Moving Company
Known for exceptional customer service and care, Gentle Giant provides specialized handling for antique and upright pianos.
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Best For: Local + long-distance residential piano moving.
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Website: gentlegiant.com
8. Pianoland Movers
A boutique NYC service specializing in upright and baby grand pianos for private residences and schools.
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Best For: Smaller piano types and local clients.
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Website: pianolandmovers.com
9. Clancy Moving Systems
As an agent of United Van Lines, Clancy Moving Systems provides professional-grade piano logistics for long-haul or multi-state moves.
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Best For: Long-distance and interstate piano transport.
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Website: clancymoving.com
10. Piece of Cake Moving & Storage
A fast-growing NYC mover offering efficient piano relocation, including stair and narrow-space challenges.
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Best For: Quick, flexible piano moves within NYC.
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Website: mypieceofcakemove.com
Key Factors When Choosing a Piano Moving Service
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Experience: Movers should have specialized piano-handling training.
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Equipment: Hydraulic lifts, dollies, and climate-protected trucks are essential.
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Insurance: Always confirm valuation coverage for instruments.
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COI Compliance: NYC buildings often require a Certificate of Insurance.
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Customer Reviews: Prior clients’ experiences help verify reliability.
For detailed insurance and building compliance requirements, see our COI guide for NYC movers.
Preparing Your Piano for Moving Day
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Remove personal items from the piano.
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Secure and lock the keyboard lid.
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Cover with padded blankets to prevent scratches.
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Keep the environment at stable temperature/humidity.
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Schedule a post-move tuning session—minor detuning is common due to transport.
Need professional packing? Our white glove movers provide custom crating and temperature-regulated handling for high-value instruments.
Average Piano Moving Costs in NYC
| Type of Piano | Average Cost (Local Move) | Average Cost (Long-Distance) |
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| Upright | $250–$400 | $800–$1,200 |
| Baby Grand | $400–$700 | $1,000–$1,500 |
| Concert Grand | $700–$1,200 | $1,500–$3,000+ |
Prices depend on stairs, distance, disassembly, and insurance requirements. Always request a written quote.
Get your personalized piano moving estimate from 5 Star Movers NYC.
FAQs About Piano Moving Services
How long does a piano move take?
Most local moves take 1–3 hours. Longer times apply for staircases or multi-stop routes.
Is insurance included?
Professional movers include basic liability but offer extra valuation coverage upon request.
Can you move a piano in bad weather?
Yes. Movers use padded covers, shrink wrap, and waterproof vehicles to protect against rain and humidity.
Do movers tune the piano after relocation?
No. Moving companies don’t tune pianos but can recommend certified technicians.
What’s the safest way to move a piano upstairs?
Always use a multi-person team with straps, dolly, and rail protection—never DIY.
