Shipping a piano is a complex and delicate process. The professionals at TSI SHIPPING are equipped with the experience to handle all aspects of shipping your piano. Learn more about TSI's white glove piano moving services. Pianos are large, heavy, and delicate — not to mention expensive — and that can make them especially daunting to ship across the country (or the state). TSI makes long-distance piano shipping easy. Our logistics specialists have access to professional piano shippers across the country and can create a customized plan for moving or shipping your piano. We'll professionally pack and prepare your piano to keep it safe during transit. Our piano shipping solutions can include custom crating and transport in trucks with air-ride suspension and climate control if needed. Request a piano shipping quote for more details. We focus on long-distance moving or shipping of pianos, including:
Spinet pianos, console pianos, studio pianos, and all upright pianos.
Baby grand, medium grand, parlor grand, and concert grand pianos.
Keyboards, console pianos, Clavinovas, digital grand pianos, and more.
Heirloom pianos and all antique pianos.
Electric organs, pipe organs, reed organs, portable organs, and more.
If you are sending a piano across the country, consider our White Glove Consolidated shipping option. If you have a tight timeline and have more to ship, our live shipping experts may recommend Full Service Expedited moving service.
Piano shipments start at around $1,500 for a standard upright piano and can go higher than $2,500 or more for high-value or grand pianos. TSI takes a variety of considerations into account when preparing quotes. Factors that affect the price of a piano shipment include:
Size, Weight, and Age
Large, bulky, and heavy pianos will have higher associated shipping costs. Similarly, older pianos may have more delicate components that require extra precautions and considerations. A standard upright piano could weigh between 500 and 800 pounds, while grand pianos can exceed 1,000 pounds. The size and weight of these instruments mean we take special care when moving them to prevent damage to the piano or the property, as well as to ensure the safety of all movers.
Location
Where the piano is also impacts the moving cost. Things to consider include what floor of the home it is on and the number of doorways, staircases, and steps between the piano and where the moving truck will be. Take precise measurements of the instrument to check that it fits through all doorways and around any sharp corners so there are no surprises come moving day.
Distance
As with shipping any item, how far you are sending the piano will factor into the final price. Certain markets may also have higher or lower pricing than others. Depending on the type of piano, TSI may offer climate-controlled and air-ride suspension trucks so you'll feel confident your piano can safely travel the distance.
Insurance
A professional moving service can offer peace of mind, but it's always a good idea to purchase insurance for valuable items ahead of a move. Purchasing extra insurance is worth it but important to factor into the overall shipping cost.
Timeline
A professional moving service will usually offer pickup and delivery timeframes based on the distance and timeline of your move. Since shipping pianos and other larger items takes more logistics than traditional box cargo, the timeline for shipping may be longer than you are expecting. If you need faster service, talk with one of our shipping experts about our Full Service Expedited moving services and priority pickup.
When shipping a piano, you want to look for reliable moving services. The team at TSI offers:
They help us serve you better. See what our customers have to say about our Piano Shipping services below. You can read more reviews here.
Mindy Bickel
Roxanne K
Elaine R.
What kinds of pianos can you ship?
TSI can ship all kinds of pianos, including upright pianos, baby grand pianos, grand pianos, and digital pianos. We can also ship antique or heirloom pianos, as well as other large instruments.
Can I ship a grand piano?
Yes, you can ship a grand piano. The logistics experts at TSI will work with you to create a customized plan for your shipment.
Can I move a piano myself?
Yes, you can move a piano yourself, but it is not recommended. If you choose to move a piano yourself, be sure to take the appropriate precautions and thoroughly research the correct packing and moving methods, as well as any risks you might encounter along the way.
Hiring professional piano movers is always recommended. Professional piano movers will have the experience and expertise to safely pack and move your piano. For short-distance moves, look for a local piano mover in your city. For long-distance moves, White Glove shipping is the safest option. Look for providers like TSI who have extensive experience moving pianos.
Can I lay a piano on its back?
No—a piano should never be set on its back, under any circumstances. This significantly increases the likelihood of damage to the internal components.
What’s the best way to ship a piano across the country?
The best way to ship a piano across the country is to use White Glove consolidated freight shipping services. TSI’s White Glove service includes indoor pickup and delivery, transport on temperature-controlled vehicles, air-ride suspension, and loading and unloading by hand or crane (instead of a forklift) to ensure that your piano stays safe throughout its entire journey.
How much does it cost to ship a piano?
The cost of shipping your piano will depend on the size and value of your piano, as well as the distance traveled, and any special considerations. Piano shipments start at around $1,500 for a standard upright piano, and can go higher than $2,500 or more for high-value or grand pianos.
How long does it take to ship a piano?
Because we consolidate items going in the same direction onto the same truck, you can expect it to take up to 15 business days for pickup and up to 20 additional business days for delivery. If your pickup and delivery locations are in well-traveled areas, this timeline could be much quicker. We also offer priority pickup options.
How do I pack a piano for shipping?
Packing a piano requires great attention to detail. It is always recommended that you work with a professional piano mover to ensure that your instrument is transported safely and securely.
If you are packing your piano yourself, you will generally follow these steps:
1. Measure the piano to ensure you have adequate space and a clear path out of your house. Prepare the area by laying down ramps or plywood to make it easier to roll the piano over carpet, grass, cobblestones, or sand.
2. Take pictures of your piano from all angles. Note existing damage that might cause problems during the move.
3. Close the lid and lock it if possible. If there’s no lid, cover the keys in moving blankets, ensuring no tape comes into contact with the piano. Cover the entire piano, including the pedals, in moving blankets, taped securely in place with high quality packing tape.
4. Hoist the piano onto a four-wheeled dolly. Secure the piano on the dolly using moving straps or rope.
5. Gently roll your piano to the truck or moving vehicle.
For detailed instructions, read our comprehensive How Do I Ship a Piano? guide.
Request a piano shipping quote online to get pricing for shipping a piano. Our logistics experts in Wayne, Pennsylvania, will be in touch for more information about your move and any fragile items, including details about each piece, your final destination requirements, pickup conditions, and more.
Need help with a long distance small move or a specialty piano shipment? Chat with a TSI Logistics Specialist now.
