Moving a piano is very different from moving a sofa, a fridge, or even a large dining table. A piano is heavy, delicate, valuable, and often emotionally important. Many people in Melbourne are surprised when they first ask, “How much does it cost to move a piano?” because the answer is not a simple flat number. The price depends on many things, including the type of piano, where it is located, how far it needs to go, and how difficult the move is.
As a moving expert in Melbourne, I’ve helped families, musicians, schools, churches, and studios move pianos safely across suburbs like Dandenong, Carlton, Richmond, St Kilda, Brunswick, and all the way out to regional Victoria. In this guide, I’ll explain piano moving costs in Melbourne in a clear and honest way, so you know exactly what to expect and how to plan your budget.
Why Piano Moving Costs More Than Regular Furniture?
A piano is not just heavy. It is also very sensitive. Inside a piano are thousands of small parts working together to create sound. One wrong move can damage the internal mechanism, scratch the surface, or knock the piano out of tune.
Most upright pianos weigh between 180 and 300 kilograms. Baby grand and grand pianos can weigh 300 to 500 kilograms or more. Because of this weight and complexity, piano moving requires trained movers, special equipment, and extra care.
In Melbourne, professional piano movers use piano dollies, heavy-duty straps, padding, skid boards, ramps, and sometimes cranes. This extra equipment and skill are the main reasons piano moving costs more than standard removals.
Average Cost to Move a Piano in Melbourne
In Melbourne, the average cost to move a piano usually falls within these ranges:
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Upright piano: $250 to $500
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Baby grand piano: $350 to $700
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Grand piano: $500 to $1,200 or more
These are general estimates. Your actual price may be lower or higher depending on your specific situation. A simple ground-floor move across a short distance will cost less than a complicated move involving stairs, tight hallways, or apartment buildings.
Read more: Before you hire a mover, learn the proper steps to prepare your piano for transport
Cost Breakdown by Piano Type
Upright Piano Moving Cost
Upright pianos are the most common type found in Melbourne homes. They are tall and heavy but take up less floor space than grand pianos. Because they are easier to maneuver, upright piano moves are usually the most affordable.
If the piano is on the ground floor and there are no stairs, you can expect a price closer to the lower end of the range. If there are stairs, narrow entrances, or limited parking, the cost will increase.
Baby Grand Piano Moving Cost
Baby grand pianos require partial disassembly. The legs, pedals, and sometimes the lid need to be removed and carefully wrapped. This adds time, labor, and skill to the move.
Because of this extra work, baby grand piano moves in Melbourne usually cost more than upright piano moves. Special skid boards and extra movers are often required to keep the piano safe.
Grand Piano Moving Cost
Grand pianos are the most expensive to move. They are larger, heavier, and more fragile. Moving a grand piano often requires a highly experienced team and may involve special lifting equipment.
If the piano is in a concert hall, school, or upper-level apartment, costs can rise significantly. Some grand piano moves in Melbourne can exceed $1,000, especially if cranes or hoists are required.
Factors That Affect Piano Moving Costs in Melbourne
Distance of the Move
Local piano moves within Melbourne suburbs are cheaper than long-distance moves. A move from Dandenong to South Yarra to Toorak will cost less than a move from Melbourne to Geelong or Ballarat.
Longer distances mean more fuel, more time, and more planning, which increases the final price.
Stairs and Access Challenges
Stairs are one of the biggest cost factors in piano moving. Each step adds risk and effort. Tight staircases, spiral stairs, or narrow hallways require extra movers and more time.
Apartment buildings with lifts can still increase costs if the lift is small, slow, or requires booking. If the piano does not fit in the lift, alternative methods may be needed.
Size of Doorways and Hallways
Older Melbourne homes often have narrow doorways and tight corners. If a piano needs to be tilted or carefully rotated to fit through a space, the job becomes more complex and time-consuming.
Parking and Loading Distance
If movers cannot park close to your home, they may need to carry the piano a longer distance. Inner-city areas like the CBD, Fitzroy, or Collingwood sometimes have parking restrictions that affect moving costs.
Time and Day of the Move
Moving a piano on weekends, public holidays, or during peak times may cost more. Some Melbourne movers offer better rates on weekdays or during off-peak hours.
Insurance and Protection
Professional piano movers include basic insurance, but some customers choose extra coverage for valuable or antique pianos. This can add to the cost but provides peace of mind.
Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
Not all moving quotes are the same. Some cheap quotes may not include important services. Always ask what is included in the price.
Extra costs can include stair fees, long carry fees, waiting time, or special equipment charges. A professional Melbourne piano mover should explain all costs upfront so there are no surprises on moving day.
Is It Worth Hiring Professional Piano Movers?
Some people consider moving a piano themselves to save money. This is very risky. Pianos can cause serious injuries if they tip or slip. They can also be permanently damaged if handled incorrectly.
Repairing a damaged piano often costs more than hiring professionals in the first place. Hiring experienced piano movers in Melbourne protects your piano, your home, and your safety.
How to Reduce Piano Moving Costs?
You may not be able to control every cost, but there are ways to keep the price reasonable.
Clear pathways before movers arrive. Remove obstacles, rugs, and furniture. Measure doorways in advance and inform the movers about stairs or access issues. Choose a weekday move if possible. Most importantly, provide accurate information when requesting a quote.
Piano Moving Costs vs Piano Value
Many people ask whether it is worth moving an old piano. Some older pianos have sentimental value but limited resale value. If your piano is rarely used and difficult to move, it may be worth comparing moving costs with the piano’s actual value.
That said, family heirloom pianos often hold emotional value that cannot be replaced. In those cases, professional moving is still the best choice.
Why Melbourne Piano Moves Need Local Experience?
Melbourne has a mix of modern apartments, Victorian-era homes, narrow laneways, and busy streets. Local experience matters. Movers who understand Melbourne’s suburbs, traffic patterns, and building styles can plan better and avoid delays.
A local Melbourne removalist knows how to handle tricky access points and council parking rules, which helps keep your move smooth and cost-effective.
Need Safe, Affordable Piano Movers in Melbourne?
Trust Best Ozi Movers to move your piano with care, skill, and local expertise. Get a clear free quote and stress-free service from a Melbourne removalist who understands pianos.
FAQ’s About Cost to Move a Piano in Melbourne
How long does it take to move a piano?
Most local piano moves in Melbourne take between one and three hours, depending on access, stairs, and distance.
Do piano movers retune the piano after moving?
Moving can affect tuning. Most movers recommend tuning the piano a few weeks after the move, once it adjusts to its new environment.
Can you move a piano upstairs?
Yes, professional movers can move pianos upstairs if access allows. This usually increases the cost due to extra labor and risk.
Is insurance included in piano moving?
Most professional movers include basic insurance. Always confirm coverage details before booking.
Can a piano be moved in the rain?
Yes, with proper wrapping and protection. Professional movers use waterproof covers to keep the piano safe.