There’s something about a grand piano. It’s not just an instrument; it’s a statement, a centrepiece, often a family heirloom. But its beauty comes with a price when it’s time to move. Grand pianos are in a category of their own. They require specialized equipment, a larger crew, and a level of expertise that general movers simply don’t possess.
If you own a grand piano, you already know it’s not like moving a sofa. But understanding exactly what goes into a grand piano move helps you appreciate why professional expertise is essential—and how to ensure your instrument arrives safely.
This guide covers the grand piano moving process step by step, the costs involved, and the risks of attempting a DIY move. For nearly five decades, Ottawa Movers has specialized in moving grand pianos of all sizes, from baby grands to concert grands. With 48+ years of experience, CAM‑trained crews, specialized skid boards and leg‑removal tools, and a Damage‑Free Guarantee backed by $1.5 million in insurance, we’ve moved hundreds of grands without a single claim.
Moving grand piano is not like moving a sofa – it requires expertise.
For an overview of other challenging moves, see our challenging piano moves guide .
Why Grand Pianos Require Special Handling
Grand pianos are fundamentally different from uprights. Their shape, weight distribution, and construction mean they cannot be moved like ordinary furniture.
- Weight: 500 to 1,200 lbs, with concert grands at the high end.
- Shape: Long and low, with legs that are not designed to bear the full weight during transport.
- Fragility: The soundboard and strings are exposed when the piano is tilted; legs are delicate and can snap if not removed properly.
- Crew size: Requires four to five trained movers.
- Equipment: Needs a specialized piano skid board, leg‑removal tools, and custom padding.
Grand piano moving services Ottawa require specialized expertise.
Step‑by‑Step: How Professionals Move a Grand Piano
A grand piano move is a carefully choreographed operation. Here’s what happens when you hire Ottawa Movers.
Step 1: Assessment
Before moving day, a senior mover visits your home to assess the piano, measure doorways, hallways, and stairwells, and plan the route. For grand pianos, special attention is paid to:
- The width of doorways (a grand piano’s body can be 5–9 feet long)
- The turning radius in hallways
- The availability of a service elevator if moving from a high‑rise
Step 2: Preparation
On moving day, the crew prepares the piano:
- The lid is closed and secured.
- The music stand is removed and wrapped separately.
- The bench is moved separately.
- The piano’s exterior is inspected for any pre‑existing damage.
Step 3: Leg Removal
Using specialized leg‑removal tools, the crew carefully unscrews each leg. The legs are wrapped individually in padding to protect the finish. The piano is then tilted onto a piano skid board—a reinforced frame designed to support the entire weight of the harp and case.
Step 4: Moving to the Truck
The piano, now on the skid board, is moved using a combination of dollies and careful tilting. If stairs are involved, stair rollers are attached, and the crew moves the piano step by step with coordinated communication.
Step 5: Loading and Securing
Inside the moving truck, the piano is strapped securely to the wall. It is positioned away from other items to prevent contact during transit. For long‑distance moves, climate‑controlled trucks are used to protect the piano from temperature extremes.
Step 6: Unloading and Reassembly
At the destination, the process is reversed. The piano is moved into the home on the skid board, placed in the desired location, and the legs are reattached. The crew ensures the piano is level and stable.
Step 7: Final Walkthrough
You inspect the piano with the crew to confirm everything is perfect. You sign off, and the move is complete.
Safely moving a grand piano Ottawa is a carefully choreographed process.
Grand piano moves take 2–4 hours for local moves. See our how long a piano move takes guide for more detail.
Grand Piano Moving Costs – What to Budget
The cost of moving a grand piano depends on its size, the presence of stairs, and the distance. Here are typical ranges for local moves:
| Grand Piano Type | Local Move (Ground Floor) | With Stairs |
| Baby Grand (5’–5’6”) | $300 – $500 | $400 – $700 |
| Medium Grand (5’7”–6’6”) | $400 – $700 | $500 – $900 |
| Concert Grand (7’–9’6”) | $700 – $1,500+ | $1,000 – $2,500+ |
These ranges assume a standard move within Ottawa. Long‑distance moves increase the cost significantly, as do extreme access challenges like cranes or custom crating.
For a side‑by‑side comparison with upright moving costs, see our average piano moving cost guide.
Cost of moving a grand piano Ottawa reflects the complexity.
Risks of DIY Grand Piano Moving – Why It’s Not Worth It
Attempting to move a grand piano without professional equipment and training is not just risky—it’s almost guaranteed to cause damage.
Specific DIY risks:
- Leg removal: Improper removal can snap a leg or damage the case. Once a leg is damaged, the piano may not sit level again.
- No skid board: Without a skid board, the piano’s weight is concentrated on a small area, which can crack the soundboard or split the case.
- Insufficient crew: Two or three people cannot safely move a grand piano. The risk of dropping it is extremely high.
- Insurance void: If you damage the piano during a DIY move, your home insurance almost certainly will not cover it. You’ll be paying for repairs out of pocket.
Real‑world example: A client once attempted to move a baby grand with three friends. They removed the legs but used a furniture dolly instead of a skid board. The piano tipped during loading, cracking the soundboard. The repair cost was $4,200—more than the original quote from Ottawa Movers would have been.
Risks moving grand piano Ottawa are far too high for amateurs.
See why professionals are essential in our DIY vs professional piano movers guide.
Trust Ottawa Movers with Your Grand Piano
Your grand piano is an investment, a piece of art, and often a family treasure. When it’s time to move it, don’t trust it to anyone less than the best. With decades of experience, specialized equipment, and a Damage‑Free Guarantee, Ottawa Movers is the name Ottawa trusts for grand piano moves.
Get your free, no‑obligation in‑home assessment today. We’ll assess your piano, discuss your move, and give you a clear, transparent quote.
[Get Your Free Grand Piano Moving Quote]
FAQs About Moving Grand Pianos
How many movers are needed for a grand piano?
Four to five trained professionals. The exact number depends on the piano’s size and whether stairs are involved.
Do you have to remove the legs of a grand piano to move it?
Yes. The legs are delicate and must be removed. The piano is then placed on a specialized skid board for transport.
How much does it cost to move a grand piano locally?
$300–$1,500 depending on size, stairs, and distance. Ottawa Movers provides a free, transparent quote after an in‑home assessment.
Can a grand piano be moved in one piece?
No – leg removal is necessary for safe transport. Attempting to move a grand with legs attached will almost certainly cause damage.
Does Ottawa Movers have experience with concert grands?
Yes. We’ve moved concert grands from churches, concert halls, and private homes for 48+ years. We have the equipment and crew to handle even the largest grands.
