You’ve decided to hire professional piano movers. Now comes the critical step: vetting the company. Asking the right questions before you book protects your piano, your home, and your wallet. A reputable mover will welcome your questions and answer them transparently.
This guide lists the ten most important questions to ask any piano moving company. Each question helps you separate specialists from general movers and ensures you’re hiring a team you can trust.
Ottawa Movers has been answering these questions for 48+ years. With over 23,000 successful moves, CAM‑trained crews, a Damage‑Free Guarantee, and $1.5 million in insurance, we’re proud to meet the highest standards of transparency and professionalism.
These questions for piano movers will help you find a trustworthy professional.
This article is part of our piano mover etiquette series .
Question 1: Are You Licensed and Insured?
Licensing ensures the company meets basic legal requirements. Insurance protects you if something goes wrong.
What to look for: A mover should carry both liability insurance and cargo insurance. Ottawa Movers provides a Damage‑Free Guarantee backed by $1.5 million in insurance—far beyond the industry minimum.
Always ask for proof of insurance before signing a contract.
Question 2: How Many Piano Moves Have You Completed?
Experience matters. Piano moving is a specialized skill; you want a crew that has done it hundreds or thousands of times.
What to look for: Ottawa Movers has completed over 23,000 piano moves. Ask for a rough number, and be wary of companies that can’t give a confident answer.
Question 3: What Specialized Equipment Do You Use?
A piano cannot be moved safely with a standard furniture dolly. The right equipment is essential.
What to look for:
- Piano skid board – for grand pianos and large uprights.
- Leg‑removal tools – to safely remove grand piano legs.
- Stair rollers – for moving pianos up or down stairs.
- Professional‑grade blankets and straps – to protect the finish and secure the piano.
Ottawa Movers owns and maintains all of this equipment.
Question 4: How Do You Handle Stairs?
Stairs are the most dangerous part of any piano move. A clear process indicates professionalism.
What to look for: The mover should describe using stair rollers, a crew of at least 3–5 people (depending on piano size), and careful step‑by‑step coordination.
Read our detailed guide on moving piano stairs to understand the proper method.
Question 5: Do You Have a Damage‑Free Guarantee?
Not all movers offer a guarantee, and the terms vary widely.
What to look for: Ottawa Movers offers a Damage‑Free Guarantee backed by $1.5 million insurance. If damage occurs, we cover repair or replacement. Ask whether the guarantee covers both piano and property damage.
Question 6: What Is Your Pricing Structure?
Hidden fees are a common complaint in the moving industry. Get the pricing structure in writing.
What to look for: Ask whether they charge hourly or flat rate. Clarify what’s included: stairs, long carry, packing materials, fuel, travel time. Ottawa Movers provides transparent quotes with no hidden fees.
Question 7: Can You Provide References?
Reputable movers will have a history of satisfied clients.
What to look for: Check online reviews on Google, Trustpilot, or the Better Business Bureau. Ottawa Movers has consistently high ratings and can also provide client references upon request.
Question 8: Do You Move Grand Pianos?
Not all piano movers have the equipment or training to move grand pianos safely.
What to look for: A clear “yes” and a description of their grand piano process. Ottawa Movers has extensive experience with baby grands, concert grands, and everything in between.
Question 9: What Is Your Cancellation Policy?
Life happens. Know the cancellation terms before you book.
What to look for: A clear timeline (e.g., cancellation 48 hours before for full refund). Ottawa Movers communicates its policy upfront—no surprises.
Question 10: Will You Provide a Written Quote?
Never rely on a verbal estimate. A written quote protects both you and the mover.
What to look for: A detailed breakdown of all costs, including potential add‑ons. Ottawa Movers provides a written, all‑inclusive quote after an in‑home assessment.
Ready to Hire? Ottawa Movers Passes Every Test
When you ask these ten questions, you’re looking for a mover who is experienced, well‑equipped, insured, and transparent. Ottawa Movers meets every criterion.
With 48+ years of experience, specialized equipment, a Damage‑Free Guarantee, and a reputation built on 23,000+ successful moves, we’re the choice Ottawa residents trust.
Get your free, no‑obligation in‑home assessment today. We’ll answer all your questions and provide a clear, written quote.
[Get Your Free Piano Moving Quote]
