A piano is the one item where "we'll just grab a few friends" goes wrong fast. Uprights weigh 300–500 lbs and grands far more, the weight is awkward and top-heavy, and a single slip damages the instrument, your floors, or someone's back. In LA, stairs and hillside access make it harder still — this is a job for a specialty crew with the right equipment.
Upright vs. grand
Uprights are moved on a heavy-duty piano dolly, carefully balanced and strapped. Grands are partially disassembled — the legs and pedal lyre come off and the body is moved on its side on a padded skid board, then reassembled at the destination. Each type needs different equipment and technique, which is why a written, flat price beats an hourly guess.
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What it costs in LA
Expect flat written prices starting around $250 for a straightforward upright and from roughly $550 for a grand, with the final number driven mainly by stairs, tight turns, and hillside or long carries. Send photos of the piano and both locations — including stairs and doorways — and you'll get a binding price up front rather than a surprise on the day.
Prep and protection
Clear the path and measure doorways and stairwells in advance. After the move, let the piano settle and acclimate before tuning — LA's temperature and humidity swings (and that summer heat) can shift the tuning, so most techs suggest waiting a couple of weeks. See our piano moving service for details or send photos for a flat quote.
Related guides
Related questions
How much does it cost to move a piano in Los Angeles?
With Best Movers LA, uprights cost $250–$600, baby grands $400–$750 and full grands $550–$1,000. Depends heavily on stairs, access, and distance.
Do regular movers move pianos?
Some do, but specialty piano movers are safer for grands and valuable instruments. Ask specifically about piano experience and equipment when getting quotes.
Does a piano need tuning after moving?
Yes — always. Wait 2–4 weeks for it to acclimate to the new location's humidity, then book a professional tuning.
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