Planning a piano transport
Distance alone does not determine the work involved. The instrument, building access and final position need to be considered together. A few clear details help establish whether a straightforward route is available or a specialist solution is needed.
Identify the instrument
An upright and a grand piano differ in dimensions and centre of gravity. A grand piano’s length is particularly useful for planning. For a digital piano, model and construction are more informative than an assumed weight: a portable keyboard is different from a heavy cabinet instrument.
Have the model name and any known dimensions ready, without moving or weighing the instrument yourself. For several instruments, give the number and types. Mention historical or unusual pieces explicitly.
Check the complete route at both addresses
Having a lift is not enough. Its cabin, door opening and permitted load must suit the instrument and planned transport. Steps before the lift, tight corners and a long route from the vehicle can still require additional handling.
Describe collection and delivery separately. Before confirming the job, the company should assess passageways and vehicle access. Photos and measurements can help at that stage; choosing a crane, external lift or carrying equipment is a professional decision.
- Collection and delivery. State the floor, whether the lift is usable and any steps up to the final position.
- Outside space. Clarify vehicle parking, space for lifting equipment and any necessary permissions.
- Positioning. Check whether delivery includes placing the instrument in the intended room.
Understanding piano transport prices
One published regional tariff lists CHF 380 for an upright piano with level access or a suitable lift within Zurich and neighbouring municipalities, including VAT. Under that tariff, access by stairs to the first floor at an address adds CHF 40. Collection from the first floor and delivery at ground level would therefore total CHF 420, provided all other tariff conditions are met. This is a specific pricing example, not a Swiss market average.
Other specialists charge a base amount and travelling time separately. Compare the full price for your route and both access points. A lower starting charge does not necessarily mean a lower final bill, and averaging different charging models would be misleading.
| Item | What to confirm |
|---|---|
| Instrument | Type, size, number and any dismantling |
| Route | Travel, stairs at both addresses and long carrying distances |
| Special equipment | External lift, crane, parking and permissions |
| Total | VAT, protection, positioning and possible waiting time |
Agree protection and handover details
Establish who prepares, protects, loads and positions the instrument. If a grand needs dismantling and reassembly, include this explicitly in the order. The word ‘insured’ alone does not confirm the scope of cover, insured value or excess.
Record the visible condition before collection and inspect the instrument together at delivery. Existing damage and loose components should be disclosed beforehand. For a valuable individual piece, agree a suitable condition record rather than improvising its packaging.
Allow for storage and tuning
If collection and delivery are on different dates, ask for storage suitable for instruments and clarify who organises onward delivery. For international transport, documents depend on the purpose: a purchase, concert trip and change of residence are different situations.
Conditions at the new location should be as stable as possible. Significant temperature and humidity changes can affect an acoustic instrument. Plan tuning and inspection with a technician rather than applying a fixed waiting period to every move. Digital pianos do not require acoustic tuning.
Frequently asked questions
Can a piano be moved within the same building?
Yes. Even without a road journey, access and final positioning determine the work. Enter the same location and explain the internal route in the optional notes.
Do I need the exact weight?
The instrument type and, for a grand, approximate length are normally enough for an initial request. Model details and manufacturer information help the company select equipment later. Do not lift the instrument yourself to weigh it.
Is tuning included?
Only if expressly agreed. Transport and tuning are separate services. Confirm the technician, timing and price.
Can I request international transport?
Yes. Select the countries at both ends. The quote should clarify responsibility for customs formalities, packaging and any temporary storage.
