A piano is not just an expensive musical instrument; it holds great sentimental value also. The piano that you’ve bought after diligently working for years is one of the most precious things in your house. So, when it’s time to relocate, it’s obvious to get worried about transporting it safely. As a proud owner of a grand piano, you can’t take the risk of a DIY move. When moving a piano, you’ve to give it the care and attention it deserves.
Pianos, as you already know, are heavy and bulky. Besides their weight and delicate nature, pianos are also precious, both sentimentally and monetarily. A DIY move poses a risk to yourself and those around you. Moreover, moving a piano by yourself puts your valuable piano in jeopardy. Whether you need to move a piano locally or over a long distance, it’s highly recommended to hire professional movers. But, how will you find a reliable mover? What are the qualities that you need to look at when searching for a piano moving company? When hiring a piano mover, you need to find a specialist. There are several moving companies, but not all specialize in moving the piano. So, if you want to relocate your precious piano, here safely are some tips for hiring a reliable piano moving company.
Moving Company’s License
When looking for a moving company, it’s tricky to differentiate reliable movers from fraudulent ones. The best way to ensure the reliability of a company is by checking their license. The moving company should have a state license to move pianos. In addition to this, the company must have a permanent address and years of experience in this industry.
Moving Insurance
Another important consideration is insurance. The professional movers carry an insurance policy to cover any unexpected loss. If somehow your piano gets damaged during transportation, the moving company should take responsibility. There are two types of liability covers. The first one is Full (Replacement) Value Protection, which is the most comprehensive plan. Under this policy, if your piano is lost, destroyed, or damaged while in your mover’s custody, the mover will either repair or replace the piano. The second type is the Alternative Level of Liability. This policy covers around 60 cents per pound per article.
Moving Equipment
The next thing to look at is the tools and equipment used by the moving company. The best movers invest in the latest tools to relocate bulky pianos safely. The company should have a spacious moving truck and other safety tools like moving straps, blankets, plastic wrap, dollies, and cranes for the heaviest pianos. A reliable mover will visit you before the moving day to look at your piano and measure all the moving space.
A Written Quote
The trustworthy moving companies never hesitate in providing a written quote of the job. Their representative will first perform a quick walk-through and then provide you a detailed estimate. Relocating your piano may cost you from $100 to $1000, depending on your instrument’s size and the distance of your move. To avoid paying hidden charges, make sure to get a clear written estimate. Also, never deposit cash or a large deposit before moving.
