Category : Moving Tips

When it comes time to move, many people understandably worry about their pianos. Unlike guitars and drum sets, the average person can’t simply move a piano without professional help. So, how much do piano movers cost?

It costs an average of $450 to move a piano, but it can cost $2,000 or more for long-distance moves. You may pay as little as $150 to move a small piano a short distance without obstacles like narrow halls and staircases. Piano movers often charge between $1.25 and $10 per mile depending on the distance and cost of gas in the area.

Additional charges include up to $100 per staircase. In some cases, the piano movers may need to use a crane to hoist your piano. In that case, you’ll almost certainly pay between $1,000 and $2,000. Let’s take a deep dive into the cost factors that determine how much you’ll spend on moving a piano.  

How Much Does Moving a Piano Cost?

It costs an average of $450 to move a piano, but it varies by type, location, labor fees, and how challenging it is. Piano movers often charge a flat rate, but they may charge you for labor per hour. The lighter the piano is and the easier it is to move, the cheaper it will cost. Let’s look at the main factors that affect how much piano movers cost.

Difficulty

Obstacles that make it harder to move a piano, such as staircases, add to the overall cost. This is understandable as pianos way between 300 and 1,200 pounds. Piano movers charge an average of $70 per staircase. On the low end, you can expect to pay $40 per staircase, or $110 on the high end.

However, some piano movers charge per step. In that case, it typically costs up to $10 per step. You must also pay extra the movers use a crane to move the piano. This is only necessary if the piano is located several stories up, and it may need to be moved out through a window.

In that case, you can expect to pay up to $2,000 or more to move the piano. Hoisting a piano is a tricky and time-intensive process. It costs $750 on the low end, but it may be necessary if it would be too risky to move it down a staircase.

Mileage

Distance is another critical factor in how much piano movers cost, and that’s because they charge mileage. In some cases, piano movers simply charge flat rates for local moves. That said, you can expect to spend up to $10 per mile for long-distance moves.

Depending on the service, distance, and piano size, you may only pay as little as $1.25- $2.50 per mile. The cost also varies based on gas prices in the service area.

Labor

Labor is typically built into the cost that piano movers charge. Piano movers typically charge flat rates that factor in at least 2-3 hours of labor for local moves. This includes the preparation and movement of the piano before additional costs, such as mileage.

The average hourly rate for piano movers is $50 per person, but it varies. It’s important to ask whether you’re paying an hourly or flat rate when you request a quote.

Flat labor rates are often based on the size, weight, and type of piano. For example, you’ll pay a smaller flat labor rate to move a spinet than a grand piano in most cases.

Cost to Move a Piano By Type

There are four main types of pianos: grands, baby grands, upright, and spinets. They each vary in size, weight, and how difficult they are to move. Let’s explore how the type of piano you have affects how much it will cost to move.

Grand

It costs between $300 and $2,000 to move a grand piano. That said, you can only expect to spend $300 on local, short-distance moves. Moving a grand piano can be quite expensive because of how big they are, which makes it difficult to move them.

Grand pianos way up to 1,200 pounds, or 500 pounds on the low end. Because of that, piano movers will typically charge more to move them down staircases. It’s also often necessary to hoist grand pianos with a crane, and that can add hundreds of dollars to the cost.

Baby Grand

While baby grand pianos aren’t as big as grand pianos, they still weigh up to 600 pounds. Because of that, it typically requires a crew of at least 3 people to move a baby grand piano. It costs as little as $250 to move a baby grand locally, but long-distance moves cost $1,200-$2,000.

Upright

On the low end, upright pianos weigh 300 pounds, but they can weigh up to 800 pounds. The cost to move upright pianos varies by weight and distance, and it costs between $150 and $1,200. Factors such as distance, gas prices, and staircases can add hundreds of dollars to the cost.

Spinet

The cheapest piano to move is a spinet. Not only are they small and compact, but they’re also light and easy to move. Piano movers charge an average of $200 to move spinet pianos locally. A type of upright piano, spinets are significantly cheaper to move than most pianos.

You don’t have to worry about exorbitant additional costs, such as hoisting, with spinet pianos in most cases. However, you must still pay up to $100 per staircase depending on the piano movers. It costs between $600 and $2,000 to move a spinet piano long-distance.

So, How Much Do Piano Movers Charge?

Piano movers typically charge between $150 and $2,000. The average cost to move a piano is $450, but it varies by type, weight, and distance. Additional costs include up to $100 per staircase and $1.25-$10 per mile. Upright pianos and spinets are the lightest and cheapest to move, while grand pianos are the priciest.

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Hiring a moving company is the first step to alleviating the many stresses of moving. However, figuring out how many movers you need for the job is easier said than done. So, how many movers do I need?

You only need 2 movers for a studio apartment, and 2-3 movers for a 2-3-bedroom home. Homes with 3-5 or more bedrooms require 3-6 movers depending on how much furniture you have. Bigger moving crews are necessary if you have large furniture that needs to be disassembled. Obstacles like tight halls and steep staircases also typically require more movers.

For example, 2 movers may be enough for a 3-bedroom home that is one level. However, 3 movers are optimal for 2-story, 3-bedroom homes with steep stairs and lots of furniture. Follow along as we explore the factors that determine how many movers you need.

How Many People Do You Need to Move?

Most people need between 2 and 6 movers. That said, it varies based on your time frame and how much furniture you have. For example, 2 movers are typically enough for a studio or 1-2 bedroom. Studios and 1-2-bedroom apartments typically take 2-5 hours to move.

However, let’s say you can only afford the movers for one hour. In that case, you may want to add a third mover to ensure the process goes faster. The same applies to 3-bedroom apartments and big houses with several rooms and lots of furniture.

That said, you will need up to 6 movers when you move from a house with 4 or more bedrooms. The extra furniture and typically bigger floorplan means that the move can take up to 6-10 hours between loading and unloading.

Number of Bedrooms	Movers Required
Studio	2
1-2	2
2-3	2-3
3-4	3
4-5	4
5+	4-6

How to Determine How Many Movers You Need

Everything from accessibility and amount of furniture to budget affects how many movers you need. The consultation process is necessary to figure out how many movers you need. However, several factors can give you a great idea of what’s required for the big moving day.

Amount of Furniture

How much furniture you have is the biggest factor in how many movers you need. For example, studio apartments and 1-2-bedroom homes don’t have as much furniture as 3-4 bedroom ranches. That’s why you typically need 2 movers for a small apartment and up to 4 movers for a 4-bedroom ranch.

Granted, not every homeowner with a 3-4 bedroom house has lots of furniture. The consultation process will tell you how many movers you need based on how much furniture you have. That said, you can typically expect to need one mover per bedroom once you get past 2-3-bedroom homes.

Budget

How many movers you hire for your moving team likely has a lot to do with your budget. However, some people mistakenly think that hiring fewer movers will make the job cheaper. On the contrary, small moving teams typically take longer to pack, load, and unload your belongings.

Because of that, you may have to pay more than you would if you simply added another person or two to the team. A large moving team is unnecessary for a studio or 1-2-bedroom apartment, but having more hands on deck is essential for big homes.

Accessibility

How difficult it is to navigate your house affects how many movers you need. For example, narrow halls and steep staircases can make moving quite challenging. While 2 movers may be enough for a 3-bedroom apartment, a 3-bedroom home with poor accessibility could benefit from an extra mover.

This is a safety concern in many ways. A spotter is typically necessary when moving large furniture items down a flight of stairs. That’s not possible if you only have 2 or 3 movers and they’re all carrying furniture.

Large & Fragile Items

Does your home have lots of large items that must be taken apart? If so, this will affect how many movers you need. For example, a 3-4 bedroom home without much furniture may only need 3 movers.

However, a 4^th mover is typically necessary if your home has lots of furniture that is hard to take apart. For example, multiple beds, large dining room tables, cabinets, and sectional couches take time to disassemble. In that case, you may want to be cautious and add an extra mover.

Moving company consultants carefully inspect your furniture and belongings to see how many movers are necessary. They may also recommend extra movers if you have many fragile items. For example, large antiques, glass art, and even pianos require extra movers in most cases. When in doubt, ask the consultant what they recommend for the fastest and safest move.

Is It Better to Have 2 or 3 Movers?

It’s better to have 3 movers than 2 unless you’re moving out of a studio apartment. Hiring more movers means it will take less time and go much more smoothly. Sure, you must pay an extra mover.

However, it’s typically worth it to pay an extra mover than pay a smaller moving team for more hours. This is especially true if your home has lots of big furniture that needs to be taken apart before it can be loaded onto the truck. It also helps to hire an extra mover if you pay for a full packing service.

In that case, the moving crew will pack for you, and this can be time-consuming. Adding an extra set of hands will speed up the process. This also means that you’ll have an extra person to start loading boxes as they’re done being packed. More movers means it will be done faster, and you’ll get more bang for your buck.

So, How Many Movers Do You Need?

You need between 2 and 6 movers in most cases. Studios and 1-3-bedroom apartments only require 2-3 movers in most cases.

However, any home with 3 or more bedrooms typically requires 3-6 movers depending on how difficult it is and how much furniture you have. It’s typically worth it to hire a bigger moving team than a small team because it will take less time and possibly save money.

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To say that NYC is vibrant, chaotic, and unlike any other city would be an understatement. Moving within the Big Apple can be crazy because of the infrastructure, population, and tricky streets. It can also be expensive in many cases. So, how much do movers cost in NYC?

Movers in NYC charge an average of $1,200, but short-distance moves cost as little as $400-$500. Long-distance NYC moves cost up to $7,000 when you move to a different state. Moving from a studio apartment in NYC costs $400-$600, whereas a 3-bedroom apartment costs an average of $1,950 on the low end.

How many bedrooms, how much furniture, and how far the movers must travel affect the cost of the move. Follow along as we explore how much movers cost in NYC so you can budget for your big move.

Average Cost to Move in NYC?

It costs an average of $1,200 to move within NYC. Movers in NYC charge an average of $85 per hour. The total cost depends on how long the move takes and how many movers are on the team. Other factors, such as the services you choose, also affect the cost.

For example, special packages, like White Glove Service, can add hundreds of dollars to the cost. On the low end, your NYC move may cost as little as $400-$500. That said, your NYC move can exceed $5,000-$6,000 depending on how many bedrooms are in your house or apartment as well as the distance. 

NYC Movers Cost Factors

Whether it be the number of rooms or the movers’ labor rates, several factors affect the cost of moving within NYC. The location is another important factor, whether you’re moving within the city itself or one of the boroughs. Let’s look at the factors that affect the cost of NYC movers.

Number of Bedrooms

How many bedrooms your home has is the most important cost factor when it comes to NYC movers. The more bedrooms you have, the more furniture you have. That means the move will take longer in most cases and may require more movers.

Bedrooms	Average Cost
Studio	$600
1	$850
2	$1,150
3	$1,950
4	$3,100
5+	$5,000+

Studio apartments are the cheapest, and movers charge an average of $600 before add-on costs. On the high end, moving from a studio apartment in NYC costs $750. However, it can cost as little as $400-$500 if you don’t have much furniture or are moving a short distance.

Moving out of a 1-2-bedroom apartment in NYC rarely costs more than $1,150 unless you’re moving far or request additional services. NYC movers become expensive when you get into 3-4 bedroom homes. That can cost anywhere between $1,600 and $4,500 or more on the low end. Homes with 5 or more bedrooms are the most expensive and moving may cost $5,000 or more.

Special Services

Most movers offer additional services that come with extra costs. This includes everything from packing and unpacking to moving insurance. Full packing is one of the most popular moving services, and it adds roughly $300-$1,500 to the cost.

This is a popular service because the movers pack and unpack for you which saves you plenty of time. However, this service also adds to how long the move takes, and that’s part of why it’s more expensive.

Another popular service is dismounting and re-mounting TVs. This adds an average of $240 to the cost, but it can cost as little as $110. Furniture disposal is a common moving service for people looking to declutter. This costs $140, on average, but it can cost $80 or less per piece of furniture depending on its size.

Large Items

Moving with large items is difficult, especially in NYC. That’s why most moving companies charge a premium for large items, such as pianos. This costs an average of $450, but it can cost over $1,000.

The wide price range is because of two major factors: the distance of the move, and the size of the piano. Moving a small piano a short distance will cost roughly $150-$450. However, a grand piano ways up to 1,200 pounds and costs $300-$2,000 to move.

Accessibility is also a big cost factor as many buildings in NYC aren’t ideal for moving pianos. In some cases, the moving crew may need to use a crane to hoist your piano, and that costs thousands of dollars.

Distance

Moving companies charge their customers based on the amount of furniture, the size of the crew, and the distance of the move. Of course, short-distance NYC moves are cheaper than long-distance moves. For example, moving from Manhattan to Queens may only cost $500.

However, moving from Manhattan to Florida may cost $7,000 or more. Not only is the cost of mileage more expensive, but you’re also paying the movers for more time. Each company is different, but you can expect to pay an average of 75 cents per mile for NYC movers. If you want to find out about New York To LA Move.

Labor

Labor is one of the biggest cost factors for NYC movers, and they charge between $60 and $120 per hour. Keep in mind that the hourly rate refers to each person’s rate on the moving crew. On the low end, you could pay up to $180 per hour for a crew of 3 movers. That said, in NYC, movers typically charge at least $100 per hour per person.

In some cases, the cost of labor is built into a flat rate. That’s not usually the case for local moves, however, so every hour counts. Because of that, it’s typically better to have more movers than less so the job goes by faster. Sure, you’ll pay more movers, but it will take less time and likely be more cost-effective than a smaller crew.

Supplies

While moving supplies are typically cheap, they can affect the overall cost of NYC movers. Some moving companies simply include the price of supplies in the cost of the move. Others will provide an itemized bill that includes the cost of boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and whatever else is needed.

You can expect to spend up to $220-$250 for moving supplies. However, you may be able to knock that price down if you provide moving supplies. For example, you can visit local recycling centers and stores to ask for cardboard boxes.

Insurance

Moving comes with several risks as your prized belongings are loaded onto a truck and driven around the city. NYC movers are quite careful, but there’s no guarantee that your favorite dresser won’t get damaged. That’s why moving companies offer insurance to cover the damage, and it costs roughly $300 to $3,000.

The cost varies between companies as well as how much coverage you want. You can typically expect to spend 1%-2% of the value of the items being moved. The more belongings you have, especially high-value items, the more you’ll spend on insurance.

We did not include gratitudes, so if you want to know how much to tip NYC movers read our post about it.

So, How Much Do NYC Movers Cost?

NYC movers cost an average of $1,200. Short-distance moves within NYC cost roughly $500, whereas long-distance moves cost up to $5,00-$7,000 when moving across states.

NYC movers typically carry an hourly minimum of $100-$120, but they may charge as little as $60 per hour per person. It’s worth the extra cost for moving insurance which costs 1%-2% of the value of your belongings and or property.

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Moving within NYC has never been easy. The intense traffic, crowded buildings, and tricky neighborhoods drive many people to hire moving companies. Moving crews in NYC must work hard and efficiently, and it’s not an easy job. Understandably, many people struggle with how much to tip movers in NYC.

Most people tip movers in NYC 15-20% of the overall cost of the move. The difficulty of the move, such as narrow halls and stairwells, should factor into the tip. It’s also important to consider how much furniture you have, how long it takes, and how well the crew does with your belongings. For an excellent job, tip up to 25%.

Wait until the crew is done to tip them so you can see the quality of their work. Follow along as we explore how much to tip movers in NYC so you can set aside cash for the big day.

How Much Do You Tip Movers in NYC?

Factors such as crew size, move difficulty, and how much furniture you have affect how much you tip movers in NYC. Let’s look at the main factors that determine how much cash you’ll want to set aside for movers.

1. Distance

Simple moves within NYC are relatively easy. That said, long-distance moves from NYC to another city or state can be quite challenging for the crew. Depending on the destination, the crew may have to spend several days away from home.

It’s important to consider this when you calculate the tip for a long-distance move. A tip between 15% and 25% is typically appropriate for long-distance moves. Keep in mind that long-distance moves are more expensive, so your tip will likely be high.

2. Moving Crew Efficiency

How good of a job the moving crew does will ultimately determine how much you tip them. That’s why you should tip the crew when they are done for the day. Everything from their efficiency and care to their attitudes should affect the tip.

For example, you can tip a hardworking and positive crew 20% or more. However, you may tip closer to 10%-15% if the crew damages items and is unfriendly.

3. Crew Size

The size of a moving crew has a lot to do with how well the move goes. Bigger crews can typically complete the job faster and more efficiently. This is often essential if you’re under a tight time frame and have lots of furniture to move.

Let’s say you plan to tip the crew 20% of the cost of the move. If the move costs $2,000, you would tip the crew $400 and split it up evenly amongst them. That said, you may want to inflate the tip if the crew is bigger since each person will get less than they would for a move with a small crew.

4. How Challenging the Move Is

It’s no secret that moving within NYC can be quite tricky. Narrow hallways, steep stairwells, and limited parking can make the job quite hard. This is especially true if you’re moving out of an old apartment building.

The moving crew may need to reserve the elevators for the move and take extra steps to protect the walls and floors. Your moving crew may also have to handle delicate items that are hard to handle and add to the difficulty. It’s important to consider the extra preparation and challenges when you calculate the tip.

For example, you may only tip 15% for a small, simple move that doesn’t entail scaling steep stairwells. However, it’s quite fair to tip 20% or more if the crew must navigate difficult terrain and haul heavy furniture under hard circumstances.

5. Size of the Haul

The size of the haul has a lot to do with how difficult it is. For example, it’s much harder to move from a 3-bedroom NYC home than a studio apartment. The bigger the home is, the more furniture there is. This also means that the crew must likely cover more ground.

In this case, it’s best to tip the moving crew closer to 20% or even higher for a particularly tough job and small crew.

Should You Tip Movers in Cash or Check?

While people typically tip movers in cash, checks are just as meaningful. That said, cash is often more convenient for the customer and the moving crew. Some people tip movers via a check to the moving company, and the moving company can handle it from there.

That is typically reserved for people who must keep track of the tip for tax purposes. Cash is the best way to make sure your tip gets evenly distributed amongst your NYC moving crew.

So, How Much Should You Tip Movers in NYC?

Tip movers in NYC up to 20% of the moving cost. Some people tip NYC movers up to 25% for outstanding work, especially if the job is tricky and involves fragile items. Consider the difficulty of the job, moving distance, crew size, and how well they do to calculate the tip.

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Moving out of state can be a daunting prospect, stirring up feelings of uncertainty and anxiety. The fear of moving out of state is not uncommon, but it’s essential to address and manage these emotions to ensure a smooth transition. In this article, we’ll provide you with practical strategies to cope with the fear and anxiety associated with relocating to a new state.

Acknowledge Your Emotions

The first step in dealing with the fear of moving out of state is to acknowledge your emotions. It’s entirely normal to feel anxious, worried, or even scared about leaving your familiar surroundings. Allow yourself to recognize and accept these feelings without judgment. Remember that many people experience similar emotions when facing a significant life change.

Seek Support and Information

One of the most effective ways to alleviate your fear is by seeking support and gathering information about your new state. Reach out to friends or family who have experience with out-of-state moves for advice and reassurance. Additionally, conduct thorough research about your destination, including its culture, climate, cost of living, and available amenities. The more you know, the more in control and confident you’ll feel.

Create a Detailed Plan

A well-structured plan can significantly reduce anxiety about your move. Break down each task into manageable steps and set realistic deadlines. Having a clear roadmap will help you stay organized and alleviate worries about the unknown.

Focus on the Positives

While it’s natural to dwell on the fear of the unknown, try to shift your focus to the positive aspects of your move. Think about the opportunities and adventures that await you in your new state. Consider the chance to meet new people, explore different places, and grow personally and professionally. By reframing your perspective, you can turn your fear into excitement.

Practice Self-care

Moving can be stressful, so it’s crucial to prioritize self-care during the process. Maintain a healthy routine that includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep. Engage in relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing exercises to manage anxiety. Surround yourself with a support network of friends and family who can offer emotional assistance throughout your transition.

Stay Connected

Leaving behind friends and loved ones can contribute to the fear of moving out of state. To ease this anxiety, make an effort to stay connected with your existing social network. Arrange regular video calls or visits if possible. Additionally, start building new connections in your new state by joining local groups or participating in community events. This can help you feel more rooted and less isolated.

Coping with the fear of moving out of state requires understanding your emotions, seeking support and information, creating a detailed plan, focusing on the positives, practicing self-care, and staying connected. By implementing these strategies, you can effectively manage your anxiety and turn your out-of-state move into a successful and fulfilling experience.

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The key to a successful apartment search is starting early. Begin your search at least two to three months before your desired move-in date. This timeframe allows you to explore a wide selection of available apartments in different neighborhoods, giving you the opportunity to find the perfect fit for your needs and preferences.

Consider Seasonal Trends

Seasonal trends can impact the availability and pricing of apartments. In many markets, rental demand is higher during the spring and summer months, leading to increased competition and potentially higher rent prices. Conversely, the fall and winter months may offer lower prices and less competition. Consider your budget and timing preferences when deciding on the best season to begin your apartment search.

Factor In Lease Renewals

If you’re planning to move when your current lease expires, be mindful of lease renewal timelines. Apartment communities often require notice of your intent to renew or vacate well in advance. Ensure you provide the necessary notice to avoid any complications with your current lease and to align your move-out date with your new apartment’s availability.

Balance Timing and Flexibility

While timing is important, it’s also essential to be flexible with your apartment search. Sometimes, the perfect apartment may become available outside of your initial timeline. Be prepared to adjust your move-in date if you come across an apartment that checks all your boxes. Flexibility can lead to finding the ideal rental unit.

Plan for the Application and Approval Process

Once you’ve found the perfect apartment, keep in mind that the application and approval process can take time. Landlords or property management companies may require background checks, credit checks, and references. Ensure you have all the necessary documentation and information readily available to expedite the application process.

Consider Your Budget and Financial Preparedness

Before starting your apartment search, assess your budget and financial preparedness. Determine how much you can comfortably afford for rent, utilities, and other associated costs. Having a clear understanding of your budget will help you narrow down your options and avoid falling in love with apartments that are beyond your financial reach.

Visit and Inspect Apartments

Schedule visits to the apartments you’re interested in to inspect them in person. While online listings provide valuable information, seeing the apartment firsthand allows you to assess its condition, size, and suitability for your needs. Take note of any maintenance issues or concerns during your visits.

Negotiate Terms and Lease Details

Once you’ve found an apartment you’re interested in, don’t hesitate to negotiate lease terms and details with the landlord or property manager. You may have room to discuss rent, lease length, or included utilities. Effective negotiation can lead to more favorable lease terms.

Understand Lease Agreements and Policies

Before signing a lease, thoroughly review the lease agreement and the policies of the apartment community. Understand your responsibilities as a tenant, including rent payment schedules, maintenance requests, and policies regarding pets, if applicable. Clear comprehension of the terms will prevent any surprises during your tenancy.

Prepare for Moving Day

As your move-in date approaches, make preparations for moving day. Coordinate with the apartment management to ensure a smooth transition. Create a checklist for packing and transferring utilities, and schedule professional movers or enlist the help of friends and family.

Finding the perfect apartment requires careful consideration of timing, budget, lease renewals, flexibility, the application process, financial preparedness, in-person visits, negotiation, understanding lease agreements, and preparing for moving day. By following these guidelines, you can navigate your apartment search effectively and secure the ideal rental unit that suits your lifestyle and preferences.

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