Piano Transport and Removal: Costs and Considerations

Need to move a piano? You’re probably feeling overwhelmed just thinking about the mammoth task ahead.

Shifting a piano isn’t like moving a couch—it’s heavy (ranging anywhere from 150kg to more than 500kg), fragile, and often one of the most valuable (and sentimental) items in your home. Moving a piano on your own can be extremely difficult and risky—especially if it’s large or needs to go up or down stairs. If not handled with care, it’s easy to cause damage—to your piano, your body, or your home. That’s why many Kiwis choose to hire professional piano movers to get the job done safely. Most come equipped with specialised equipment, protective gear, and years of experience.

If you’re wondering how much it costs to move a piano in New Zealand, the answer depends on several factors—like distance, the type and weight of the piano, and how complex the move is.

We’ve put together this handy guide to help you understand everything—from average piano moving costs to how to find the right help.

Want to skip the hassle? Or looking for a super affordable solution? Ezy Peazy can sort it all for you. Thanks to our extensive network of professional taskers up and down the country, affordable moving services – including specialist piano transport  - are just a few clicks away!

Piano moving in NZ: Cost breakdown 

You’ve decided not to move your piano yourself (a wise choice!)—but how much does it actually cost to use a piano moving company in New Zealand?

The answer depends on the type of piano, the distance of the move, and any access challenges (like narrow doorways or stairwells), but here’s a general guide to help you gauge potential costs:

Upright piano moving cost

For a standard upright piano, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $400 for a local move (within the same city). If stairs are involved or access is difficult, this cost can increase to $500 or more.

Grand piano moving cost

Grand pianos are larger, heavier, and more complex to transport than other types of pianos -  sometimes requiring partial disassembly, specialised equipment and a team of three or four movers to ensure safe handling. Similar to upright pianos, additional costs may apply if there are stairs or tight, awkward spaces involved. This means moving a grand piano can cost anywhere between $400 and $1,000.

Electronic/digital piano moving cost

A digital piano is probably the easiest type of piano to move, particularly if it’s on the lighter and smaller side. Some may be able to fit in the backseat of your car – meaning this is an option where DIY might be easier and cheaper. The cost for moving an electronic piano locally in New Zealand typically ranges from $90 to $150. Again, prices can increase when there are tricky spaces – like stairs and narrow doorways – involved.

Long-distance piano transport cost

Moving your piano across the country (e.g., Auckland to Wellington) can cost between $600 and over $1,000. Pricing depends on total kilometres, travel time, and fuel charges. In short: the further the move, the higher the cost.

Additional piano moving costs to consider

When it comes to moving a piano in NZ, there are often costs beyond just labour and mileage. Here are some common additional piano moving charges to watch for:

• Stair or hoist fees:
  If your piano needs to be moved up or down stairs, expect to pay an extra $50–$100 per flight. For apartment dwellers or difficult access situations, a crane or hoist may be required—costing $300 to over $800. These fees cover the added labour, equipment, and time involved, and are typically added on top of the base moving cost. For example, if your base move costs $600, using a hoist could push the total over $1,000.
   
• Protective material fees:
  While some piano movers include materials like moving blankets, shrink wrap, and floor protection, others may charge extra. These fees typically range from $30 to $100, depending on the size of your piano and the level of protection required. Always ask what’s included before booking to avoid unexpected costs.
   
• After-hours or weekend piano mover rates:
  Some piano moving companies apply a surcharge for moves outside of standard business hours, on weekends, or on public holidays. These can range from 10% to 25% of the total cost. Booking during weekday hours can often help you avoid these fees and secure better rates.
   
• Piano moving insurance:
  While basic transit insurance may be included by your piano movers, it doesn’t always cover the highest risk parts of the move—like loading and unloading. That’s often when most damage occurs. Consider asking your mover about full coverage options or check with your home and contents insurer to see if you can extend your policy to include moving your piano. Some insurance providers also offer specialist transit insurance which could be worth looking into.
   
• Refuse station fees (piano disposal):
  Sadly, all items reach the end of their life at some point – and pianos are no different. If your piano is beyond repair and needs to be disposed of, some movers offer piano removal and disposal as an add-on service. While some may include refuse station fees in the quote, others treat it as a separate charge. If you’re saying goodbye to an old or damaged instrument, be sure to confirm these costs in advance. Pricing tends to be calculated based on weight. The heavier your instrument, the more you’re likely to pay.

Piano moving costs: DIY or piano moving company?

While piano mover rates may seem high—and estimates can vary widely—DIY moving can come with hidden costs.

Hiring a moving truck, ramps, or a piano trolley adds up quickly. You also risk damaging your home or piano. Insurance excess alone can cost $250–$400.

When you factor in these costs, hiring a professional starts to feel like a smart investment.

At Ezy Peazy, we recommend using a specialist—especially for heavier or more complex moves. Professional piano movers bring years of experience and equipment that make a real difference.

How to identify reputable piano movers in New Zealand

• Specialised piano moving experience. Not all movers are experienced in moving pianos. Look for companies that specifically mention piano moving in their services, and have experience handling different types – like upright, grand and digital pianos
   
• Positive customer reviews. This probably goes without saying, but be sure to check out online reviews – such as on Google and Facebook. Reputable movers will have consistent 4-5 star reviews and feedback from customers that mention their professionalism and care
   
• Transparent piano moving estimates. Reputable companies will often offer clear, itemised piano moving quotes that outline the costs of labour, equipment, insurance and any additional fees.
   
• Proper piano moving equipment and protection. A good mover will use piano dollies, ramps, padding and lifting straps and will explain how they’ll protect your piano and your home during the moving process.
   
• Good communication and responsiveness. Reliable piano moving companies will respond quickly, arrive on time, and communicate clearly. If they’re hard to get hold of, that could be a red flag!

New Zealand piano moving companies to consider

• Piano Movers Auckland: Specialising in piano transportation for over 10 years, Piano Movers Auckland offers safe, professional piano moving in Auckland.
   
• Auckland Movers Packers: Offering a huge range of different moving services, including piano transport, Auckland Movers Packers prioritises safety and care
   
• Mr Shifter: Describing themselves as the go-to piano mover in Wellington – Mr Shifter is experienced in handling pianos of all shapes, sizes and types.
   
• Big Camel: Moving a piano can affect the way it sounds. In addition to piano moving services , Wellington-based company, Big Camel, also offers piano tuning services
   
• Fats Boys Ltd: with over 40 years in the moving business Christchurch-based Fats Boys Ltd offers expert piano moving services as part of their comprehensive range of moving services. 
   
• Truck About: Truck About offers piano moving in Christchurch. Their website includes detailed information covering exactly how they approach each piano move.  

Let Ezy Peazy take the stress out moving your piano

Moving a piano doesn’t have to be overwhelming—or ridiculously expensive. Ezy Peazy makes it simple to connect with experienced, reliable piano movers near you at a price that suits your budget. Just list your job on the Ezy Peazy platform and receive competitive offers from skilled taskers who know how to handle pianos safely and efficiently. Whether you’re moving an upright, baby grand, or digital piano, with Ezy Peazy you can compare prices, read real customer reviews, and choose a mover who fits both your needs and your wallet.

From moving a piano within your home, to helping you transport it across the city, your friendly tasker can cover it all.

So, what are you waiting for? With Ezy Peazy, affordable piano movers near you are just a few clicks away!

About Ezy Peazy

Ezy Peazy connects Kiwis with skilled professionals across New Zealand to help get all sorts of jobs done. Founded in 2019, we’ve built a wide network of skilled, highly rated taskers across New Zealand.

From furniture removal and household repairs through to landscaping and kitset furniture assembly Ezy Peazy makes it convenient, simple and safe to find reliable help for virtually any task you can think of. With transparent reviews, competitive pricing, and a user-friendly experience, Ezy Peazy is transforming the way tasks are completed across the country.