Moving a piano isn’t like moving a couch or a box of books. It requires actual planning, quite a lot of muscle, and careful handling. Grand or upright, weight is one of the first things to consider.
How Much Does a Piano Weigh?
Pianos are one of the heaviest and most difficult items to move – not just because of their size, but because they’re both incredibly heavy and surprisingly fragile. Inside each piano are delicate components that can be easily damaged if not handled properly. Moving a piano takes serious care, experience, and the right equipment. So, how much does a piano weigh? Let’s break it down.
Grand Pianos
Each grand piano has its own size, weight, and purpose. Here’s a simple breakdown of how much does a piano weigh:
- Petite Grand Piano. The smallest grand piano, usually under 5 feet in length. Weighs between 400-500 lbs. Great for smaller rooms, but still can be quite “loud.”
- Baby Grand Piano. Baby grand piano size is around 5′ to 5’5” long. How much does a baby grand piano weigh? It weighs between 500-650 lbs. Popular for homes thanks to its size and rich tone.
- Medium Grand Piano. About 5’5″ to 6’3″ long and weighs around 600 lbs. A nice middle ground between baby and full-size grands.
- Parlor Grand Piano (Recital Grand). A bit larger at roughly 6′ to 6’10”, this grand piano weight is about 750 lbs. Found in mid-size venues or music rooms.
- Ballroom Grand Piano. Larger grands used in big spaces like halls, typically 900-1,000 lbs. Offers deep, resonant sound.
- Concert Grand Piano. The largest of all, this upright piano size ranges from 7’4″ to 9’6″, and weighs around 900-1,200 lbs. Built for concert stages with the fullest, richest tone.
Upright Pianos
Upright pianos also come in different sizes and styles, each with its own weight and use case. Here’s a quick overview of how much does an upright piano weigh:
- Spinet Piano. The smallest upright piano, around 36″- 40″ tall and upright piano weight between 200-400 lbs. Easy to move and great for tight spaces.
- Console Piano. Slightly taller at 40″- 43″, this piano weight is about 350 -450 lbs. The most popular vertical piano for home use.
- Studio Piano. Taller and heavier at 44″- 48″, weighing 400-500 lbs. Can be found in schools and studios because of their rich sound and durability.
- Standard Upright Piano. Full-sized models can weigh anywhere from 200 to 1,000 lbs depending on the make, model, and age.
Electric Pianos
Just like regular ones, electric pianos come in a variety of styles, each designed for different needs – from beginner practice to professional performance. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Beginners Electric Keyboard. Lightweight and simple, these usually have 61 or 76 keys and average piano weight between 20-30 lbs. Great for kids or casual learners.
- Professional Digital Keyboard. Often full-size (88 keys) and designed for stage use. They weigh between 20-100 lbs depending on build and features.
- Standalone Digital Piano. These include a cabinet and built-in speakers, weighing around 50-110 lbs. Designed to feel and sound like acoustic pianos.
- Digital Grand Piano. The heaviest in the electric category, weighing 150-300 lbs. Mimics the look and feel of a grand piano while staying (somewhat) portable.
Tips For Moving a Piano
Moving a piano isn’t just about strength – it’s also about planning. First, never do it alone. Even a small upright piano is heavy and awkward to handle. Get at least two to three strong helpers. Second, get the right gear: moving blankets, heavy-duty tape, a dolly (for uprights), or a piano board (for grands). Wrap every part of the piano that could get scratched, including legs and pedals.
Third, measure everything! Check doorways, stairwells, and hallways to avoid nasty surprises. Plan the route in advance and protect your floors with towels or pads. And most importantly – if you’re even a little unsure, consider calling professionals. A single mistake can lead to serious injury or expensive damage to the piano or your home. When in doubt, it’s always safer to let experienced movers handle it.
Why You Should Utilize Our Piano Moving
Hiring RiverHills Moving means trusting your piano to a team of professionals that understands both its weight and its value. Our experienced piano movers know how to handle everything from upright to grand pianos with care, skill, and the right tools. Whether it’s a tricky staircase, tight hallway, or delicate flooring, we’ve seen it all and know it all. We also provide support for apartment moving, where space is often limited and precision matters.
Need it transported across town or out of state? No problem – our local movers and long distance movers make sure it arrives safely, wherever it needs to go. Don’t risk damaging your treasured instrument – let our pros do the heavy lifting for you. Call now and we’ll handle the move, so you can relax and enjoy the music.
FAQs About Moving a Piano: Weight, Team Size, and More
How much does a piano weigh?
Pianos vary widely in weight, ranging from around 300 to 1,200 pounds, depending on the type and size.
How much does an upright piano weigh?
Upright pianos typically weigh between 300 and 500 pounds, making them lighter and more compact than grand pianos.
How much does a baby grand piano weigh?
A baby grand piano generally weighs between 500 and 600 pounds, with variations depending on brand and materials.
How much does a grand piano weigh?
Grand pianos are the heaviest, often weighing 700 to over 1,200 pounds, especially in concert models.
