Getting rid of an old piano might seem straightforward until you try to move one. Whether it’s an upright gathering dust in the corner or a baby grand taking over your living room, the reality is this: pianos are incredibly difficult to remove, and the costs aren’t as simple as you’d think.
Most people don’t realize just how complicated piano removal costs can be. They expect to call a junk removal service, post it online, and have it gone the next day. In reality, you’re dealing with a 300- to 1,200-pound instrument that is structurally delicate and nearly impossible to lift without proper equipment.
This is where things get costly, confusing, and often frustrating. Let’s break down what affects the price of piano removals, what your options are, and how to avoid the most common mistakes.
Average Cost of Piano Removal
Depending on the type of piano and your location, the price to remove a piano can range from $150 to $600. Here’s a more specific breakdown:
- Upright piano (standard removal): $150–$300
- Baby grand or grand piano: $250–$600
- Difficult access (stairs, tight hallways): Additional $50–$200
- Piano disposal with junk removal services: $150–$500
- Eco-friendly piano recycling/disposal: $200–$400
Why the wide range? It depends on weight, location, accessibility, and service type. A piano on the ground floor near an exit is one thing. Another is a grand piano on the second floor with a spiral staircase.
What Drives the Cost?
Size and Weight
Uprights are heavy. Baby grands are heavier. Concert grands are massive. Weight alone affects what equipment is needed and how many people.
Distance and Location
If you live in a rural area, expect higher fees due to travel time. Urban environments with tight spaces may also require more time and skill.
Disposal Method
Properly recycling a piano costs more than dumping it in a landfill. Some companies disassemble and repurpose parts like wood, metal, and ivory, but that comes with a fee.
Free Piano Removal: Real or Myth?
You’ve probably searched “free piano disposal near me” or “how to get rid of a piano for free.” Technically, it’s possible. But here’s the reality:
- Nonprofits rarely accept old pianos anymore. Most don’t have the resources to transport or repair them.
- Curbside pickups are hit or miss. You might get lucky on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, but most people don’t want to move a 600-pound instrument themselves.
- Free services often come with conditions. You might have to pay for the moving, even if the pickup is “free.”
So, don’t count on a no-cost option unless your piano is in perfect condition and near a door.
Should You DIY?
Trying to remove a piano yourself? Think again.
The risk of injury is high, even with a group of strong friends. You also risk damaging the instrument, floor, walls, or vehicle. And if someone gets hurt, it could cost you far more than the removal fee.
Some people attempt to dismantle the piano before hauling it out. While this sounds easier, disassembling a piano takes hours and specialized tools and generates a lot of debris.
Professional Piano Removal: What You’re Paying For
Hiring a professional piano removal company means you’re paying for the following:
- Safe handling of a large, fragile instrument
- Proper equipment (dollies, straps, ramps, trucks)
- Licensed and insured movers
- Legal and eco-friendly disposal
- Zero stress on your part
It’s about preserving safety, avoiding damage, and gaining peace of mind.
Conclusion:
Holding on to an unused piano out of sentiment or indecision? You’re not alone. But the longer you wait, the more difficult and costly it becomes to remove. Old pianos lose value quickly and become less attractive to buyers, charities, and musicians.
If your piano is no longer used, damaged beyond repair, or simply in the way, it’s time to let it go. You don’t need to feel guilty. What you do need is a plan.
So, challenge the idea that keeping that old piano is an act of nostalgia. Sometimes, the smartest thing you can do is clear space. Choose a method that aligns with your goals, timeline, and budget. Don’t wait for the perfect time. Take control and let it go.