International Piano Moving
Trust International Sea & Air Shipping, the leading international piano movers, to handle your cherished instrument with care, precision, and expertise.
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Start Your International Moving Journey
If you own a piano and have found this page while searching for overseas piano moving services, we deeply appreciate the importance of your valuable asset. We consider piano moving an art because we recognize that a piano is more than just a musical instrument. Every owner has a unique emotional attachment to it. And we handle these sentiments with the utmost care and attention, treating your piano as if it were our own. Our international piano movers excel in understanding techniques for moving various types of pianos. We are true masters of this art, ensuring your piano arrives without a dent. Call International Sea & Air Shipping today to discuss your piano’s move and let our experts provide you with a tailored solution for safe international transport.
The International Piano Moving Specialist
International Sea & Air Shipping is a pioneer in piano moving services, serving customers with personalized moving solutions for 75 years. Whether it’s a short trip or a long journey we provide comprehensive support. We ensure the expert-supervised and carefully monitored delivery of your valuable piano.
IMPORTANT: New Federal Regulations prohibit the import and export of pianos, so we remove ivory keys before packing and moving. Proposed rules include an “antique” exemption for pianos over 100 years old. However, proving the piano’s age and recent ivory repairs would disqualify it from this exemption.
We recommend speaking to our expert before scheduling the piano shipping service.
Are International Piano Movers Worth It?
When considering whether or not to hire professional movers, many people ask, “Are piano movers worth it?” The short answer is yes, especially for international moves. Pianos are valuable and delicate, requiring much more care than other household items. Our international piano movers bring a level of expertise, equipment, and insurance coverage that you simply can’t match on your own.
Our Expertise is Our Strength
We are a unique overseas piano moving company with seven decades of industry experience. We hold expertise in safely and successfully moving various pianos. When handling antique pianos, we address additional concerns and give special attention to packaging digital pianos. Similarly, upright, grand, and player pianos each require a unique approach for moving. Therefore, our expertise is vast and we apply strategic planning based upon the kind of asset we are moving.
Our Equipment is Our Asset
To move an asset safely and quickly, it is mandatory to use the right equipment. We have made substantial investments in state-of-the-art equipment specifically designed for moving pianos. Our equipment includes:
- custom-built crates
- dollies, ramps
- air-ride equipped vehicles
- piano moving boards
- climate-controlled storage facilities
They are the backbone of our business. They enable us to deliver the highest level of service to our customers.
Our Emotional Care is Our Exclusivity
We understand the emotional connection our customers have with their pianos. That’s why we go the extra mile to offer emotional care that distinguishes us from other moving companies. We maintain transparent communication, handle items with respect, accommodate special requests, and provide reassurance and support throughout the service.
Our Employees are Our Pride
Our team is the backbone of our business. When we hire our servicemen, we consider more than just their experience. We ensure that we hire friendly and professional servicemen who are highly trained, pay keen attention to detail, and have strong moral conduct. We believe that only with the right team can we win the hearts of our customers.
How Do We Carry Out Our Piano Moving Services?
Our piano moving services involve a series of steps and verified procedures. All packaging materials and equipment used in the process are thoroughly examined and approved by higher authorities before use. A safe trip is assured, as your precious cargo is secured within one of our fleet vehicles. Your piano will be carefully packaged and carried, with no detail spared.
Here is the step-by-step process of piano shipping from the team at International Sea & Air Shipping:
- Assessment and Planning (Pre-Moving Survey): We first evaluate the piano’s condition. Then, we strategically plan every aspect. This includes checking doorway dimensions, stairways, finding the best route to the destination, and package handling.
- Packing for Overseas Moving: We ensure that we use high-quality packing materials and custom-build crates for extra protection during the piano shipping services. We also focus on seasonal packing to protect the piano from harsh weather conditions.
- Loading and Transportation: We train and instruct our drivers to ensure a smooth and stable ride. We also have a team of servicemen ensuring safety during transport, and our backend team continuously monitors the tracking process.
- Customs Clearance: Our team handles all necessary paperwork to ensure that your piano clears customs smoothly and without delays, following the specific regulations of the destination country.
- Delivery and Unpacking: We utilize specialized equipment to unload and unpack the piano. We ensure the execution of the process without causing any damage or dents.
- Final Inspection: After placing the piano at the new destination, our team member conducts a detailed inspection of the object. Afterward, they officially confirm the service is complete.
OUR CLIENTS SPEAK VOLUMES
Our Case Study: We shipped a 7ft grand piano from Central London to Connecticut
We shipped a 7ft grand piano from central London to Connecticut via NYC. The process included a complex move. It involved navigating a heavy piano down narrow stairs in London, removing a window and banister, and later reassembling everything. When we completed our service, here’s what our happy customer said:
“The agent movers in London were extremely professional and did an outstanding job. After pickup and crating, I was given regular updates on the progress of the vessel that shipped the piano to the USA, and assistance with the customs clearance when it arrived. Finally, the local movers who delivered the piano to CT were courteous, on-time and extremely careful. Highly recommended for any overseas move”.
Shipping Methods for Pianos
When shipping pianos internationally, selecting the right method helps streamline the process and ensures your instrument is well-protected throughout its journey. There are two primary shipping methods: air freight and ocean freight. Air freight offers faster delivery but is more expensive, making it suitable for time-sensitive shipments. On the other hand, sea freight is more cost-effective, especially for larger pianos like grand or upright models, though it takes longer.
Both methods require careful packing, especially for long-distance moves. Our professional international piano movers will use custom crates and padding to protect your piano from damage during transit. If you’re shipping a piano by sea, additional precautions like moisture-resistant materials are recommended to protect it from exposure to humidity and weather changes.
The Types of Pianos We Ship
Our piano shipping services cover a wide range of piano types, from small uprights to grand pianos. We handle each type with care and expertise:
- Upright Pianos: These are the most common household pianos, and while they’re compact, they still require special care during transport.
- Baby Grand Pianos: With their delicate frames and intricate design, baby grands require custom-built crates for safe transport.
- Grand Pianos: Larger and heavier, grand pianos demand expert handling to ensure no part is damaged during disassembly, packaging, or shipping.
- Digital Pianos: Though lighter, digital pianos contain sensitive electronics that must be securely packed and cushioned to prevent damage.
No matter the type of piano, our team of expert movers ensures that every instrument is handled with the highest level of professionalism.
How to Ship a Baby Grand Piano
Shipping a baby grand piano internationally requires careful planning and protection. Here’s our streamlined process:
- Securing the Lid: The piano lid is lowered and secured to prevent movement during the journey.
- Disassembly and Wrapping: Legs and pedals are removed and individually wrapped to avoid damage.
- Padding the Body: The piano’s body is carefully wrapped in protective materials to preserve its finish.
- Custom Crating: A crate is custom-built to ensure the piano stays stable and protected during shipping.
- Transport: The crated piano is loaded onto a specialized vehicle and shipped via air or sea, depending on your needs.
How to Ship a Digital Piano Overseas
Shipping a digital piano overseas requires attention to its electronics. Here’s our process:
- Disassembling Parts: Stands and pedals are removed and packed separately.
- Protecting Electronics: The body, keys, and screens are wrapped in moisture-resistant materials.
- Custom Crating: The piano is placed in a crate to ensure it remains secure throughout its journey.
- Transport Options: Depending on your timeline, the piano can be shipped by air or sea.
- Monitoring: The piano’s condition is monitored throughout transit, ensuring it arrives safely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Moving a Piano Internationally
Mistakes during the piano shipping process can be costly, both in terms of repair bills and time lost. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Hiring inexperienced movers: Moving a piano is not a DIY project. Always hire experienced international piano movers.
- Using inadequate packing materials: Cheap or improper packing materials can lead to severe damage. Invest in professional crating services to ensure full protection.
- Not purchasing insurance: Shipping a piano without insurance is risky. Always ensure your piano is covered for potential damages.
- Ignoring customs regulations: Customs paperwork is a necessary part of piano shipping. Failing to prepare it in advance can result in costly delays.
How Much Does It Cost to Move a Piano Internationally?
Piano shipping is a delicate process, but it also comes with costs that vary depending on several factors. Understanding the breakdown of expenses will help you prepare financially and avoid surprises along the way. From the type of piano to the distance and packing requirements, the overall cost can differ significantly.
- Type of Piano: Larger pianos like grand or baby grand models are more expensive to move due to their size and weight. Upright and digital pianos cost less as they require fewer resources.
- Distance and Destination: The further the destination, the higher the cost. Rates vary based on the specific shipping route and international regulations.
- Packing and Crating: Professional packing and custom crating are essential to protect your piano, adding to the overall cost but ensuring safe delivery.
- Mode of Transport: Air freight is faster but more expensive, ranging from $5,000 to $15,000. Sea freight is more affordable, costing $1,000 to $5,000, but takes longer.
- Customs and Taxes: Customs duties and taxes vary by country, potentially adding several hundred to a few thousand dollars to the cost.
- Storage: Temporary storage services may also be necessary, adding flexibility but increasing costs.
To find out the exact price of shipping your piano to your international destination fill out our piano moving quote form.
Is It Worth It to Move a Piano Internationally?
Deciding whether to move a piano internationally depends on the value, both monetary and sentimental, of your instrument. For many owners, especially those with high-end or heirloom pianos, the cost of moving is justified when compared to replacing such a unique and valuable item.
Here’s why it may be worth it:
- Sentimental Value: If your piano has deep personal significance or is a family heirloom, its sentimental value alone can make moving it the best choice.
- Replacement Costs: High-quality pianos, particularly grand and baby grand models, are expensive to replace. Moving your piano may be more cost-effective than purchasing a new one.
- Condition and Craftsmanship: If your instrument is in excellent condition or a rare model, relocating it ensures you retain an instrument that can’t easily be replaced.
Our team of professional overseas piano movers ensures that your instrument is safely transported, allowing you to continue enjoying your cherished instrument no matter where life takes you.
Trust the Experts for Your International Piano Move
Entrusting your valuable instrument to experienced international piano movers is the best way to guarantee a safe and smooth relocation. With our proven expertise, specialized equipment, and dedication to providing the highest level of care, your piano will arrive at its destination in perfect condition, no matter where in the world you’re moving. Contact International Sea & Air Shipping for a personalized piano moving plan, and let our experts handle the rest.
FAQ
What Are a Few Important Details to Note in Piano Shipping?
When shipping a piano overseas, pad it and put it on a skid board. Bolt the skid board to a platform and pack it tightly to prevent movement. Then, label the crate and load it onto a truck for transportation to the freighter.
Insurance – We recommend purchasing insurance based on the replacement value of the item at the destination.
Ivory Ban – Shipping a piano with real ivory key tops internationally may cause issues with customs. Nations may remove the ivory as a condition of passage due to the ban on ivory production and sale. If the piano is over 100 years old, proper documentation may allow it to pass through customs. If the piano is under 100 years old, replace ivory with plastic key tops before shipping, or consider alternative solutions. Recover keys before the move to avoid damage during customs inspection.
Who Will Ship My Piano?
One of the first steps in shipping a piano is to find someone who will ship it. If you’ve found a company that can ship your piano overseas, they might work with a freight forwarder.
The freight forwarder consolidates the items for shipment into containers and will deal with the steamship line. The company will collect your items and deliver them to the freight forwarder. The forwarder will provide information about the steamship line, departure and arrival dates, and the container number.
Some foreign piano manufacturers wrap their pianos in airtight plastic to prevent excess humidity exposure.
Do digital pianos require the same care as acoustic pianos for international moves?
While digital pianos are lighter than acoustic pianos, they still require careful handling, especially for their electronic components. Proper packing, disassembly, and moisture protection are essential to prevent damage during long transit, particularly for sea freight where humidity is a concern.
How long does it take to move a piano internationally?
The time it takes to move a piano internationally depends on the destination and the shipping method chosen. Air freight typically takes a few days, but sea freight can take several weeks depending on the location, customs clearance, and shipping route.
How do I prepare my piano for an international move?
Remove any personal items, ensure the path for movers is clear, and consider having a professional inspect the piano beforehand. Secure any loose parts like covers or benches and communicate any special requests with the movers.
Can I ship a piano and other household items together?
Yes, you can. However, the piano will be crated separately for protection. Shipping household goods and piano together can be cost-effective, but ensure your moving company knows about the additional items for proper packing and handling.
