In this case, I need the help of local musical persons with moving experience. I know there are lots of music-types who read this journal and don’t comment frequently or at all; you’re likely the people I need to hear from in this instance.
Have any of my gentle readers (or their families or friends) in the Montreal area had experience with a reliable piano moving company whose rates won’t gut a bank account? If so, could you leave the company’s name, a brief summary of the fees you paid and your impression of their service in the comments? If you have their contact info that would be a terrific bonus, but if all you remember is their name I have excellent research skills and can track the other info down on my own.
No, we do not own a piano. Rates for moving one must be factored into the budget for the purchase of such an instrument, however, so I need to be armed with the appropriate knowledge as I continue my search for one. If it makes any difference, we’d be moving an apartment-sized piano under four feet high.
Thank you in advance, gentle readers!
I wish I could recommend a service for you.
I would suggest however that as you search you can talk to the salesguy. I don’t know, but I am guessing that the stores would have either their own service or use an outside service that they trust. It might give you an idea in regards to price as well, while waiting for a recommendation.
Calling stores to see who they usually recommend will be my second recourse. We’re not looking to buy a new one; we’re looking at used ones via private sales, so delivery’s not included and there’s no salesperson to talk with. Although I did ask a private seller today if he knew of a company he could recommend.
We were pleased with Kenwood moving (I can get you their number), but they did our house move, not a piano move. And Westmount Moving also seemed very good on the phone, had they ever called me back to firm up details (which was why we didn’t go with them for the move.)
Wish I had something more detailed to offer, but I can dig up both numbers and pass them along if you like.
I used to see a truck regularly parked in front of the Steinway shop on Sherbrooke when I’d go do deposits for work, but haven’t seen them of late.
I used Panneton to move my piano which is a rather large sized antique upright. They have moved it three times now and they have even lugged it in and out a third story apartment in the Plateau – those great places with the old exterior wooden stair caes! lol. I found them very careful and gentle, but I believe their prices were just average. At least it is out of season for moving rates.
Thanks, everyone! I’ve called a few places, been directed to other companies, and now have a decent idea of what the average cost is to move a piano. If anyone’s interested, it ranges from $175 to $250.