Specialty Item Moving Cost: Pianos, Safes, Pool Tables and More (2025)
Heavy, fragile, or unusually shaped items cost extra to move — and for good reason. Pianos, gun safes, pool tables, and hot tubs require specialized equipment, extra crew members, and different techniques. Undisclosed specialty items cause last-minute charges on moving day. Here's exactly what movers charge for the most common specialty items.
Upright Piano
$150–$400
ground floor
Gun Safe
$100–$600
by weight
Pool Table
$300–$750
slate only
Stair Fee
+$50–$400
per flight
Get a Moving Estimate That Includes Specialty Items
Our calculator lets you select pianos, safes, treadmills, and more — so your estimate includes everything upfront.
Always disclose specialty items when getting quotes. Movers who discover undisclosed heavy items on moving day can charge a premium or refuse the job. Get every specialty item fee included in your binding written estimate.
Specialty Item Moving Cost Guide
Local move fees for individual specialty items, not including the base hourly rate for the rest of your move. Stair fees are additional and listed separately.
| Item | Weight | Base Cost | Stair Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upright Piano | 400–800 lbs | $150–$400 | +$50–$150/flight |
| Baby Grand Piano | 500–1,200 lbs | $250–$650 | +$100–$250/flight |
| Concert Grand Piano | 600–1,400 lbs | $400–$1,200+ | Special assessment |
| Gun Safe (under 500 lbs) | 200–500 lbs | $100–$275 | +$50–$150/flight |
| Gun Safe (500+ lbs) | 500–1,500 lbs | $250–$600+ | +$150–$400/flight |
| Treadmill / Peloton | 150–350 lbs | $75–$200 | +$50–$100/flight |
| Pool Table (Slate) | 700–1,000 lbs | $300–$750 | +$150–$300/flight |
| Arcade Machine | 200–600 lbs | $150–$400 | +$75–$200/flight |
| Hot Tub (empty) | 500–900 lbs | $350–$800 | N/A (ground floor) |
| Motorcycle | 300–800 lbs | $150–$400 | N/A |
| Antique Furniture | Varies | $75–$300+ | +$50–$100/flight |
| Large Fish Tank (100+ gal) | 800–1,500 lbs full | $200–$600 | Drain required |
| Riding Lawnmower | 300–600 lbs | $100–$300 | N/A |
| Large Artwork / Sculpture | Varies | $100–$500+ | +$50–$150 |
* Specialty-item fees only — these are added to your overall move cost, not all-in prices. Stair fees are per flight at origin and/or destination. Long-carry fees may also apply.
5 Rules for Moving Specialty Items
Specialty Item Moving FAQ
How much does it cost to move a piano?
Moving an upright piano locally costs $150–$400. Baby grand pianos cost $250–$650. Concert grands cost $400–$1,200+. Stairs add $50–$250 per flight. Always hire a piano specialist — standard movers often lack the dolly systems, padding, and technique to move pianos safely. Your piano should also be tuned after moving (add $100–$200).
How much does it cost to move a gun safe?
Moving a gun safe under 500 lbs costs $100–$275 for a local move. Heavier safes (500–1,500 lbs) cost $250–$600+. Stairs add $50–$400 per flight depending on weight. The safe must be completely empty before movers will touch it. Some movers refuse large safes — confirm before booking.
Do movers charge extra for heavy items?
Yes — any item over 250–300 lbs typically incurs a specialty item surcharge. This covers the extra manpower, specialized equipment (dollies, straps, ramps), and liability associated with heavy items. Always declare specialty items when getting quotes so the fee is included in your written estimate.
Should I hire a specialty mover or a general mover for a piano?
For grand pianos and antique or very valuable upright pianos, hire a piano specialty mover — they have the right equipment and technique, and their insurance covers instruments specifically. For standard upright pianos on ground-floor moves, an experienced general mover with piano experience is usually sufficient and cheaper.
Does homeowner's insurance cover specialty items during a move?
Standard mover's liability (released value protection) covers items at $0.60 per pound — which means a 600-lb piano is covered for only $360 in the event of damage. For high-value specialty items, purchase full-value protection ($1–$2 per $100 of declared value) from the mover, or a moving insurance rider from your homeowner's policy.
What items will movers refuse to move?
Most movers will not transport: hazardous materials (gasoline, paint, chemicals), firearms and ammunition (many refuse even empty gun safes if not properly secured), plants, perishable food, propane tanks, and sometimes very large fish tanks. Always disclose specialty items when booking.
Related Moving Cost Resources
These estimates are for informational purposes only and are not binding quotes. Specialty item fees vary by mover, item condition, access, stairs, distance, and market. Always disclose specialty items when requesting quotes and ensure all fees are included in your written binding estimate. Instamovequote provides fair market pricing guidance only.