cost of moving a baby grand from New York to Italy

by Claudia
(New York, NY)

I'd like to know the cost of moving my piano from Manhattan, NY to Jesolo (near Venice), Italy.
I'd like to know how long it would take and if the piano could be negatively affected by the move at all, and if so, in what ways. Thanks.

Reply

I can't quote for the piano shippers who you are going to have to search out for yourself.
Do use an professionally experienced piano shipper, who will prepare your piano properly for the journey.

The cost will be affected by a number of factors including any removal or delivery complications (such as stair or lift work), the quality of crating, the urgency of the shipment, and the value of the piano which may affect the crating and which will certainly affect the insurance.

I am based UK, and insurance matters including advice are strictly regulated. I know nothing about US regulations or practices, but will say this:

Insurance
Take time to research and understand the issues. Don't get sold an inadequate package for your particular needs. My advice is that it may be preferable to take out insurance independent of the shippers and movers...

...If they have sold a policy on commission there has to be a conflict of interest in expecting them to pursue a claim on your behalf...possibly against themself.
For example: In the UK it is still unclear whether the authorities have successfully resolved this conflict.

To assist you here are some considerations your cover should include:-
(Courtesy of P.A.F Insurance of CA, whose website I raided for research. I do not know them, but it would be improper not to acknowledge them.)

1. Full replacement value, not depreciated cash value. Multiple coverage options: catastrophic, basic risk and all risk.

2. All new or used items in all conditions.

3. Any relevant destinations both domestic and international.

4. All modes of transport: Ocean, air(?), and land.

5. The full value of your goods not one based on weight.

6. the policy must accept any and every carrier or moving company involved.

8. Coverage is provided direct from insurers with the highest industry ratings for financial strength and claims payment.

9. Your insurance coverage should be Primary which means you can claim on it immediately - without having to establish the limits of liability of any of the parties who might have been involved in the move.

...And back to me - Additionally be aware that several handlers will be involved including port authorities, customs, as well as the local delivery people and shippers.

also It is usual to exclude liability caused by self packing and you should be careful that any self packing does not exclude ALL claims.

and finally When your piano gets to Italy schedules are going to be out of your hands, so make sure you have a contact with the agent with whom you can properly liaise.
This will ensure that you do not incur unexpected extra charges through confusion of times, dates, or even destinations. (destinations...example - do you know any parking or access restictions or delivery obstacles which could cause delays or extra work?)

Let the piano settle for a couple of weeks before having it tuned.

Stephen (student-movers-forum.com)

Hope this helps... and I would be very interested to hear how your piano moves goes.

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