Shipping Cost from Beijing to Rockville, Maryland

Moving a piano costs roughly $150-$650 locally and $500-$2,500+ for long distances, depending heavily on the piano's type (grand is more), weight, distance, and obstacles like stairs, which add significant fees. Expect to pay more for larger pianos (concert grands) and complex moves involving many steps or tight spaces, potentially increasing costs to several thousand dollars, while simple upright moves are at the lower end.

A piano dolly is cheaper for very simple, short moves on flat ground with helpers, but hiring professional piano movers is vastly better and safer for valuable, delicate pianos, especially if stairs, tight corners, or long distances are involved, because professionals have the specialized equipment (like skid boards, straps, dollies) and expertise to prevent costly damage and injury, making them worth the investment for peace of mind. DIY with a dolly risks significant structural damage, rendering the piano untunable.

Moving a 500 lb piano requires preparation, proper equipment (like a heavy-duty dolly, straps, and blankets), and at least two strong people, focusing on slow, controlled movements, protecting the finish with padding, securing the keyboard, and using lifting straps for leverage, especially when navigating stairs or tight corners where it might need to go on its side temporarily. Always use the piano's legs for tilting, lift with your legs, and never rely on the small built-in casters for transport.