Shipping Cost from Chengdu to Sacramento, California

A grand piano (weighing between 500 to 1,300 pounds) will cost substantially more to ship than an upright piano (typically weighing 300 to 900 pounds). For instance, shipping a piano internationally can cost up to $5,000, with costs varying based on the type and size of the piano.

Piano mover costs vary widely, typically $200–$600 for local uprights, $400–$1,000+ for local grands, and $1,000–$2,500+ for long-distance moves, with bigger pianos (concert grands) and complex situations (stairs, crating, long distances) significantly increasing the price, potentially reaching thousands for international shipping. Key factors are piano type (upright vs. grand), distance, number of stairs, and special handling.

A piano dolly helps, but hiring specialized piano movers is generally much better and safer than DIY moving, even with a dolly, because pianos are incredibly heavy (often 1000+ lbs), fragile, and require specific equipment (like skid boards for grands, specialized dollies, ramps, padding) and expertise to avoid severe damage or injury, especially with stairs or valuable instruments. While a dolly provides easier rolling on flat surfaces, it doesn't replace the skills, insurance, and specialized tools professionals offer for navigating tricky spots and protecting your investment.