Shipping Cost from Chengdu to Seattle, Washington

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 typically range from $200-$400 for a simple local upright move to $1,000-$2,000 for long-distance or grand pianos, with potential extra fees for stairs, elevators, or disassembly adding $5-$10 per step or $100-$200 for complex jobs, depending on the piano's size, distance, and logistical challenges like stairs or narrow hallways.

A piano dolly helps with short, flat moves but hiring professional piano movers is almost always better for safety, preventing costly damage (like a cracked soundboard or ruined floors), and handling stairs/tight spots, as they have specialized equipment, experience, and insurance for these heavy, delicate instruments. While a dolly saves money upfront, the risk of injury or significant repair costs usually outweighs the cost of professionals, especially for valuable or grand pianos.