Shipping Cost from Long Beach, California to Tokyo

On average, you'll pay between $2,000 to $5,000 for overseas shipping of an upright piano. This price typically includes basic packing, transportation, and standard insurance. However, costs fluctuate significantly based on the specific destination and chosen shipping method.

A piano dolly is essential for moving an upright piano yourself, but hiring professional piano movers is almost always better and safer, especially for valuable instruments, because pros use specialized equipment (dollies, ramps, straps, blankets) and have the training to handle the extreme weight (hundreds to over a thousand pounds) and awkward shape, preventing costly damage and serious injury, which can outweigh the cost of movers. A dolly alone isn't enough; you need strong people, a truck with a ramp, padding, and expertise to avoid accidents.

Long-distance moves: Expect to pay $500–$800 for uprights and $1,000–$2,000+ for grand pianos. Mileage rates: Local moves cost $1.50–$2.50 per mile, while long-distance rates range from $2.50–$10 per mile.