Shipping Cost from Los Angeles, California to Port Moresby

Piano mover costs typically range from $200 to $600 for local moves, averaging around $424, but can jump to $1,000-$2,000+ for long distances or complex jobs involving stairs, narrow hallways, or large grand pianos, with stairs alone adding $5-$10+ per step. Factors like piano size, distance, accessibility (stairs, tight turns, elevators), and the need for special equipment (like cranes) greatly influence the final price, with smaller uprights being cheaper than large grands.

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.