Shipping Cost from Minneapolis, Minnesota to Washington, District of Columbia

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 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.

Yes, professional piano movers are almost always worth the cost, especially for valuable pianos, as they possess the specialized equipment, training, and insurance to safely handle the instrument's immense weight and delicate internal parts, preventing costly damage to the piano, your home, and potential injuries that DIY moves risk. While a general mover might suffice for a short, flat move, experts specializing in pianos are crucial for complex situations like stairs or valuable instruments, making the upfront investment a significant saving on future repairs or replacements.