Piano Shipping Cost from Bakersfield, California to San Francisco, California

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.

Wrap the Piano in Blankets. Make sure that every part of the piano is wrapped and there are no parts that are exposed. Secure the Piano to the Side of the Truck. Don't let the piano slide around the truck. Secure it to the side of the truck using straps or another method that will ensure it doesn't move.

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.