Piano Shipping Cost from Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri

Moving a piano costs roughly $200 to $400 for local moves and $1,000 to $2,000 for long-distance moves, with national averages around $400, but prices vary significantly based on the piano's size (upright vs. grand), distance, stairs/obstacles, and mover expertise, potentially ranging from $150 to over $3,000 for complex relocations. Expect extra fees for stairs (around $5-$10 per step) or specialized equipment.

A piano dolly is essential for moving an upright piano short distances yourself, but hiring professional piano movers is almost always better for safety (yours and the piano's), preventing costly damage, and handling complex moves (like grands or stairs), as they have specialized equipment (skid boards, straps, trucks) and expertise that a standard dolly can't replace for valuable instruments. While a dolly saves money upfront, the potential costs of injury or a ruined piano far outweigh the expense of professionals.

The right time of year to move your piano depends on where you live. In general, cooler temperatures are best for moving a piano since extreme heat or cold can cause damage to the instrument.