Piano Shipping Cost from Johnson City, Tennessee to San Diego, California

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.

Top interstate moving companies often cited include United Van Lines, Mayflower Transit, Allied Van Lines, and North American Van Lines, known for comprehensive services, while JK Moving is praised for being a top overall choice with great add-ons, and American Van Lines offers value with flat rates and in-house crews; U-Pack and Bellhop are also strong for self-service or simplified moves, respectively, but always compare quotes and check reviews.