Piano Shipping Cost from San Jose, California to East Providence, Rhode Island

Piano mover costs typically range from $200–$400 for local uprights and $1,000–$2,000 for long-distance, but prices vary significantly by distance, piano type (grands cost more), stairs/obstacles (add $5-$10 per step), special equipment, and insurance, with some basic moves starting at $150 and complex moves exceeding $5,000, notes. Expect additional fees for difficult terrain, narrow spaces, or rush jobs, and factor in post-move tuning ($125-$225).

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.

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. For instance, if you live in a hot climate, you may want to consider moving your piano in the cooler months.