Shipping Cost from Portland, Maine to Los Angeles, California

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 is cheaper for very simple, short moves on flat ground with helpers, but hiring professional piano movers is vastly better and safer for valuable, delicate pianos, especially if stairs, tight corners, or long distances are involved, because professionals have the specialized equipment (like skid boards, straps, dollies) and expertise to prevent costly damage and injury, making them worth the investment for peace of mind. DIY with a dolly risks significant structural damage, rendering the piano untunable.

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.