How Much Should You Expect to Pay for Full-Service Moving?

It is difficult to know how much full-service moving companies will cost for your shifting as you plan your move. Your fee will differ depending on the services you require, the distance traveled, and the type of move. 

Price Variables

All of these factors can have an effect on the cost of hiring full-service moving companies.

The size of your home and the weight of the objects to be relocated

Specialty objects, such as a hot tub, piano, and antiques, incur additional charges.

Packing, storage, disassembly, and bespoke crating are all optional services.

Moving distance

Additional services include extra charge. These involve managing large or bulky items, long carry charges if there is a long distance to have the objects you are moving, cancellation fees, storage fees, extra stop charges, disposal fees, and express delivery charges.

How Much Cost of moving?

What you are moving and how far you are traveling are essential considerations in determining the cost of hiring full-service moving companies. Local movers, for example, typically charge $50.00 per hour. Moving a two-bedroom house in 5-6 hours might cost between $750 and $900. Moving these products cross-country would cost between $3,400 and $4,100.

Budgeting and Saving

If you want to save money, consider the following suggestions for a full-service move:

Negotiate a reduced price with professional Packers and Movers.

Pack your belongings

Remove of or donate any items you don't need to bring with you. While this may appear to be a lot of information, you will better understand how full-service moving companies calculate their fees. Schedule a moving and storage estimate with your movers to go over these costs and see how they break down their charges for your specific needs.

When planning a move, one of the important decisions to make is whether to hire a full-service moving company. While these companies offer unparalleled convenience, their services come at a cost. Understanding the pricing structure and the factors influencing these costs can help you make an informed decision. This article delves into the costs associated with hiring full-service moving companies, examining various factors that impact pricing, and providing practical tips to manage your moving budget effectively.

What Is a Full-Service Moving Company?

Full-service moving companies handle every aspect of your move. Their services typically include packing, loading, transporting, unloading, and unpacking your belongings. Many also offer additional services such as providing packing supplies, disassembling and reassembling furniture, and temporary storage solutions. This all-inclusive approach makes moving less stressful and time-consuming, particularly for long-distance or complex relocations.

Average Costs of Hiring Full-Service Movers

The cost of hiring a full-service moving company varies widely based on several factors, including the distance of the move, the size of your home, and any additional services you may require. Here’s a general breakdown:

Local Moves

For local moves, typically defined as moves within 50-100 kilometers, full-service moving costs are calculated on an hourly basis. Rates usually range from $100 to $200 per hour for a team of two to four movers, depending on your location and the company’s pricing policies.

Studio or One-Bedroom Apartment: $300 to $700 (3-5 hours)

Two-Bedroom Apartment or Small Home: $500 to $1,200 (5-8 hours)

Three-Bedroom Home or Larger: $1,000 to $2,500+ (8+ hours)

Long-Distance Moves

Long-distance moves are typically priced based on the weight of your belongings and the distance between your current and new homes. Costs can range from $2,000 to $8,000 or more depending on these factors:

One-Bedroom Apartment (3,000 lbs): $1,500 to $3,500 for 500 miles; $2,500 to $5,000 for 1,000 miles

Two-Bedroom Home (5,000 lbs): $3,500 to $5,500 for 500 miles; $4,500 to $7,500 for 1,000 miles

Three-Bedroom Home or Larger (10,000+ lbs): $6,000 to $8,500 for 500 miles; $8,000 to $12,000+ for 1,000 miles

Additional Services

Full-service movers offer optional services that can add to your overall costs. These include:

Packing Services: $300 to $1,200+ depending on the size of your home and the number of items

Packing Supplies: $50 to $300, depending on the materials needed

Furniture Assembly/Disassembly: $50 to $200 per hour

Storage Solutions: $50 to $500+ per month, depending on the size of the storage unit

Specialty Item Handling: $100 to $1,000+ for items such as pianos, artwork, or antiques

Factors Influencing Moving Costs

Several factors can significantly impact the cost of hiring full-service movers. Understanding these factors can help you better estimate your moving expenses:

Distance: Long-distance moves generally cost more due to higher fuel expenses, tolls, and time spent on the road.

Volume and Weight: The more items you have, the higher the cost, especially for long-distance moves where pricing is weight-based.

Home Size: Larger homes require more movers, time, and packing materials, increasing costs.

Season and Timing: Moving during peak seasons (summer) or weekends can cost more due to high demand.

Complexity of the Move: Difficult access points (e.g., stairs, narrow hallways), multiple stops, or moving specialty items can increase labor costs.

Insurance Coverage: Basic valuation protection is often included, but full-value protection insurance can add $100 to $600+ depending on the coverage amount.

Tips to Save on Full-Service Moving Costs

While full-service moving companies offer convenience, there are ways to manage your expenses without sacrificing quality:

Get Multiple Quotes: Request estimates from at least three reputable moving companies to compare prices and services.

De-clutter Before Moving: Reduce costs by donating, selling, or discarding items you no longer need. Fewer belongings mean lower packing, transportation, and labor costs.

Be Flexible with Moving Dates: Schedule your move during off-peak times (weekdays, mid-month, or winter) to take advantage of lower rates.

Pack Some Items Yourself: Handle small or non-fragile items to save on packing service costs. However, leave fragile or high-value items to professionals.

Ask About Discounts: Some companies offer discounts for military personnel, students, or seniors. Additionally, inquire about promotions or bundled service deals.

Negotiate: Don’t hesitate to negotiate with movers to get the best possible deal, especially if you’re booking well in advance.

Hidden Costs to Watch Out For

Be aware of potential hidden fees that can inflate your moving costs. These may include:

Stair or Elevator Fees: Additional charges for moving items up or down multiple flights of stairs or using an elevator.

Long-Carry Fees: Applied if movers have to carry items a significant distance from your home to the moving truck.

Expedited Delivery: Extra charges for guaranteed delivery within a specific timeframe.

Additional Stops: Fees for picking up or dropping off items at multiple locations.

Fuel Surcharges: Often included in long-distance moves, these fees vary based on current fuel prices.

How to Choose the Right Full-Service Moving Company

Selecting the right moving company is crucial to ensure a smooth and cost-effective move. Here are some tips:

Research Reviews and Ratings: Check online reviews and ratings on platforms like Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

Verify Licensing and Insurance: Ensure the company is licensed by the Department of Transportation (DOT) and carries adequate insurance coverage.

Request a Written Estimate: Opt for a binding or not-to-exceed estimate to avoid unexpected charges.

Ask Questions: Clarify what services are included in the quote and inquire about any additional fees.

Check Experience with Specialty Items: If you have fragile or valuable items, ensure the company has expertise in handling them.

Conclusion

Hiring a full-service moving company can significantly ease the burden of relocating, but it’s essential to understand the associated costs and factors influencing pricing. By planning ahead, comparing quotes, and taking proactive steps to manage your expenses, you can enjoy a stress-free moving experience without breaking the bank. Whether you’re moving locally or across the country, a well-chosen full-service mover can provide the expertise and efficiency needed for a successful transition to your new home.