Full Service Moving Cost: What’s Included and Pricing

Planning a move often brings a mix of excitement and anxiety, especially when you start thinking about the logistics and the price tag. You might be wondering whether hiring a company to handle everything is worth the investment or if you should save money by doing it yourself. Understanding the cost for full service movers and what is included is the first step toward making a confident decision. When you know exactly what you are paying for, you can budget accurately and avoid unexpected fees on moving day.

Full service moving companies do much more than just load a truck. They pack your belongings, protect your furniture, transport everything safely, and unpack at your new home. This level of service can transform a stressful experience into a smooth transition. However, the full service moving cost varies widely based on distance, volume, and additional services. This guide breaks down every component so you can compare quotes and choose the right provider for your needs.

What Does Full Service Moving Include?

A full service move typically covers the entire relocation process from start to finish. The moving company sends a team of professionals who handle packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking. They also provide all necessary packing materials such as boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and furniture pads. This comprehensive approach eliminates the need for you to source supplies or spend weeks boxing up your home.

Most full service movers also offer inventory management. They create a detailed list of every item being moved and label each box with a unique number. This system helps ensure that nothing gets lost and that fragile items receive proper handling. Additionally, the crew will disassemble and reassemble furniture like bed frames, desks, and dining tables. They also wrap mattresses, sofas, and electronics in protective covers to prevent scratches and dust.

Another key inclusion is liability coverage. Reputable moving companies provide basic valuation coverage at no extra cost, which protects your belongings against damage. For high-value items, you can purchase additional full value protection. This peace of mind is one of the main reasons people choose complete relocation pricing over a DIY move.

Packing and Unpacking Services

The packing phase is where full service movers really shine. Professional packers are trained to wrap fragile items securely and use the right box size for each category of goods. They pack kitchen items, bedroom linens, bathroom essentials, and even specialty items like artwork and antiques. The goal is to reduce the risk of breakage and save you hours of tedious work.

Upon arrival at your new home, the crew unpacks each room according to your preferences. They place boxes in the correct rooms, remove packing materials, and set up furniture in the layout you choose. Some companies even offer to make your bed and arrange basic essentials so you can sleep comfortably on the first night. This level of service is especially valuable for families with young children or professionals with tight schedules.

How Full Service Moving Cost Is Calculated

The cost for full service movers depends on several factors that movers use to generate a binding estimate. Understanding these variables helps you interpret quotes and avoid surprises. The primary cost drivers include distance, weight or volume of goods, labor time, and additional services like storage or specialty item handling.

For local moves (typically under 100 miles), movers charge an hourly rate per mover plus a truck fee. Most companies require a minimum number of hours, often two to three. For long distance moves, the price is based on the weight of your shipment and the distance traveled. The mover weighs the truck before and after loading to determine the exact weight. Interstate moves are regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, which requires movers to provide a written estimate and a bill of lading.

In our guide on full service long distance movers costs and what to expect, we explain how binding estimates protect you from price hikes. A binding estimate guarantees the total cost based on the items you list. If you add more items later, the price may increase, so it is important to be thorough when inventorying your belongings.

Additional Factors That Affect Pricing

Several secondary factors can influence the final full service moving cost. These include the time of year (peak season is May through September), the day of the week (weekends cost more), and the complexity of the move (stairs, elevators, long carry distances). If you live in a walk-up apartment on the fourth floor, expect a higher hourly rate because the movers have to carry items up multiple flights.

Specialty items also add to the total. If you own a grand piano, a pool table, a large safe, or fragile artwork, the mover will charge extra for custom crating and additional labor. Some items require climate-controlled transport or special handling equipment. Always disclose these items during the quoting process so the mover can prepare the right materials and provide an accurate estimate.

Average Cost Ranges for Full Service Moves

While every move is unique, industry data provides helpful benchmarks. For a local move of a two-bedroom apartment (about 1,000 square feet), the cost typically ranges from $800 to $2,500. This includes a crew of three movers working for four to eight hours plus the truck fee. For a three-bedroom house (about 2,000 square feet), local moves often cost between $1,500 and $4,000.

Long distance moves are priced differently. Moving a two-bedroom home across the country (2,500 miles) can cost between $3,000 and $7,000. A larger home with more furniture may run $6,000 to $12,000 or more. These estimates include packing materials, labor, transportation, and basic liability coverage. If you choose full packing and unpacking, add 20 to 30 percent to the base price.

Complete relocation pricing also varies by region. Moves in major metropolitan areas like New York, Los Angeles, or Chicago tend to cost more due to higher labor rates and traffic congestion. Rural moves may have lower hourly rates but higher travel fees if the mover must drive a long distance to reach your home.

What Is Not Included in Full Service Moving

Knowing what is excluded is just as important as knowing what is included. Full service movers do not typically handle hazardous materials such as paint, propane tanks, cleaning chemicals, or batteries. You must dispose of or transport these items yourself. Plants and perishable food are also usually excluded due to health regulations and the risk of damage.

Movers will not disconnect or reconnect gas appliances, water lines, or electrical fixtures. You need to hire a licensed plumber or electrician for tasks like disconnecting a washing machine or installing a stove. Similarly, movers cannot disassemble built-in shelving or wall-mounted units. They also will not move items that are not properly packed unless you have paid for packing services.

Finally, most moving companies do not provide cleaning services. You are responsible for cleaning your old home after the movers leave and for tidying up the new home before they arrive. Some movers offer add-on cleaning services for an additional fee, so ask about this if you need it.

How to Get Accurate Moving Quotes

To get a reliable estimate, request in-home surveys from at least three moving companies. During the survey, the estimator walks through your home and lists every item to be moved. Do not skip the garage, attic, or basement, as these areas often contain heavy or bulky items that affect the weight. After the survey, you will receive a written binding estimate that includes the full service moving cost and a detailed breakdown of services.

Compare the estimates side by side. Look at the hourly rate, travel fees, packing charges, and valuation coverage. The cheapest quote is not always the best, as low prices may indicate inadequate insurance or inexperienced crews. Read online reviews and check the company’s license and insurance status with the USDOT number. Reputable movers will have positive feedback and a history of satisfied customers.

For those seeking additional financial flexibility, some families explore options like a personal loan or credit card to cover moving expenses. If you are considering financing, you might also look into resources like car loan refinancing to free up monthly cash flow for your relocation budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much should I tip full service movers?

Tipping is not required but is appreciated for good service. A common guideline is $20 to $40 per mover per day for a standard move. For exceptional service or difficult conditions, you can tip more. Cash tips are preferred because they go directly to the crew.

Is full service moving worth the cost?

For most people, yes, because it saves time, reduces physical strain, and minimizes the risk of damage. If you have a tight schedule, limited mobility, or valuable belongings, the investment is worthwhile. For a small studio apartment with few items, a DIY move may be more cost-effective.

Can I pack some items myself to lower the cost?

Yes, many movers allow partial packing. You can pack non-fragile items like clothing and books while letting the professionals handle dishes, electronics, and artwork. This reduces the packing fee but still gives you the benefit of experienced handlers for delicate items.

Do full service movers provide storage?

Many moving companies offer short-term and long-term storage options. This is useful if your new home is not ready on moving day or if you need to downsize temporarily. Storage costs are typically calculated per month based on the volume of items stored.

How far in advance should I book full service movers?

Book at least four to six weeks ahead for local moves and eight to twelve weeks for long distance moves. During peak season, popular movers fill up quickly. Booking early also gives you time to compare quotes and arrange financing if needed.

Understanding the cost for full service movers and what is included empowers you to plan a stress-free relocation. By knowing the pricing structure, what services to expect, and how to compare quotes, you can choose a mover that fits your budget and needs. A full service move is an investment in your time, safety, and peace of mind, allowing you to focus on settling into your new home rather than worrying about logistics.