Introduction
Moving is one of those life events that almost everyone dreads, and for good reason. Some surveys consistently rank moving as one of the top five most stressful life experiences. That’s where the idea of hiring professionals comes in, but then the question hits: Is a full-service move really worth the price tag?
The reality is that the full-service moving service cost can range from just over a thousand dollars for small local jobs to well over $10,000 for cross-country moves. Naturally, people compare the benefits of full-service movers and the differences between full-service and DIY moving costs to determine the best option for their budget and lifestyle.
Let’s break down how much full-service movers cost and what’s typically included in their services.
What Is a Full-Service Move?
A full-service move means the moving company provides end-to-end solutions. They don’t just show up with a truck; they bring packing supplies, pack your belongings, load everything safely, transport it, unload it at your new home, and can even unpack boxes if you want them to.
Think of it as a “white-glove” service for moving. You’re essentially outsourcing not just the heavy lifting but also the planning, coordination, and execution.
What’s included
Here’s what’s typically part of the package when you hire full-service movers:
- Packing materials and labor: Boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and professional packing for every room in your home.
- Furniture handling: Disassembly of large furniture, careful wrapping, and reassembly at the new place.
- Loading and unloading: A trained crew that knows how to safely move heavy and fragile items.
- Transportation: The moving truck and driver for local or long-distance moves.
- Unpacking services: If requested, they’ll unpack boxes, arrange furniture, and even haul away packing debris.
So, when someone asks what full-service movers include, the answer is simple: almost everything you’d rather not do yourself.
What’s usually not included
Now, full-service doesn’t mean absolutely everything under the sun. There are still a few things movers typically won’t handle:
- Hazardous materials like paint, propane, and certain cleaning supplies.
- Perishables such as food and plants (especially for long-distance moves).
- Valuables like jewelry, cash, or important documents are usually recommended to travel with you.
- Pets: As much as you’d love to outsource, pets aren’t part of the deal.
Who Should Consider It?
A full-service move isn’t the right fit for everyone. For some people, it’s a lifesaver; for others, it feels like paying for services they don’t really need.
Let’s break it down so you can see where you fall.
Labor-Only Movers
Sometimes all you need is muscle. With labor-only services, you hire movers by the hour to load or unload your rental truck, container, or even just rearrange furniture at home.
- Cost: $25–$60 per mover per hour, often with a 2–3 hour minimum.
- Best for: Local moves, small jobs, or when you just need manpower without a truck.
- Watch out for: These services don’t provide transportation, so you’re responsible for the truck or container.
Quick Comparison Table
| Option | Cost Range (USD) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY (Rental Truck) | $500 – $2,000 | Cheapest option, full control | Heavy labor, driving a large truck, and hidden fees |
| Portable Containers | $1,500 – $4,500 | Flexible timing, no driving | HOA/city restrictions, storage costs timing, no driving |
| Hybrid (You Pack, Pros Load/Unload) | $800 – $2,500 | Saves money on packing, less lifting | Packing risk is still on you |
| Labor-Only Movers | $25-$60 per mover/hr. | Affordable help with heavy lifting | No truck/transport included |
How to Choose a Full-Service Mover
Since the full-service moving service cost is already a big investment, choosing the right company can make or break your entire experience. Here’s how to do it right.
Verify Licensing & Insurance
If you’re moving across state lines, the mover must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Ask for their USDOT number and verify it on the FMCSA website. This indicates that they’re legally permitted to move household goods. For local moves, check your state’s licensing requirements.
Check Reviews and Complaints
Don’t just rely on the company’s website. Look them up on:
- Better Business Bureau (BBB) for complaints and resolutions.
- Google and Yelp for recent customer reviews.
- FMCSA database to see if there are red flags like high complaint numbers.
Get In-Home or Virtual Surveys
Reputable movers won’t give you a final price based on a quick phone call. They’ll schedule either an in-home or video survey to create an accurate inventory.