Moving is often considered one of life’s most stressful events, and while the excitement of a new home is palpable, the logistics can be overwhelming. To alleviate some of this burden, many individuals turn to moving labor-only services. These companies specialize in providing the manpower necessary to assist with packing, lifting, and transporting items, without the added costs of a full-service moving company. In this article, we’ll explore the associated costs of moving labor-only services, estimate the hours needed for your move, and highlight the essential factors to consider when selecting a moving labor service.

How Much do Moving Labor Only Movers Cost?

Understanding the pricing structure of moving labor-only movers is crucial for effectively budgeting your move. The cost of hiring labor-only movers can typically range from $50 to $150 per hour, depending on several factors, including the geographical location, the number of movers hired, and the complexity of the move. 

Most moving labor services operate on an hourly basis, and fees can vary widely from one company to another. When you request a quote, it’s essential to clarify what is included in that price. Here are several key components that may affect the overall cost:

  1. Hourly Rate: Base costs are generally quoted per mover, per hour. Most moves will require at least two movers, but more complex circumstances may require additional help.
  2. Additional Fees: Many moving labor companies have specific fees that can increase the total cost of the service:
    • Travel Fees: Charges for the time it takes for the movers to reach you, or trip fees if they have to travel between locations.
    • Stair or Narrow Access Fees: If your home is challenging to access, such as requiring the movers to navigate stairs or narrow hallways.
    • Long Carry Fees: This might apply if movers have to carry items a certain distance to the truck.
    • Fuel Charges: This fee covers the gas required to transport the team to and from your location.
    • Disassembly Fees: Additional charges may apply for items that need to be disassembled prior to the move.
    • Equipment Fees: Including costs for tools that the movers may need to provide for safe handling and transportation of your belongings.
    • Miscellaneous Equipment Costs: Ask what equipment, like hand trucks, moving pads, or furniture moving dollies, are available for use. Some companies may include these at no extra cost, while others may charge a fee.


How Many Hours Do I Need?

Estimating the time required for a move can be tricky, as it varies significantly based on the size of your home, the volume of belongings, and the help you have on hand. On average, moving labor-only services can assist with the following guidelines:

2 Mover Crew3 Mover Crew4 Mover Crew
Studio/1 BR Apt2 Hours2 Hours
2 BR Apt/1 BR House3 Hours2 Hours2 Hours
3 BR Apt/ 2 BR House4 Hours3 Hours2 Hours
4 BR Apt/ 3 BR House8 Hours6 Hours4 Hours
4-5 BR House12 Hours9 Hours6 Hours
Most moving labor companies will have a two hour minimum. Does not include travel time between move sites.


A critical piece of advice in planning your moving hours is the principle of efficiency: it is often better to hire a greater number of movers for a shorter duration than to rely on fewer movers over a lengthier time. For instance, hiring three movers for two hours is often more effective than hiring two movers for three hours. This model can lead to faster completion of the move with potentially less overall labor costs, as workers can move swiftly and with less strain.


Moving Labor Only Cost Estimator

We generated this moving labor cost calculator so you can get a general idea of what it would cost to hire moving labor only movers. However, keep in mind that this is only an estimate and actual costs will vary.



Benefits of Hiring Moving Labor Only Movers

Affordable– Moving labor is an affordable alternative to full service movers.
Available– Moving labor is often available for short notice and even same day moves.
Flexible– Choose moving labor services as needed and only pay for the time you need.


Disadvantages of Hiring Moving Labor Only Movers

Insurance– Moving labor companies may not carry as much insurance as their full service counterparts and may not have as many additional insurance coverage options.
Equipment– Moving labor companies may have less equipment than full service moving companies such as hand trucks and moving pads.
Long Distance– Since you’ll pay an hourly rate for the trip in between locations, it can get expensive if you’re moving mid to long distances. You may need to hire a different moving labor company at each location to offset the drive cost.


Things to Consider when Hiring a Labor-Only Moving Company

Choosing the right moving labor-only service is essential to ensuring a smooth relocation. Here are several key factors to bear in mind during your selection process:

  1. Reputation and Reviews: Research customer reviews on platforms such as Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau. A company with positive feedback is more likely to offer a satisfactory service experience.
  2. Insurance and Liability: Confirm that the company holds the appropriate insurance and liability coverage. This is crucial in case of any damage to your belongings during the move or any incidents involving the movers.
  3. Experience and Expertise: Ask about the experience of the crew members. Experienced movers may have invaluable knowledge in handling specialty items, such as antiques or heavy furniture.
  4. Availability of Necessary Equipment: Enquire about what equipment they can provide or use during your move. Ensuring movers have hand trucks, moving blankets, and dollies is crucial for the safety and efficiency of your move.
  5. Transparency in Pricing: A reputable moving labor service should be fully upfront about their fees and any potential extra costs. Look for a company that provides a detailed written estimate before work begins.
  6. Flexibility and Customer Service: Communication is key throughout this process, from setting up the initial consultation to addressing any last-minute changes. Look for a mover that offers responsive and clear communication.

Final Thoughts

Utilizing moving labor-only movers can be an excellent way to navigate the physically demanding aspects of relocating your home. By understanding the costs involved, accurately estimating the necessary hours, and considering essential factors when hiring a company, you can make the moving process much smoother and far less stressful. As with any service, taking the time to conduct thorough research and planning will yield the best results, transforming your move into a manageable and organized endeavor.


Popular Moving Labor Companies

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MovingHelp,com is an online marketplace to find local moving labor providers. They have verified reviews and clear up front pricing. You can compare moving labor companies in your area and sort based on best reviews, most affordable, and more!

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