Full service moving costs services and extra fees


Full‑Service Movers: Costs, Services, and Smart Tips

Planning a move and feeling overwhelmed? A full‑service moving company can take on the heavy lifting—from packing to unloading—so you can focus on everything else. Here’s what they actually do, what it costs, when fees pop up, and how to decide if it’s right for you.

Use this guide to compare options, avoid common add‑ons, and book a mover with confidence.

What a full‑service moving company does

End‑to‑end help, start to finish

Full‑service movers handle more than transport. They can pack your entire home, provide materials, label boxes, and protect furniture. Crews load, drive, unload, and reassemble large items. Many also offer unpacking and haul away or recycle the used boxes and packing materials. Some can schedule extras—like cleaning or debris removal—around your move timeline, so you deal with fewer vendors.

If you prefer control over certain items (family heirlooms, sensitive documents), you can opt for partial packing. Movers supply the boxes and cushioning while you decide what to pack yourself.

How much a full‑service move costs

Pricing varies by inventory size, distance, crew size, access (stairs, elevators, long carries), and time of year. Expect the highest pricing in summer when demand peaks. For a ballpark: moving a two‑bedroom home about 100 miles typically runs around $1,200–$3,100 in summer and about $1,000–$2,800 in cooler months. A reputable mover will survey your items (virtual or in‑person) before quoting, which leads to a more accurate estimate.

Ways to lower your price

- Move off‑peak: Book during cooler months or mid‑week to avoid demand surcharges.

- Downsize first: Donate or sell bulky items you don’t need; fewer cubic feet means fewer labor hours.

- Choose partial packing: Have pros pack fragile rooms (kitchen, dining) and DIY the rest.

- Be flexible on dates: A wider delivery window can reduce or eliminate priority fees.

- Prep access: Reserve elevator time, clear pathways, and secure parking to avoid time‑based add‑ons.

Add‑on fees to watch for

Even with full‑service, some situations trigger extra charges. Ask your mover to note these on your quote before moving day.

Long carries or distant parking

If the truck can’t park near your door and crews must walk farther than the company’s standard distance, you may see a “long carry” fee. Clarify parking rules and request the mover assess the distance in advance.

Many appliances or bulky items

Most movers include standard appliances (washer, dryer, fridge, range). If you have more—dishwashers, wine coolers, extra freezers—expect itemized charges. Confirm whether they handle disconnect/reconnect or if you’ll need a specialist.

Stairs and elevators

Multiple flights or slow, busy elevators increase time and labor. Movers often charge per flight of stairs or apply an elevator fee. Reserve elevator time if your building allows it.

Parking permits and right‑of‑way

Some cities require a permit to reserve curb space for a moving truck. Fees and timing vary by location, season, and traffic volume, and approvals may involve a city engineer. Confirm whether the mover obtains permits or if you must handle them—and start early.

Priority delivery or exclusive truck use

To guarantee specific delivery dates or exclusive use of a truck (no shared loads), movers may add a premium. Exclusive use reduces handling and the risk of mix‑ups—often worth the cost for high‑value shipments or tight timelines.

Full‑service vs. standard movers

Feature Full‑Service Movers Standard Movers
Packing Complete or partial; supplies included Usually DIY; limited packing on request
Furniture care Disassembly, padding, reassembly Basic padding; limited disassembly
Unpacking Available; debris removal offered Rare; debris removal uncommon
Scheduling extras Can arrange cleaning/waste services Typically not included
Price Higher, more inclusive Lower, more DIY

Should you hire a full‑service mover?

Great fit if you value speed and less stress

Hire full‑service if you’re short on time, have lots of large furniture, need help with packing, or want a single team to manage the entire process. It’s also ideal if you’re coordinating permits, cleaning, or a tight move‑out/move‑in schedule.

Consider partial‑service if you’re cost‑sensitive

If budget is tight, mix and match: ask the mover to pack fragile rooms and disassemble big items while you pack clothes and books. You’ll save money while still avoiding the most time‑consuming tasks.

How to choose and book with confidence

- Get multiple in‑home or virtual surveys so quotes reflect real volume and access conditions.

- Request an itemized, written estimate. Ask about binding or not‑to‑exceed options to avoid surprises.

- Clarify truck use: shared vs. exclusive, potential transfers, and how they prevent mix‑ups.

- Verify coverage: valuation, liability limits, and how to file a claim for damage.

- Confirm add‑ons: long carries, stairs/elevators, appliance handling, and packing material disposal.

- Ask about parking permits—who secures them and by when.

- Review timeline: pickup and delivery windows, priority date fees, and rescheduling policies.

- Plan tipping and payment: accepted methods, when payment is due, and recommended tip ranges.

FAQs

  • Is professional packing worth it?
    Yes if you have fragile items, limited time, or a large home. Crews pack faster and reduce breakage, and you can choose partial packing to control costs.
  • Will movers disconnect and reconnect appliances?
    Some do, some don’t. Many require a licensed pro for gas or water lines. Ask your mover what’s included and plan a technician if needed.
  • Do I need a parking permit for the truck?
    Often in busy cities. Fees and lead times vary, and approvals can depend on location and season. Confirm whether the mover handles permits or if it’s on you.
  • How far in advance should I book?
    Peak season: 4–8 weeks ahead. Off‑peak: 2–4 weeks. Book earlier if you need specific dates or exclusive truck use.
  • How much should I tip movers?
    Commonly 15–20% of the move cost, split among the crew, or a per‑mover amount for full‑day work. Tip based on service quality and complexity.

A full‑service moving company can simplify your move by handling packing, heavy lifting, and logistics—at a higher but predictable cost. Get multiple itemized quotes, verify add‑ons and delivery terms, and secure parking and elevator access early. With the right plan, you’ll reduce stress, protect your belongings, and land in your new home on time and on budget.

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