How Much Does Furniture Moving Cost

Relocating furniture from one destination to another may be arduous, mainly when undertaken alone. The prospect of engaging professional movers presents itself as a viable alternative. However, the cost of the service remains a key consideration. The costs associated with furniture relocation are subject to frequent fluctuations, contingent upon several factors. A comprehensive evaluation of various factors is essential to accurately determine the costs associated with furniture relocation and ensure optimal efficiency and cost-effectiveness for each client’s unique requirements. These factors encompass but are not restricted to the distance of the move, the quantity and dimensions of the furniture being relocated, the level of service demanded, and the prevailing season.

Factors that Affect Furniture Moving Costs

  • Distance: The distance between the origin and destination of the move is a significant factor in determining the cost. Longer distances will generally result in higher costs due to fuel and transportation expenses.
  • Amount and Size of Furniture: Moving more furniture or oversized items will require a giant truck or manpower, resulting in higher costs.
  • Level of Service: The level of service required will also affect the cost. These will come at an additional cost if you need packing, unpacking, or assembly services.
  • Time of Year: The time of year can also impact the cost of furniture moving. The summer months are typically busier and more expensive than the off-peak seasons.
  • Accessibility: The accessibility of the origin and destination can also impact the cost. If stairs, narrow hallways, or other obstacles make moving furniture more complex, the cost can increase.
  • Insurance and Liability: Movers may offer different insurance and liability coverage levels, which can also impact the cost. Additional insurance or coverage will generally increase the cost.
  • Additional Services: If you require additional services such as storage, special handling of fragile or valuable items, or other custom services, this will also affect the cost.

Local Furniture Moving Costs

The pricing of local furniture transportation is contingent upon various variables, including but not limited to the scope of the move, the geographical distance between the point of origin and destination, the quantity and dimensions of furniture items being relocated, and the degree of service demanded.

Studio or one-bedroom apartment: For a local move of a studio or one-bedroom apartment, the cost can range from $200 to $500 if you do it yourself. Hiring professional movers may cost between $300 to $1,500 depending on the furniture, distance, and level of service required.

To execute a local move about a two to three-bedroom apartment or house, the estimated expenses could vary between $500 to $1,500 if one executes the move independently. However, engaging the services of professional movers may cost approximately $1,500 to $3,000, contingent upon the quantum of furniture, the distance involved, and the level of service sought.

In the event of a local move involving a four-bedroom house or more prominent, the expenses incurred can vary significantly based on the approach taken. Undertaking the move independently could cost anywhere between $1,000 to $3,000, whereas engaging the services of seasoned professionals may cost between $3,000 to $6,000, contingent on factors such as the furniture volume, the move’s distance, and the scope of service sought.

Long-Distance Furniture Moving Costs

The pricing for long-distance furniture transportation is contingent upon various elements, including but not limited to the geographic span between the point of departure and arrival, the quantity and dimensions of furniture items in transit, the level of service expected, and any additional expenses incurred for provisions such as insurance, packing materials, and storage facilities. Here are some estimates for the cost of long-distance furniture moving:

Small move: The transportation of even a modest amount of furniture and personal effects over distances of up to 1,000 miles may incur expenses ranging from $1,000 to $2,000. For distances surpassing 1,000 miles, the associated costs may substantially increase, ranging from $4,000 to $5,000. These costs reflect the intricate logistics and specialized handling required to safely and efficiently transport possessions over extended distances.

Average move: The customary monetary investment for transferring a domicile that comprises a single or double bedroom is usually estimated within the range of $2,500 to $4,000 for journeys spanning 1,000 miles or less. However, for journeys exceeding 1,000 miles, said investment may escalate significantly to anywhere from $5,000 to $8,000.

Significant move: A large movement of a three to five-bedroom house or larger can cost around $6,000 to $10,000 for distances up to 1,000 miles. The monetary compensation for distances exceeding 1,000 miles may experience a notable rise, advancing from $12,000 to $15,000.

DIY Furniture Moving Costs

The cost of DIY furniture moving can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the move. 

  • Rental truck: The rental expense of a moving truck may fluctuate between $20 to $40 per diem, augmented by mileage charges that could vary from $0.59 to $0.99 per mile. The cost can be higher during peak moving season or on weekends.
  • Fuel: The fuel cost will depend on the move’s distance and the moving truck’s fuel efficiency.
  • Equipment and supplies: Moving equipment such as dollies, furniture pads, and straps can be rented for an additional cost or purchased for long-term use. Moving supplies such as boxes, packing tape, and bubble wrap can also add to the cost.
  • Labor: It may be prudent to contemplate remunerating acquaintances or relatives enlisted to assist with the relocation for their valuable time and exertion.

How to Save Money on Furniture Moving Costs

Furniture moving costs can quickly add up, but you can save money on your move in several ways. Here are some tips to help you reduce your furniture moving costs:

  • Plan: Planning and booking your move in advance can often result in lower costs. This is especially true during peak moving seasons when prices are typically higher.
  • Declutter: It will be a less expensive move when you have less stuff. 
  • Pack yourself: Packing your belongings can save you money on packing services offered by moving companies. Consider purchasing packing supplies in bulk or sourcing them for free from local stores.
  • Shop around: Obtain quotes from several moving companies to compare prices and services. Be sure to ask about any potential discounts or promotions.
  • Be flexible: Moving during off-peak times or days of the week can often result in lower costs. Additionally, being flexible with your moving date allows you to take advantage of last-minute discounts or promotions.
  • Insure your belongings: While it may seem counterintuitive, it can save you money in the long run by protecting you from potential damages and the associated repair costs.

Local furniture moves generally cost less than long-distance moves, and DIY moves can be less expensive than hiring professional movers but may come with added stress and physical strain. By planning, decluttering, shopping around, and being flexible with your moving date, you can reduce your furniture moving costs and make your move more affordable.