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Hiring full-service movers is one of the most convenient options when planning a move. Instead of managing packing, heavy lifting, transportation, and setup on your own, a professional moving company handles the entire process. While this saves time and reduces stress, it also comes with higher costs compared to DIY or labor-only options.
This 2026 price guide for full-service movers explains average costs, pricing by home size, what services are included, and the main factors that influence final moving expenses. Whether you are moving locally or across state lines, this guide will help you plan a realistic moving budget.
What Are Full-Service Movers?
Full-service movers manage your move from start to finish. Services typically include packing, loading, transportation, unloading, unpacking, and furniture setup. Most companies also provide packing supplies, moving equipment, and basic valuation coverage, with optional upgrades available for specialty items or storage needs.
Average Cost of Full-Service Movers in 2026
In 2026, the average cost of hiring full-service movers varies based on distance, home size, and service level.
Average Price Ranges
| Move Type | Average Cost Range (2026) |
|---|---|
| Local move | $1,200 – $4,500 |
| Long-distance move | $3,500 – $12,000+ |
| Hourly rate (local moves) | $120 – $200 per hour |
Local moves are usually charged hourly, while long-distance moves are priced based on distance, shipment weight, and services selected.
Full-Service Moving Costs by Home Size (2026)
| Home Size | Local Move Cost | Long-Distance Move Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1-bedroom | $1,200 – $2,500 | $2,500 – $5,000 |
| 2-bedroom | $2,000 – $3,800 | $4,000 – $7,500 |
| 3-bedroom | $3,000 – $5,500 | $6,500 – $10,000 |
| 4-bedroom or larger | $4,500 – $8,000+ | $9,000 – $15,000+ |
These estimates assume normal access conditions and an average household volume.
Cost Breakdown: What You’re Paying For
Labor Costs
Labor is one of the largest components of full-service moving costs. For local moves, movers typically charge an hourly rate that covers trained professionals, standard equipment, and on-site handling. In 2026, hourly labor rates generally range from $120 to $200 per hour for a crew of two to three movers. The total labor cost depends on how long the move takes, which is influenced by home size, stairs, elevators, and how prepared your items are. If you’re comparing full-service moving costs with labor-only options, you may also want to review our detailed guide on Price Guide for Loading Trucks and Storage Containers: Average Costs in 2026, which breaks down what you can expect to pay when hiring professionals just for loading.
For long-distance moves, labor costs are usually bundled into a flat-rate quote. This includes loading, unloading, and handling throughout transit, rather than being billed separately by the hour.
Packing Services & Materials
| Service | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Partial packing | $300 – $800 |
| Full packing | $800 – $2,500+ |
| Standard packing materials | $150 – $500 |
| Specialty crates | $150 – $400 per item |
Packing services increase overall costs but significantly reduce damage risk and save time.
Transportation & Insurance
Transportation costs cover the moving truck, fuel, tolls, mileage, and logistics required to move your belongings from origin to destination. For local moves, transportation is usually included in the hourly rate. For long-distance relocations, transportation costs are calculated based on shipment weight, distance traveled, and route complexity, and are built into the total quoted price.
Insurance, also known as valuation coverage, protects your belongings during the move. Most movers include basic coverage at no extra cost, which offers minimal reimbursement. Many homeowners choose full-value protection, which increases the total price by approximately 1% to 2% of the declared value of the shipment but provides stronger financial protection in case of loss or damage.
Factors That Affect Full-Service Moving Costs
Several factors influence how much you will pay for full-service movers in 2026. These include the distance of the move, the total weight or volume of your belongings, access conditions such as stairs or elevators, and the time of year you move. Peak moving season, weekends, and end-of-month dates typically result in higher rates.
Is Hiring Full-Service Movers Worth the Cost?
Full-service movers are the most expensive moving option, but they offer significant advantages. Professional packing reduces damage risk, experienced movers improve efficiency, and homeowners avoid physical strain and time-consuming logistics. For long-distance moves, large households, or busy families, full-service moving is often worth the added expense. Many homeowners decide to hire full-service movers because certain items are difficult or risky to handle alone. Our article 11 Household Items that are Hard to Move without Professionals highlights common household belongings that often require trained movers and specialized equipment.
How to Save Money on Full-Service Moving in 2026
You can reduce moving costs by decluttering before packing, choosing off-peak dates, comparing multiple quotes, and packing non-fragile items yourself. Many moving companies also offer discounts for flexible scheduling or bundled services. One of the most effective ways to manage moving expenses is by reviewing multiple estimates. Our guide How to Compare Moving Company Quotes explains what to look for in a quote, how to spot hidden fees, and how to accurately compare pricing between moving companies.
Conclusion
The average cost of full-service movers in 2026 typically ranges from $1,200 to over $12,000, depending on home size, distance, and services selected. While full-service moving is more expensive than other options, it delivers unmatched convenience, safety, and peace of mind.
By understanding labor, transportation, and insurance costs ahead of time, homeowners can budget accurately and choose a professional moving service that fits their needs. With proper planning, full-service movers can turn a complex move into a smooth, stress-free experience. For more detailed information and tailored advice, visit our page on moving services. For support on your next moving project, please feel free to reach out through our contact form, and our team will be happy to help.