Full Service Moving Companies Guide: Costs, Services Included, and What to Expect on Moving Day

Full service moving companies handle almost every part of your move for you, including packing, loading, transporting, unloading, and often unpacking and debris removal. You can expect to pay more than a basic moving service, with local full service moves often ranging from about $600–$2,500 and long-distance moves from $3,000–$10,000+ depending on home size and distance. In return, you save time, physical effort, and stress, but you give up some control and must plan around the movers’ schedule. For many busy families or long-distance moves, the tradeoff in cost is worth the convenience and reduced risk of damage.

Planning a move is stressful, especially when you are trying to decide how much to do yourself and what to leave to professionals. This guide is for individuals and families considering a full service moving company for a local or long-distance move. You will learn what full service movers actually do, what it really costs, common mistakes to avoid, and how to decide whether to hire movers or handle parts of the move yourself.

Table of Contents

• What Is a Full Service Moving Company?
• Common Challenges and Mistakes When Hiring Full Service Movers
• What to Do First: Step-by-Step Planning
• What to Expect from Full Service Movers on Moving Day
• Full Service Moving Costs, Quotes, and Hidden Fees
• Should You Hire Full Service Movers or Move Yourself?
• How to Compare Full Service Moving Quotes
• Ways to Save Money with Full Service Moving Companies
• What Can Go Wrong and How to Avoid Problems
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Summary and Next Steps

What Is a Full Service Moving Company?

A full service moving company is a professional mover that can handle almost every part of your move from start to finish. Instead of just loading and driving a truck, they can pack your belongings, protect furniture, transport everything, unload, and often unpack and remove packing materials.

Typical Services Included

Most full service moving packages can include:

• Packing all or most of your household items into boxes
• Providing packing materials (boxes, tape, paper, padding)
• Disassembling and reassembling basic furniture (beds, tables)
• Wrapping and protecting furniture and large items
• Loading everything onto the truck
• Transporting your belongings to your new home
• Unloading and placing items in the correct rooms
• Optional unpacking and debris/box removal

Some companies also offer specialty services such as:

• Packing and crating fragile or high-value items (art, antiques)
• Short-term or long-term storage
• Appliance servicing (disconnecting/reconnecting washers, dryers)
• Handling pianos, safes, or gym equipment

What Full Service Moving Does Not Always Include

Not every “full service” package is identical. Some services may cost extra or require a specialist:

• Disconnecting gas lines or hard-wired appliances
• Mounting or unmounting TVs and wall fixtures
• Cleaning your old or new home
• Moving items that are hazardous, flammable, or prohibited

Always ask the mover to list exactly what is and is not included in writing before you sign a contract.

Common Challenges and Mistakes When Hiring Full Service Movers

Even with full service movers, there are common issues that can cause stress, extra costs, or delays. Knowing them ahead of time helps you avoid surprises.

Underestimating How Much You Own

Many people underestimate the size of their move, especially if they have a garage, basement, or storage unit. This can lead to:

• Higher costs than the original estimate
• Not enough truck space or crew members on moving day
• Longer loading and unloading times

Not Asking About Extra Fees

Some fees are not obvious until moving day. Common extra charges include:

• Stairs or long carries from the truck to your door
• Elevator fees in apartment buildings
• Shuttle fees if a large truck cannot access your street
• Last-minute changes or extra stops

Booking Too Late

Waiting too long to book movers can limit your options and increase your costs. This is especially true for:

• Summer moves (May–September)
• End-of-month or weekend moves
• Long-distance or cross-country moves

Not Checking Credentials and Reviews

Choosing a mover based only on price can backfire. Risks include:

• Unreliable arrival times or missed delivery windows
• Poor communication and unclear policies
• Higher risk of damage or lost items

Always check licensing, insurance, and recent customer reviews before committing.

What to Do First: Step-by-Step Planning

Good planning makes full service moving smoother and helps you control costs. Here is a simple order to follow.

1. Define Your Move Details

Before you call movers, write down:

• Current address and new address (or at least city/zip)
• Approximate move date and any flexibility
• Home size (number of bedrooms and floors)
• Special items (piano, safe, large sectional, fragile art)

2. Decide How Much Help You Want

Full service can be customized. Consider:

• Do you want the movers to pack everything, or just fragile items?
• Will you pack some rooms yourself to save money?
• Do you need short-term storage between homes?

Having a clear idea of your needs will help movers give more accurate quotes.

3. Declutter Before You Get Quotes

The less you move, the less you pay. Before getting estimates:

• Donate, sell, or recycle items you no longer need
• Clear out old clothes, toys, and broken furniture
• Empty or reduce storage areas if possible

This can significantly reduce your moving cost, especially for long-distance moves.

4. Create a Simple Inventory

You do not need a perfect list, but a rough inventory helps. Note:

• Number of large furniture pieces per room
• Approximate number of boxes per room (or expected)
• Any items that require special handling

Using a moving app can make this easier; you can explore options in resources like the best moving apps for a smooth and organized move.

5. Request Multiple Full Service Moving Quotes

Once you know what you need, request quotes from at least three reputable movers. Provide the same information to each company so you can compare fairly.

What to Expect from Full Service Movers on Moving Day

Knowing what will happen on moving day reduces stress and helps you prepare your home and family.

Before Moving Day

In the days leading up to your move, you can expect:

• A confirmation call or email with arrival time and crew details
• Instructions about parking, elevators, and building rules
• Reminders about items they cannot move (hazardous materials, open liquids)

If you booked packing services, the crew may arrive one day before the move or earlier, depending on your home size.

On Moving Day: Arrival and Walkthrough

When the crew arrives, they will usually:

• Introduce themselves and review the work order with you
• Do a walkthrough of your home to see what is being moved
• Ask about fragile items, high-value pieces, and special instructions

This is the time to point out anything that needs extra care or is not going on the truck.

Packing and Furniture Preparation

If you chose full or partial packing, movers will:

• Pack items into boxes, labeling by room and sometimes by contents
• Wrap furniture in moving blankets and/or plastic wrap
• Disassemble beds, tables, and other large items as needed

You should keep important documents, medications, valuables, and essentials in a separate box or bag that you move yourself.

Loading the Truck

Professional movers load the truck in a specific order to protect your belongings and balance weight. You can expect:

• Heavier items and furniture loaded first
• Boxes stacked and secured to prevent shifting
• Protective padding between items where needed

For local moves, loading often takes 2–6 hours depending on home size. For long-distance moves, it can take most of the day for larger homes.

Transport and Delivery

For local moves, the same crew usually drives to your new home and unloads the same day. For long-distance moves:

• Delivery may take several days to a couple of weeks depending on distance and route
• You will receive a delivery window rather than an exact time
• Sometimes a different crew unloads at your destination

Unloading, Placement, and Unpacking

At your new home, movers will:

• Unload furniture and boxes into the correct rooms
• Reassemble basic furniture they disassembled
• Place large items where you direct them

If you added unpacking services, they may also:

• Unpack boxes onto flat surfaces
• Remove empty boxes and packing materials

Walk through your home with the crew leader before they leave to confirm everything is in the right place and note any visible damage.

Full Service Moving Costs, Quotes, and Hidden Fees

Full service moving is more expensive than basic “load and go” services, but it can save significant time and effort. Understanding how pricing works helps you budget and avoid surprises.

Typical Cost Ranges

Actual costs vary by location, company, and your specific move, but general ranges are:

• Local moves (within ~50–100 miles): $300–$1,500 for basic moves; full service with packing often ranges from $600–$2,500+ depending on home size and services.
• Long-distance moves: $2,000–$8,000+ for typical household moves; full service with packing and extras can range from $3,000–$10,000+ for larger homes or cross-country moves.
• Hourly rates (local): Often $90–$200+ per hour for a crew and truck, with a minimum number of hours.

For a deeper breakdown of how full service movers structure their pricing, you can review resources like how full service movers work, including costs and services.

What Affects Full Service Moving Costs

Key factors that influence your moving cost include:

• Distance: Longer moves cost more due to fuel, time, and logistics.
• Size and weight: More rooms, furniture, and boxes mean higher costs.
• Services included: Full packing, unpacking, and storage add to the price.
• Access: Stairs, elevators, long walks, and limited parking can increase labor time.
• Timing: Summer, weekends, and end-of-month dates are usually more expensive.
• Special items: Pianos, safes, and fragile or oversized items may require extra fees.

Common Hidden or Extra Fees

Ask movers directly about potential additional charges such as:

• Stair or elevator fees
• Long carry fees (if the truck cannot park close to your door)
• Shuttle fees (if a smaller truck is needed to access your home)
• Fuel surcharges or travel time fees
• Fees for packing materials (boxes, tape, padding)
• Storage fees if your new home is not ready on time
• Rescheduling or last-minute change fees

Why Quotes Vary Between Companies

It is normal for quotes to differ, sometimes by thousands of dollars for long-distance moves. Reasons include:

• Different labor rates and overhead costs
• How they estimate weight or time
• What is included (or excluded) in their “full service” package
• Insurance and valuation options
• Company size and availability on your date

How to Get Accurate Estimates

To get realistic quotes:

• Provide the same detailed information to each mover.
• Request an in-home or virtual survey for larger moves.
• Be honest about stairs, elevators, and access at both locations.
• Mention all large or unusual items.

Ask for a written estimate that clearly lists services, hourly or flat rates, and any potential extra fees.

Should You Hire Full Service Movers or Move Yourself?

Deciding between full service movers and a DIY move depends on your budget, time, physical ability, and the complexity of your move.

When Full Service Movers Make Sense

Full service movers are usually worth considering if:

• You have a 2+ bedroom home or a lot of heavy furniture.
• You are moving long-distance or across the country.
• You have limited time due to work, family, or other commitments.
• You have physical limitations or health concerns.
• You want to reduce the risk of damage by using professionals.

When a DIY or Partial DIY Move May Be Better

A DIY move or a hybrid approach (you pack, movers load/transport) may be better if:

• You are moving a small apartment or studio with minimal furniture.
• Your budget is tight and you are willing to trade time and effort for savings.
• You have friends or family who can safely help with lifting and loading.
• You are moving a short distance and can make multiple trips.

When to Get Quotes and Book Movers

For most moves, it is wise to:

• Start gathering quotes 6–8 weeks before your move date (earlier for summer or long-distance).
• Compare at least three full service moving quotes.
• Book 4–6 weeks in advance for best availability and pricing.

If you are moving during peak season or have a large home, booking even earlier is helpful.

How to Compare Full Service Moving Quotes

Comparing quotes is not just about choosing the lowest price. You want the best overall value and reliability.

What to Look For in Each Quote

Review each estimate carefully and compare:

• Services included: Packing, unpacking, materials, furniture assembly, storage.
• Type of estimate: Binding, non-binding, or “not-to-exceed.”
• Hourly vs. flat rate: Understand how time or weight affects the final cost.
• Insurance/valuation: What happens if something is damaged?
• Fees and surcharges: Fuel, stairs, long carry, weekend rates.

Questions to Ask Each Moving Company

When reviewing quotes, ask:

• Is this estimate binding or can the price increase? Under what conditions?
• What exactly is included in “full service” for this quote?
• Are packing materials included or billed separately?
• How do you handle damage claims?
• Are your movers employees or subcontractors?

Check Reputation and Credentials

Before choosing a mover, verify:

• Licensing and insurance (especially for interstate moves).
• Recent online reviews and ratings.
• How long they have been in business.
• Whether they provide a clear written contract.

Pay attention to how responsive and clear they are during the quote process; this often reflects how they will handle your move.

Ways to Save Money with Full Service Moving Companies

You can still control costs even when hiring full service movers by making smart choices about timing and services.

Reduce What You Move

The simplest way to save is to move less. To cut down on volume:

• Sell or donate furniture that does not fit your new space.
• Clear out closets, the garage, and storage areas.
• Use up pantry items and cleaning supplies before moving.

Pack Some Items Yourself

If you are comfortable packing, you can:

• Pack non-fragile items (clothes, linens, books) yourself.
• Leave only fragile or complex items for the movers to pack.
• Buy moving boxes in bulk to reduce material costs; guides like where to buy moving boxes in bulk and how many you need can help you plan.

Be Flexible with Dates

If possible, avoid peak times:

• Choose a weekday instead of a weekend.
• Move mid-month instead of at the beginning or end.
• Consider off-season months (late fall or winter) for potentially better rates.

Organize to Save Time

Even with full service, you can help the crew work efficiently by:

• Labeling rooms clearly in both homes.
• Keeping hallways and doorways clear.
• Setting aside items that are not going on the truck.

Using simple checklists or moving apps, as described in resources like how to use tech to make moving easier, can keep everything on track.

What Can Go Wrong and How to Avoid Problems

Most moves go smoothly, but it is wise to be aware of potential issues and how to protect yourself.

Delays in Pickup or Delivery

Traffic, weather, and scheduling can cause delays, especially for long-distance moves. To reduce impact:

• Build some flexibility into your move-in date if possible.
• Keep essentials (clothes, toiletries, important documents) with you.
• Confirm pickup and delivery windows in writing.

Damage to Items

Even with professionals, minor damage can happen. Protect yourself by:

• Understanding the mover’s valuation and insurance options.
• Taking photos of valuable items before the move.
• Packing fragile items carefully or having movers professionally pack them.

Unexpected Costs

Surprise charges are frustrating. Avoid them by:

• Discussing all potential fees before signing a contract.
• Being honest about access issues, stairs, and parking.
• Getting all promises and changes in writing.

Miscommunication About Services

Sometimes expectations do not match what is included. Prevent this by:

• Reviewing the written estimate line by line.
• Clarifying whether packing, unpacking, and materials are included.
• Confirming who is responsible for disassembling and reconnecting appliances.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a full service moving company usually cost?

For local moves, full service moving often ranges from about $600–$2,500 depending on home size, time, and services. Long-distance full service moves typically range from $3,000–$10,000+ for larger homes or cross-country relocations. Your exact cost will depend on distance, volume, timing, and how much packing and unpacking you include.

What is included with full service movers?

Most full service movers handle packing, loading, transporting, unloading, and basic furniture disassembly and reassembly. Many also provide packing materials and optional unpacking and debris removal. Always confirm in writing which services are included in your specific quote.

How far in advance should I book a full service moving company?

For most moves, booking 4–6 weeks in advance is a good target. During busy seasons (summer, weekends, end of month) or for long-distance moves, try to book 6–8 weeks or more ahead to secure your preferred date and better pricing. Last-minute bookings are sometimes possible but often cost more and limit your options.

Do full service movers pack everything for me?

They can, but it depends on the package you choose. Some people hire movers to pack everything, while others only use them for fragile or hard-to-pack items and do the rest themselves to save money. Make sure your estimate clearly states whether full or partial packing is included.

Is it cheaper to move myself instead of hiring full service movers?

In most cases, a DIY move with a rental truck is cheaper in terms of direct costs. However, you need to factor in your time, physical effort, potential for injury, and risk of damage to your belongings. For larger homes or long-distance moves, the convenience and reduced risk of full service movers can be worth the higher price.

How many moving quotes should I get?

It is wise to get at least three quotes from reputable full service moving companies. Providing the same information to each mover helps you compare services, pricing, and terms fairly. This also gives you a better sense of the typical cost for your specific move.

Summary and Next Steps

Full service moving companies can handle most or all of the work involved in your move, from packing to unloading, which is especially helpful for busy families, larger homes, and long-distance relocations. You can expect local full service moves to start around a few hundred dollars and long-distance moves to reach several thousand, depending on distance, home size, and services. The key to a smooth move is planning early, understanding what is included, and comparing multiple detailed quotes.

Next, define your move details, decide how much help you want, and start requesting estimates from reputable movers. Comparing several full service moving quotes, checking reviews, and asking clear questions will help you choose the best option for your budget and stress level. Planning ahead and getting organized now will make moving day more predictable, less overwhelming, and easier on your wallet.