Getting ready to move within the next few weeks? The moving process is stressful, and it becomes even more daunting when you start thinking: “How much will my move cost?” The truth is that moving costs can vary greatly, but you can help lessen stress and surprises with some careful planning and research into how much do movers cost in Philadelphia.
In this handy guide, we’ve tapped into our 10+ years of experience in the moving business and what we’ve learned from working with over 5,000+ customers. We’ll cover more than just questions like “how much do movers cost Philadelphia?”–we’ll also go in depth about what factors affect moving cost, provide cost comparisons, advise on hidden fees to watch for, and more.
Table of Contents
Quick Answers to How Much Do Movers Cost Philadelphia
If you’re wondering how much do movers cost in Philadelphia, these average price ranges offer a helpful starting point. Local moves in Philadelphia average $250-$2,600, depending on the size of your home. For long distance moves, the cost can average $2,400-$7,000, with some of the most expensive moves reaching $9,000.
Your home size, number and weight of items to be moved, time of year, and additional services you’d need like piano moving and professional packing services all affect cost. These figures reflect typical scenarios for homeowners researching how much do movers cost Philadelphia.
Ready to make a move soon? Get a fast quote for your specific moving needs, call us at (610) 314-6868.
Average Cost of Local Movers in Philadelphia
How much do local movers cost? The size of your home has the largest impact on Philadelphia moving costs. And with your home’s size in mind, note that the typical hourly moving rates for the Philadelphia market are between $130-$450.
The following cost breakdowns are hourly rates and include the truck, cost of basic materials needed for the job, plus the number of movers needed (anywhere from 2-6). They will give you an idea of how much movers cost in Philadelphia.
Some Philadelphia movers include the truck in their hourly rate, while others may charge a separate truck or travel fee. Additional services such as packing and storage will increase your total cost.
| Studio/1 Bedroom | 2 Bedroom | 3 Bedroom | 4 Bedroom | |
| Cost | $3oo | $900-$1,250 | $2,000-$2,800 | $3,000-4,000 |
| Typical Duration | 2-3 hours | 4.5-6.5 hours | 5.5-7.5 hours | 6-8 hours |
| Number of movers | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
Long Distance Moving Costs From Philadelphia Professional Movers
When it comes to long distance moves, the answer to how much do movers cost Philadelphia is quite different. Instead of hourly rates, most long-distance movers use weight-based pricing, which is based on the total weight of your belongings to be moved rather than the time it takes to load and transport them.
Weight-Based Pricing vs. Hourly Pricing
How much do movers cost in Philadelphia when it comes to weight-based pricing vs. hourly pricing?
Hourly pricing is typically used for local moves. Hourly charges are based on the number of movers used plus the number of hours it took to complete the job. On the other hand, weight-based pricing is commonly used for long-distance moves and is calculated based on the total weight of your belongings. The heavier your belongings, the more expensive your move will be.
Typical Weight-Based Moving Costs
When estimating how much do movers cost Philadelphia for long-distance moves, pricing is often based on weight rather than hourly labor. For Philadelphia long distance moves, movers often charge $0.50–$1.00 per pound, depending on the distance and time of year.
For example, let’s say you’re moving the contents of your 2-bedroom apartment or small house from Philadelphia to Washington, DC. If the contents of your home weigh around 5,000 pounds, you can expect to pay anywhere from $2,500-$5,000. But for an accurate amount, be sure to ask for a quote.
Most moving companies have minimum weight requirements for weight-based moving. If the weight of your belongings doesn’t meet the minimum, you may still be charged the minimum weight cost.
Additional Long Distance Fees
Aside from weight-based pricing, moving fees can include: fuel surcharges, toll fees, storage-in-transit charges, and guaranteed or expedited delivery windows. Ask about these fees beforehand and when researching how much do movers cost in Philadelphia so there are no surprises when it comes time to pay.
Factors That Affect Moving Costs
When you ask how much do movers cost in Philadelphia, know that several factors will influence the cost of your move, and distance is one of the largest. Local moves are typically priced by the hour, and long-distance moves are usually priced by weight. For example, at Suburban Solutions, we consider a move local if it’s under 20 miles or one hour of travel time, which keeps pricing in the hourly range.
Additional cost factors include:
- Home size: Larger homes usually mean you have more belongings, which increases both the time required for local moves and the weight of shipments for long-distance moves. Even if you have a smaller home, extras like a garage or storage area can add up quickly.
- Accessibility: Stairs, elevators, tight hallways, long walks from the truck, and even limited or restricted parking slow down moves and increase labor time. In dense urban areas like Philadelphia, parking logistics alone can impact the final cost.
- Timing: Moving during the summer months, on weekends, and at the end of the month costs more because they’re peak times. If you have a flexible schedule, moving during off-peak times lowers your overall cost.
- Extra services: Additional services, such as packing and unpacking, cost more than labor-only options. DIY packing can reduce costs—but bear in mind that it can also put unnecessary strain on your body.
When estimating how much do movers cost in Philadelphia, specialty needs can add to your total. Items like pianos, antiques, hot tubs, and gun safes require extra care and special equipment to move. For items like these, opt for full valuation protection beyond basic coverage. While it will increase costs, it’s worth the added peace of mind.
Full-Service Moving vs. Labor-Only: Cost Comparison
When planning a move, one of the biggest cost factors is whether you choose full-service or labor-only moving. The right option depends on how much heavy lifting you can do. This choice has a major impact on how much do movers cost Philadelphia overall.
Full Service Moving Companies
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The movers handle almost everything. This typically includes packing, packing materials, loading the truck, transporting your items, unloading, and unpacking at your destination.
Full-service moves cost more, but save time you could spend on other moving matters. They also reduce stress and decrease your chances of getting hurt.
Suburban Solutions offers full-service options that are designed to take care of the entire process from start to finish. This all-inclusive approach is a key reason how much do movers cost Philadelphia is higher for full-service moves compared to labor-only options.
Labor-Only Moving
In this case, the movers provide the muscle for loading and unloading while you drive the truck, transport your items, and pack. Since labor-only moving doesn’t include packing services or a moving truck, it costs less and works well for DIY moves, rental trucks, or smaller relocations.
Suburban Solutions also offers labor only services for customers who want professional help without the full-service price.
Full-Service VS Labor-Only Service Price Comparison
In terms of price difference, full-service moves typically cost several hundred to several thousand dollars more than labor-only moves, depending on the size and scope of the move. Labor-only services are generally charged at a lower hourly rate, with a required minimum number of movers, hours, or even both, since fewer services are involved.
Between full-service moving and labor-only moving, which option makes the most sense?
If you’re short on time, moving a larger home, have mobility issues, or just want a more hands-off experience, full-service moving is worth the price. If keeping expenses down is important to you and you don’t mind handling most of the move yourself, then labor-only moving is the way to go.
Add-On Service Costs
For additional moving services, these are roughly the prices you can expect to see from Philadelphia movers:
- Packing services: $280-$2,2000 for full packing, partial packing, and even room-specific packing. Suburban Solutions has packing kits available for $149, and $139 for each additional kit you purchase. Each kit comes with supplies to pack up a single room.
- Unpacking services: $100-$1,400
- Storage: Short-term and long-term rates can run from $50-$500/month
- Junk removal: $95-$650 for single items to a full truck
- Specialty item handling (e.g. pianos): Varies widely, request a quote
- Packing supplies: $150+
When Is the Cheapest Time to Hire Movers?
If you’re trying to keep moving costs down, timing makes a big difference. In general, the least expensive time to hire movers is during the off-peak moving season, typically the winter months. Mid-month and weekday moves also tend to be affordable. This is why people comparing how much do movers cost Philadelphia often see lower prices during off-peak times.
Summer is the most expensive time to hire professional movers. But moving prices are also higher at the end of the month, on weekends, and around common move-in dates like the 1st or 15th.
If you’re flexible with your moving dates, you can potentially save hundreds of dollars off average moving costs. Try shifting your move from a weekend to a weekday, or from the end of the month to the middle of the month. Off-peak moves are less stressful, and you’ll find you have more scheduling options.
To ensure your preferred mover is available, book earlier than later—especially if you’re moving during peak season. For summer or end-of-month moves, book four to six weeks in advance. For off-season moves, you can probably get away with booking two to three weeks out. However, locking in your moving dates further in advance can help you secure better availability and pricing.
Hidden Fees to Watch Out for
When researching how much do movers cost in Philadelphia, hidden fees are one of the most common reasons final bills come in higher than expected. When you compare quotes, questions like “how much does it cost?” sometimes won’t get you all the information you need. That’s because certain common fees in the moving industry are unfamiliar to customers.
Long Carry Fee
A long carry fee applies when movers have to walk a long distance from your home to the truck. This is usually due to limited parking or building restrictions.
Stair Charges
Stair charges may be applied if your move involves multiple flights of stairs, especially in walk-up buildings.
Elevator Fees
If your move involves using an elevator, waiting for it will slow down the move time, and you may be charged an elevator fee.
Travel Time
Travel time includes the drive from the mover’s facility to your home and back—it is not the travel time from your move origin to your destination.
Fuel Surcharges
Fuel surcharges are sometimes added to account for gas costs, particularly for longer moves or during periods of high gas prices.
Last-Minute Cancellation Fees
May apply if you change or cancel your move date at the last minute. Be sure to give enough notice if your plans change.
Pennsylvania Pricing Disclosure Guidelines
Professional movers in Pennsylvania must follow pricing and disclosure guidelines set by the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC PA). They protect consumers and ensure estimates are provided in writing.
Transparent pricing matters. And reputable movers like Suburban Solutions always provide clear, written estimates so you know exactly what to expect before booking.
Transparent pricing matters. And reputable movers like Suburban Solutions always provide clear, written estimates so you know exactly what to expect before booking.
How to Save Money on Your Move
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Moving is expensive, but with smart planning, you can get the most out of your budget and save money. These strategies are especially useful for anyone researching how much do movers cost Philadelphia and looking to stay within budget.
To save money on a Philadelphia movers cost, consider:
Booking during off-peak times: Winter months, the middle of the week, and mid-month are some of the best times to book. Moving services are less expensive and easier to book since there’s less demand.
Decluttering before you move: Less items to haul means less work and hours required to complete your move. Before moving, go through your belongings. Donate items, throw out what you don’t need, or have a yardsale.
Doing your own packing: Pack your own belongings and save a significant amount of money. However, if you find yourself overwhelmed by your move or have mobility issues, professional packing is a great option.
Asking about discounts: Never be embarrassed to ask about discounts because many movers do offer them. Senior, military, and off-season discounts, even at 5-10% off of a moving bill, can result in significant savings.
Getting multiple quotes: Since moving costs in Philadelphia vary, get quotes from a few different companies. Just be sure you’re comparing similar services.
Staying flexible with your moving dates: Be open to adjusting your move date. Or, choose a delivery window instead of a guaranteed date–doing so can sometimes lower your cost.
Moving Cost Comparison Table
Use this cost comparison table for a quick idea of what Philadelphia moving company rates are.
| Studio | 1 Bedroom | 2 Bedroom | 3 Bedroom | 4 Bedroom | |
| Local Moving Cost Range | $350-$540 | $540-$735 | $900-$1,250 | $2,000-$2,800 | $3,000-$4,000 |
| Typical Duration | 2-3 hours | 2-3 hours | 4.5-6.5 hours | 5.5-7.5 hours | 6-8 hours |
| Long Distance Cost Estimate | $500-$2,500 | $700-$3,000 | $1,000-$6,000 | $1,400-$8,000 | $1,800-$10,000 |
How to Get an Accurate Moving Quote
If you’re trying to determine how much do movers cost in Philadelphia, getting an accurate, detailed quote is the most important step. For the most accurate moving quote, know all the details about your home and its contents. Have an idea of your moving date, keep addresses on hand, and know your home size.
If there are stairs, elevators, or tight parking to navigate, mention that. Also mention any large or specialty items that you will need help moving so your estimate is as accurate as possible.
Have questions ready. Ask what’s included in your quote and whether the truck and travel time are built into the rate. Ask about any additional fees. Find out how pricing is calculated, and what happens if your move takes longer than expected.
Watch out for red flags. These include estimates that seem too good to be true—they may not have included all of the required services or fees. Also, be cautious if a mover insists on cash-only payments, refuses to give you a written estimate, or insists on large upfront deposits.
For an accurate estimate, an in-home or virtual walkthrough estimate is better than a phone call. When a company representative can see your space and belongings, access ways, and assess potential challenges, they can provide a proper estimate.
At the end of the day, the best way to avoid guesswork when receiving a moving quote is to work with a reputable mover like Suburban Solutions. Work with us and get a free, no-obligation quote. We always provide honest, written pricing.
Get Ready for Your Philadelphia Move
The cost of movers Philadelphia varies widely. But most local moves fall between $300 and $4,000, depending on your home size, timing of your move, and any additional service add-ons. Long-distance moves can range from $500 to $10,000, with pricing based on the weight of your belongings and any additional services you add. These ranges provide a practical snapshot of how much do movers cost Philadelphia for most residential moves.
These average cost of movers Philadelphia figures are helpful for planning, but the actual cost depends on your unique moving situation.
There’s no reason to be in the dark about your next move. Contact our reliable Philadelphia movers at Suburban Solutions for exceptional service. Call us today at (610) 314-6868 for a free quote with a quick response time and transparent moving company prices Philadelphia.
