So you’re moving. One of the biggest decisions you can make during this pivotal time is whether to hire a professional mover or whether you’d rather DIY.
The biggest benefit of DIY is saving money. But how much will you actually save? This article will break down the pros and cons of each, so you can decide which is right for you.
Professional Movers vs. DIY Moves
Let’s start by comparing the two options based on what’s included and the benefits and disadvantages of each.
Option 1: Hiring Professional Movers
What You Get
- Loading and unloading
- A truck, fuel, and basic equipment
- Basic liability and valuation coverage
- Optional services such as packing, unpacking, furniture disassembly and reassembly, and storage
Pros of Hiring Movers
- Less physical labor and injury risk
- A faster, more efficient move
- Less chance of damage to furniture and items
Cons of Hiring Movers
- Higher upfront costs than DIY
- The need to research and vet services, minimizing scam risks, and ensuring fair pricing
- Less control over timing windows- you must work within their schedule
- Extra fees possible due to stairs, long carries, heavy items, etc.
Option 2: DIY Move
What’s Involved
- Handling all packing and organization
- Renting, borrowing, or using your own car, truck, van, or trailer to transport items
- Possibly asking friends for help
Pros of a DIY Move
- Lower upfront expenses
- Full control of the schedule
- Can spread the move over multiple days to work within your schedule
Cons of a DIY Move
- Physically demanding- high injury risks
- More time-consuming
- Higher risk of damage to belongings or property
- Hidden costs- these include fuel, mileage, extended time expenses, equipment rental, and possibly paying friends to help
- The stress of driving a large truck, parking, and navigating
Costs Comparison
Now, let’s compare these two options, looking solely at the costs involved.
Direct Cost of Hiring Movers
- Hourly or flat rate charges
- Travel time and fuel surcharges
- Packing materials or services, if used
- Optional insurance upgrades
According to Angi, the average cost to hire a professional mover for a local move ranges from $951 to $3,254, depending on location.
Direct Cost of a DIY Move
- Truck rental and insurance
- Mileage and fuel costs
- Packing material
- Parking and tolls
With varied costs, it’s difficult to estimate the total expense of a DIY move. However, research shows it typically falls between $150 and $ 1,500 for a local move.
Indirect ‘Hidden’ Costs of a DIY Move
- Lost wages due to time off work
- Takeout meals during moving days
- Hotel stays or extra days of rent for moves that extend across multiple days
- Potential cost of damaged items of property
- Medical bills and lost wages due to recovery time if someone is injured.
Questions to Ask Yourself
Let’s face it. Most of us would rather have the work done for us, but money is a concern. However, individual factors can tip the scales one way or another.
Here are some questions to ask yourself to help you make your choice.
- Do I have the time to move? Consider how long the move will realistically take and determine if you can fit it into your schedule.
- Do I have the physical ability to move? Age, health, injuries, and lifting experience may impact your ability to move safely
- What is my moving situation? Anyone who remembers the ‘pivot scene’ on Friendsknows how difficult it can be to move large items through stairs and tight spaces. Consider also the distance you must move across. Can you load directly into the home, or will you be moving heavy furniture items across gardens and patios?
- How many pieces do I need to move, and how big are they? You may want to leave complex moves to a professional.
- Do I require special handling? Artwork, antiques, glass, and appliances may require a specialized approach.
- What is my emotional state? If your move is stressing you out, consider how stressful it can be to drive a big truck, deal with potential damage, and navigate the general chaos.
Rules of Thumb
While everyone has different criteria when deciding which is right for them, here are some guidelines that may help you determine when to hire professionals:
- You’re moving a 2+ bedroom home
- You have physical limitations
- You have stairs, long carries, and items that are heavy and need specialized care
- You’re short on time and can’t take the time off work
DIY may be better if:
- You’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with minimal furniture
- It’s a short, local move
- You have strong, reliable helpers
- You’re budget-conscious and okay with dealing with some stress
Opting for a Hybrid Approach
You may also consider a hybrid approach, which involves hiring pros only for:
- Loading and unloading, not driving
- Just moving heavy, bulky, or fragile items
- Using portable storage containers that they drop off. You load the containers for them to move and store.
Starving Students is a Top Professional Moving Choice
Professional moving may not be the right choice in every situation, but if it’s your choice, Starving Students can help. From local moves to international moves, no job is too big or too small. We offer a wide range of commercial and residential services, ensuring an approach that suits your needs. Our focus on providing quality, stress-free services at an affordable price sets us apart from the competition.
Contact us when you’re ready for your next move.
FAQs
Is hiring professional movers really more expensive than a DIY move?
The upfront cost of hiring professionals is typically more expensive. However, DIY costs can add up, especially when you consider potential injuries and damage, as well as time off work. Consider your individual situation to decide which is best for you.
How do I estimate the cost difference between hiring movers and renting a truck?
To estimate cost differences, get written estimates from 2-3 licensed companies, including a breakdown of everything that’s included and optional services. Then calculate your DIY costs, including truck rental, estimated mileage, fuel, equipment rentals, packing materials, and any other expenses. But both totals on a spreadsheet and compare them.
How do I know if a moving company is reputable and not a scam?
A reputable company will have a license number, physical address, and solid online reviews. They will provide an estimate and a contract, and won’t demand large, cash-only deposits.
