A happy young couple kiss while carrying brown cardboard moving boxes as part of their DIY move.
A happy young couple kiss while carrying brown cardboard moving boxes as part of their DIY move.

Hiring movers versus moving yourself is one of the biggest questions people ask when planning their relocation. One of the reasons for this is the perceived high cost of professional moving services. That said, additional hidden costs of DIY moving — especially in terms of time — make a compelling argument for hiring professionals.

What is a full-service mover?

Full-service movers handle all aspects of your relocation from start to finish. They’re ideal for people who prefer a hands-off approach to moving or want to ensure their belongings receive the utmost care. Many people hire this type of moving company for long-distance moving services because those relocations are stressful enough without help.

What full-service movers offer

Full-service movers provide a comprehensive range of services to simplify your long-distance move, including:

  • Packing and unpacking: Professional movers carefully pack your belongings with high-quality materials to minimize damage during transit. Upon arrival at your new home, they’ll unpack everything and place your items in the rooms where they go. When using moving and packing services, clearly designate what movers are responsible for to avoid confusion. 
  • Loading and unloading: Movers handle the heavy lifting of getting your items on and off the truck.  
  • Transportation: Long-distance movers transport your belongings in a secure truck, reducing the risk of damage during transit. The items typically remain on the truck until they arrive at your home.  
  • Specialized care: Full-service movers have extensive experience moving all kinds of items. They know how to handle irregular furniture, electronics, antiques, artwork, and fragile furniture. The latter often require special attention, so full-service movers use their expertise to handle these items. 
  • Insurance options: Reputable full-service movers offer various insurance plans to protect your belongings against loss or damage. Don’t settle for basic coverage; inquire about all types of protection.

Pros and cons of full-service movers

Hiring movers is a matter of convenience. You can focus on other aspects of the move while the professionals handle logistics. This saves you time and means your items are properly packed for safety and security. 

There are a couple of downsides, however. For one, full-service movers are more expensive than DIY moves or even some partially supported ones. It also means you have less control and oversight over your move as you entrust your belongings to them.

Container truck moving

If you’re looking for a moving option that is a middle ground between full-service moving services and DIY relocation, consider using container trucks. A container truck solution is a flexible, cost-effective way to relocate. 

With this method, a moving company delivers a portable container to your home. You pack and load at your own pace. Then, schedule pick-up and delivery at your new home. Container truck moves offer several advantages and drawbacks, which we’ll outline below.

Pros of container truck moving

One of the biggest advantages of container truck moving is how affordable it is. Containers often cost less than hiring full-service moving companies. This makes it ideal for budget-conscious consumers. There’s also more flexibility. You can pack and load the container on your schedule. Flexibility reduces the stress of rushing to meet moving company deadlines.

Container moving also means you don’t have to drive a truck. That’s a big benefit for people not comfortable maneuvering a box truck on city streets or interstate highways.

Cons of container truck moving

Container truck moving isn’t perfect. Packing at your own pace means you’re responsible for properly securing your items. Unless you plan carefully, loading heavy items and furniture into the container may cause injuries. Always be sure to use proper lifting techniques to reduce this risk. Without help from professionals, there’s a higher risk of items shifting or getting damaged during transit. That could also make them hard to unload. 

Be aware that not all homes or apartments can accommodate a large container either. You might run into trouble in neighborhoods with strict parking rules or urban areas with limited parking.

Renting a moving truck

Depending on the quoted cost for residential moving services, you may think that renting a moving truck is the best option. And it can be for certain types of moves. Renting a truck for a DIY move does come with several challenges, too, which you should be mindful of as you consider your options. 

Renting a truck is often more affordable than hiring professional movers, especially for local moves. You pay a flat rental fee for a day or two, making it easier to estimate costs. That convenience and flexibility extends to scheduling. You can set your own timeline for packing, loading, and driving, offering more control over the moving process. Finally, rental trucks accommodate furniture, appliances, and large boxes. That’s ideal for transporting bulky items. 

The downsides to renting a moving truck are numerous, though. Operating a large truck can be intimidating, especially if you’re not used to it. Maneuvering in tight spaces, managing blind spots, and parking can all be stressful and challenging. DIY moving also makes you responsible for all heavy lifting, which can be exhausting at best and increases the risk of injury at worst. 

Even though truck rental itself can be inexpensive, several additional costs can quickly add up, including mileage fees, gas, taxes, and optional truck insurance. You’ll also need to pay for boxes, dollies, and furniture pads to pack and protect your belongings. 

Renting a moving truck is great for those who feel comfortable maneuvering large vehicles, but the physical demands and potential hidden costs should be factored in. If you’re prepared for these challenges, however, the DIY moving approach can help you save money and get the job done.

Choosing between hiring movers or moving yourself

Choosing between hiring movers or a DIY move is a personal decision that depends on several factors, including the type of move. For example, residential moves are more friendly to DIY moves than corporate moves

One major consideration is the distance of your move. Shorter moves where you handle packing, loading, driving, and unloading may save you money. But how much will that additional effort cost you in terms of effort, gas, and supplies? 

For long-distance moves, the challenges of driving a large vehicle and managing logistics can quickly add up. Hiring professional moving services can simplify the process and offer convenience that reduces stress. Consider your time and physical capacity. Think about whether the ease of hiring movers outweighs the financial costs. 

If you know third-party moving services make sense for your move, consider using a moving broker to streamline the process. Brokers source quotes from several moving service providers at once. This leaves you even more time to focus on other essential aspects of your move.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest method of moving?

The cheapest way to move is typically renting a truck and moving yourself. You can save on labor costs, but expenses like gas, mileage, and supplies can add to your overall total cost.

Moving on your own can take anywhere from a single day to several days, depending on your home’s size and the distance you’re traveling. Time spent packing, loading, driving, and unloading can extend the process.

Negotiate with a moving company by obtaining quotes from several providers and comparing rates. Ask about discounts, seasonal promotions, or packages. Be clear about your budget to find a solution that works.