Understanding the True Cost of Your Full-Service Move
A full service moving cost estimate is not a one-size-fits-all number; it varies widely based on the unique details of your relocation. From the size of your home to the distance you’re traveling, numerous factors contribute to the final bill. To avoid unexpected expenses and budget effectively for your move, it’s crucial to understand exactly how professional movers calculate these costs.
Quick Cost Ranges for Full-Service Moves:
- Local moves (within Chicago/Illinois): $455 – $3,000
- Studio apartment (local): $340 – $870
- 2-3 bedroom home (local): $670 – $2,300
- Long-distance moves (out of state): $1,000 – $14,000+
- Packing services add: $900 – $1,500 on average
The final price on your estimate is primarily determined by a combination of key factors. The distance of your move is a foundational element, distinguishing between hourly-rated local moves and mileage-based long-distance ones. The total volume and weight of your belongings directly impacts the size of the truck and the number of movers needed. The level of packing services required, from a full-service pack to fragile-only, adds both cost and convenience. The time of year and day of the week can cause prices to fluctuate due to demand, with peak season moves costing more. Finally, additional fees for challenges like navigating multiple flights of stairs, long carries from the truck, or handling specialty items like pianos will also be factored in.
Full-service moving is designed to simplify your relocation by placing every aspect of the process—from meticulously packing your fragile items to safely transporting your entire household—in the hands of experienced professionals. This comprehensive service covers the disassembly of furniture, loading, driving, unloading, and even reassembly at your new home. However, this convenience comes with a price that can swing dramatically based on your specific needs. While industry averages suggest a local move costs around $1,250 and a long-distance move averages $4,890, these figures are merely a starting point. Your actual cost will be a direct reflection of the unique details of your move.
Whether you’re moving from Chicago to Florida or just across Melrose Park, the price hinges on more than just distance. The volume of your belongings, the season, and the specific services you choose all play a significant role. For example, a large home with many delicate items requiring professional packing will cost substantially more than a minimalist apartment, even if the travel distance is the same. Local moves are typically billed by the hour, which means efficiency is key, while long-distance relocations are priced by weight and mileage, making decluttering your most powerful cost-saving tool.
I’m Mina Georgalas, owner and president of Bernard Movers. With nearly 30 years of experience helping families in Chicago and across 45 states, my goal is to ensure you understand exactly what you’re paying for and get the best value for your move.
Full service moving cost estimate terms explained:
- affordable moving local and long distance moving services
- domestic movers and packers
- local professional moving services
Key Factors Influencing Your Full Service Moving Cost Estimate
Every move is unique, and understanding what drives the price of a full service moving cost estimate helps you budget smartly. Here are the primary factors.
- Distance: For local moves within Chicago or Illinois, we charge by the hour. The clock starts on arrival and stops when the job is done. For long-distance moves out of state, we calculate costs based on the weight of your belongings and the mileage to your new home.
- Volume and Weight: A studio apartment requires fewer movers and a smaller truck than a four-bedroom house. The more you have, the higher the cost.
- Timing: Peak season (May-September) and weekends have higher demand and prices. For potential savings, consider a mid-week, mid-month move during the off-season (October-April).
- Regulations: The Illinois Commerce Commission regulates movers, ensuring fair practices. In Chicago, factors like parking permits, building restrictions, and high-rise logistics can also affect the cost.
Average Costs: Local vs. Long-Distance Moves
The pricing models for local and long-distance moves are completely different. For Local Moving in the Chicago area, you’ll see hourly rates. A long-distance move is based on weight and mileage.
| Home Size | Local Move (Chicago/IL) | Long-Distance Move (1,000+ miles) |
|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartment | $340 – $870 (2-4 hours, 2 movers) | $2,200 – $3,500 (1-Bedroom APT) |
| 2-3 Bedroom Home | $670 – $2,300 (4-12 hours, 3-4 movers) | $6,300 – $9,250 |
| 4-5 Bedroom Home | $1,400 – $5,100 (8-14 hours, 4-5 movers) | $10,500 – $16,900 |
These ranges provide a realistic starting point, but your final full service moving cost estimate will depend on your specific needs.
How Home Size and Packing Affect Your Full Service Moving Cost Estimate
The volume of your belongings is more important than the size of your home. Whether it’s Apartment Moving or Household Moving, a detailed inventory is key to an accurate quote.
Packing and Unpacking Services add significant value and typically cost between $900 and $1,500. We offer several options:
- Full Packing: We pack everything.
- Partial Packing: You handle some rooms, we handle others.
- Fragile-Only Packing: We secure your most delicate items like glassware, art, and electronics.
While DIY packing saves money upfront, items we pack are covered under our liability protection. Professional packing not only saves you dozens of hours but also provides peace of mind.
Understanding Additional Services and Potential Fees
A standard move includes a move coordinator, transport, basic protection, and furniture disassembly/reassembly. However, certain situations may require additional services that affect your full service moving cost estimate. We believe in transparency and discuss these upfront:
- Stair/Long Carry Fees: For moves involving multiple flights of stairs or long distances from the truck to your door.
- Elevator/Shuttle Fees: Necessary for reserving elevators in high-rises or when a smaller shuttle truck is needed to steer narrow Chicago streets.
- Specialty Items: Pianos, safes, and heavy gym equipment require special handling. We offer expert Piano Moving and Fitness Equipment Movers services.
- Storage and Extra Stops: We provide Affordable Moving and Storage if your new home isn’t ready. Additional stops to pick up or drop off items will also add to the cost.
Full-Service Moving: Value and Considerations
Is full-service moving worth it? Consider the value of your time and peace of mind. A full-service move means we handle the packing, loading, driving, unloading, and unpacking. This saves you 30-40+ hours of packing and exhausting physical labor.
Professionals minimize the risk of damage. We use the right equipment and techniques, and items we pack are covered by our liability. Full-service moving is especially valuable if you’re on a tight deadline, have valuable items, or have physical limitations. It costs more than a DIY move, but the saved time, avoided stress, and reduced risk often make it the smarter investment.
How to Get an Accurate Quote and Save on Your Move
An accurate full service moving cost estimate provides peace of mind and prevents surprise charges. The key is transparency from both you and your mover.
You’ll generally see two types of quotes: a binding estimate, which is a guaranteed price for the agreed-upon items and services, and a non-binding estimate, which can change based on the actual weight and time. Before choosing a company, always check for proper licensing and insurance. Our Moving Tips page offers guidance on how to research movers effectively.
Getting a Precise Full Service Moving Cost Estimate
The best estimates come from a thorough assessment. We offer two primary methods:
- In-Home Estimate: Our gold standard. An estimator visits your home in Chicago, Melrose Park, or elsewhere in Illinois to conduct a detailed walkthrough.
- Virtual Video Survey: A highly accurate alternative where we guide you through your home using your smartphone or tablet.
For either method, a detailed inventory list is crucial. Be honest about everything you plan to move, including items in storage, to ensure your quote is accurate. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about your quote. For more details, visit our Moving Estimate page or our guide on Best Practices for Moving Estimates in Chicago. We recommend getting at least three quotes to compare and ensure you’re getting fair value.
Smart Strategies to Reduce Your Moving Expenses
While a full-service move is an investment, you can be strategic about the cost.
- Declutter: This is your most effective cost-cutting tool. Since movers charge by volume and weight, every item you sell, donate, or toss is money saved. Start your step-by-step guide to the pre-move purge at least a month in advance.
- Time Your Move: If possible, schedule your move during the off-season (October-April) and on a weekday (Tuesday-Thursday) to take advantage of lower demand and better rates. Our article on When you move has more timing strategies.
- Book in Advance: Booking at least six to eight weeks ahead gives you more options and can help you secure a better price, especially during peak season.
- Tipping Movers: While not required, a tip for a job well done is always appreciated. A common guideline is $20 per mover for a local job or $30-$50 per mover for a more demanding one. Learn more about etiquette on our tip your movers page.
- Tax Deductions: While most moving expenses are no longer deductible, Military personnel on a permanent change of station can still deduct unreimbursed costs.
Ready for an accurate full service moving cost estimate for your move in Chicago, Melrose Park, or anywhere across Illinois? Contact Bernard Movers today. We’re currently offering a 20% additional discount on moves to Georgia and Florida booked for delivery by March 15, 2025.
Find out more about our services in Chicago and get your personalized estimate.