Understanding Your 1-Bedroom Apartment Moving Costs
Planning a move for your moving company for 1 bedroom apartment can bring up many questions, especially about cost. Knowing what to expect financially helps you plan better and avoid surprises.
Here’s a quick look at the average costs:
- The average cost to move a 1-bedroom apartment typically falls around $1,850.
- For local moves (under 100 miles) in areas like Chicago, expect to pay between $400 and $1,600.
- Long-distance moves for a 1-bedroom apartment usually range from $700 to $3,000.
This guide will break down these numbers. It will show you what drives the price.
I’m Mina Georgalas, owner and president of Bernard Movers. With 30 years of experience, I’ve helped countless individuals and families in Chicago, Melrose Park, and across Illinois steer their moving company for 1 bedroom apartment needs smoothly. We’re here to make your move stress-free.
Breaking Down the Costs of Moving a 1-Bedroom Apartment in Chicago, Melrose Park, and Illinois
Moving a 1-bedroom apartment requires careful planning and budgeting. While the average cost is around $1,850, this can vary. Local moves (under 100 miles) in areas like Chicago or Melrose Park typically range from $400 to $1,600. Long-distance moves can cost between $700 and $3,000. At Bernard Movers, we provide clear, upfront quotes to help you understand these costs. For more details, see our guides on How Much Do Movers Cost in Chicago? and Local Movers Chicago.
What Factors Influence the Price?
Several factors influence the cost of hiring a moving company for 1 bedroom apartment:
- Distance of Your Move: This is a primary cost driver. Local moves (under 100 miles) in areas like Chicago are typically priced hourly, ranging from $400 to $1,600. Long-distance moves are based on the total weight of your shipment and the distance traveled, usually costing between $700 and $3,000.
- Weight of Your Belongings: The contents of a 1-bedroom apartment typically weigh between 1,800 and 3,500 pounds. More weight means more cost, especially for long-distance moves. For instance, a large collection of books, solid wood furniture, or extensive kitchenware can significantly increase the weight compared to a more minimalist apartment with flat-pack furniture.
- Timing of Your Move: Moving during the peak season (April to September) or on weekends is more expensive due to high demand. If a summer move is unavoidable, booking your moving company for 1 bedroom apartment several months in advance is crucial to secure a spot and potentially avoid last-minute price hikes. Opting for a mid-week, off-season move can lead to significant savings.
- Apartment Access: The ease of access to your apartment affects the time and labor required. In cities like Chicago, this can include navigating narrow stairwells, booking a specific time slot for the service elevator, securing a parking permit for the moving truck, or dealing with a “long carry”—the distance from your door to the truck. An experienced mover like Bernard Movers will ask about these details upfront to provide an accurate quote and come prepared, preventing delays and extra charges on moving day. These factors are especially important in high-rise buildings.
Labor, Packing, and Additional Fees
Beyond the base rate, other costs can affect your total.
- Labor Costs: For local moves, expect an hourly rate of $25-$50 per mover. A 1-bedroom apartment move typically takes 3-5 hours with a 2-3 person crew, making labor costs around $200-$400. This rate covers not just the heavy lifting but also the professional handling of your items, including wrapping furniture and protecting your old and new homes from damage.
- Packing Services: Professional packing saves time and stress. Full packing services can add $500-$1,500. This service not only saves you dozens of hours but also ensures your items are secure, as our teams use industry-grade materials and techniques. For those on a tighter budget, partial packing for just the kitchen or fragile items ($200-$400) offers a great middle ground.
- Packing Materials: If you buy your own, budget around $150. If provided by the movers, it could add $100-$300 to your bill. Professional movers use high-quality materials that offer better protection than what you might find at a local store.
- Travel Fees: This covers the crew’s travel time to and from your locations, typically costing $50-$200. It’s a standard charge for most local movers.
- Specialty Item Fees: Moving large or delicate items like pianos, large-scale artwork, antique furniture, or heavy gym equipment may incur extra fees of $100-$300 per item. These fees cover the special equipment, handling, and expertise required to move them safely. Our Full Service Moving options can cover all these details for you.
Comparing Moving Approaches: Full-Service vs. Partial-Service with Bernard Movers
Choosing the right level of service from a moving company for 1 bedroom apartment is key to managing your budget. At Bernard Movers, we offer flexible options, from full-service to partial-service, to fit your needs. Here’s a comparison for a 1-bedroom apartment move in Illinois:
| Feature | Full-Service Moving (Bernard Movers) | Partial-Service (DIY Packing) |
|---|---|---|
| What’s Included | We handle everything: packing, loading, transport, unloading, and even unpacking. All supplies are included. | You pack your belongings. We handle the heavy lifting: loading, transporting, and unloading your furniture and packed boxes. |
| Estimated Cost | $1,000 – $3,000+ for a 1-bedroom apartment, depending on the volume and distance. | $400 – $1,500, as you save on the labor costs for packing. |
| Time & Effort | Minimal for you. We manage the entire process, saving you time and energy. | Significant. You’ll need to dedicate time to packing and sourcing your own materials. |
| Risk of Damage | Low. Our professional packers use proper techniques, and our services include insurance coverage. | Higher. Improperly packed items are more prone to damage, which may not be covered by insurance. |
| Best For | Those who prioritize convenience and a stress-free experience. | Budget-conscious individuals with the time and willingness to pack their own items. |
Ultimately, the choice between full-service and partial-service depends on your priorities. If your primary concern is minimizing stress and saving time, especially if you have a demanding job or a busy family life, the investment in full-service moving pays for itself in peace of mind. However, if you’re working with a strict budget and have the time and energy to pack, a partial-service move is an excellent way to get professional help for the most physically demanding parts of the job while controlling costs. Explore all your Moving Options Chicago with us!
How to Choose the Best Moving Company for a 1-Bedroom Apartment
Choosing the right moving company for 1 bedroom apartment is a big step, especially if you’re in a busy city like Chicago or a charming suburb like Melrose Park. It’s about more than just finding someone to lift boxes; it’s about trust and making sure your belongings arrive safely. At Bernard Movers, we want to help you feel confident in your choice. Our goal is to make sure your move is smooth, and that your treasured items are handled with the care they deserve.
If you’re looking for a deeper dive into how we approach finding the perfect movers for you, take a look at our In-depth Guide to Finding Reliable Movers in Chicago. You’ll see why we’re often listed among the Best Moving Companies Chicago.
How to Save Money and Prepare for Your Move
Moving a 1-bedroom apartment can be affordable with smart planning. Here are some tips to keep costs down:
- Declutter: Go through each room and create three piles: keep, donate/sell, and discard. The less volume and weight you have, the lower your moving cost. This is the single most effective way to save money before you even start packing.
- Be Flexible with Timing: Moving during the off-season (fall/winter) and on a weekday can significantly lower your costs. Demand is lower, so moving companies often offer better rates.
- DIY Packing: Packing your own boxes can save you hundreds of dollars in labor costs. While you can purchase new boxes, you can also save money by sourcing free, sturdy boxes from local stores or online community groups. Just ensure they are clean and strong, and invest in quality packing tape and markers for clear labeling.
- Get Multiple Quotes: Contact at least three reputable moving companies to compare their prices and services. When comparing quotes, ensure you’re looking at an “apples-to-apples” comparison. Does one quote include services that another lists as an add-on? Be wary of quotes that seem significantly lower than others, as they may hide fees or indicate a less reputable company.
- Stay Organized: A detailed moving checklist will help you manage tasks and avoid last-minute, costly surprises. For more advice, see our Moving Tips and Moving Out of State Budget guides.
What to Look for in a Reputable Moving Company
Finding the right moving company for 1 bedroom apartment ensures a smooth experience. Here’s what to look for:
- Licensing and Insurance: Verify the company is properly licensed and insured. All interstate movers must have a USDOT number, which you can verify on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website. For moves within Illinois, movers need a license from the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC). Regarding insurance, “Released Value Protection” is the basic, no-cost option, but it provides minimal coverage (typically 60 cents per pound per item). For true peace of mind, we strongly recommend “Full-Value Protection.” This means the moving company is liable for the replacement value of any lost or damaged item, offering much more comprehensive coverage. As Licensed Insured Movers, we offer both options.
- Positive Customer Reviews: Check online reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau to gauge a company’s reliability and service quality. Look for consistent themes in feedback. See what our customers say about us.
- Apartment Moving Experience: Choose a mover experienced with the challenges of apartment moves in areas like Chicago. A company familiar with your area’s building layouts, parking rules, and elevator restrictions can anticipate challenges and prevent costly delays.
- Transparent Pricing: A reputable mover provides a detailed, upfront quote with no hidden fees. The estimate should clearly list all charges, including labor, travel time, materials, and any potential extra fees.
- Included Services: Ask what’s included in the base price, such as furniture wrapping, disassembly/reassembly, and property protection (like floor runners and door jamb protectors). These details reflect a company’s commitment to quality service.
Final Steps: Booking Your Move and What to Expect
Once you’ve chosen your ideal moving company for 1 bedroom apartment, it’s time to book. We recommend booking 4-6 weeks in advance, but for moves during the peak summer months (May-August) or at the end of the month, we recommend booking 8 weeks in advance to secure your preferred date and crew.
Before finalizing, carefully review your moving quote or binding estimate. Ensure all services are listed and you understand the pricing. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about your Moving Estimate or the terms in the bill of lading.
What to Expect on Moving Day
On the day of your move, the crew will typically start with a walkthrough to confirm the scope of work. They will then protect your home by laying down floor runners and padding banisters or door jambs. Furniture will be disassembled as needed and professionally wrapped in moving blankets. Once everything is loaded, they will transport it to your new home, unload it, and place furniture and boxes in the designated rooms. Be prepared to be present or have a representative available to answer questions and direct the crew. A final walkthrough ensures everything has been delivered and placed to your satisfaction.
At Bernard Movers, we bring decades of experience to every move in Chicago, Melrose Park, and across Illinois. We understand the specifics of Apartment Moving and are committed to a stress-free experience for you.
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We’re more than just movers; we’re your partners in this transition. As an example of our commitment, we’re currently offering a 20% additional discount on moves to Georgia and Florida booked for delivery by March 15, 2025. While your move might be local, it shows our dedication to helping clients wherever they go.
