How long does a one-bedroom move take and what does it cost?
Most one-bedroom apartments take between 3 and 5 hours with a crew of three. At $175 an hour for the team and truck, a typical bill falls between $525 and $875, plus packing materials if you use them.
The longer answer
Cost at each hour mark
| Hours | 3 movers at $175/hr |
|---|---|
| 3 (minimum) | $525 |
| 3.5 | $612.50 |
| 4 | $700 |
| 4.5 | $787.50 |
| 5 | $875 |
Billing is in 15-minute steps once the first 3 hours are used, so you pay for the time actually worked.
Where in that range you will land
For a 750 sq ft unit that the customer has packed in advance, David usually expects the job to finish within 3 to 4 hours. The upper end comes from things like:
- A bedroom set plus a sectional and a dining table to take apart
- Lots of loose kitchen items still in cabinets
- Narrow stairs, a slow elevator or a long walk from parking
- A drive of more than 10 minutes between homes, which is counted twice under California rules
Already included in the hourly rate
- Taking apart and putting back together the bed, sectional and dining table
- Moving blankets and tape
- Wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes, returned after
- Carpet runners and blankets to protect floors
Packing yourself is fine; just make sure everything is in sealed boxes rather than bags, since loose items and bags slow the load.
If you want a firm maximum before booking, ask for the free on-site estimate or start with the quote form. The cost guide has more examples.
Keep reading
More questions people ask
Is 3 movers too many for a one-bedroom?
Three is our standard because it keeps the clock moving. Two movers at $145 an hour are available on request for very small loads.
Does a one-bedroom on the third floor cost more?
There is no stair fee. Stairs only matter because carrying takes longer.
How do I keep a one-bedroom move near 3 hours?
Have everything boxed and sealed, the drawers empty, and parking close to the door before the crew arrives.
Are there hidden charges on a one-bedroom move?
No tax, mileage, fuel or elevator surcharges are added. You see hours worked, any double drive time, and materials such as a $15 mattress cover if you used one.