How much do movers cost in Philadelphia?
Understanding moving costs helps you budget accurately and avoid surprise charges. Philadelphia’s moving rates are competitive compared to other major East Coast cities, but prices fluctuate significantly based on timing, home size, and specific requirements.
Philadelphia Moving Cost Breakdown by Home Size
| Home Size | Average Time | Typical Cost Range | Crew Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio/1-Bedroom | 2-4 hours | $300-$600 | 2 movers |
| 2-Bedroom Apartment | 3-5 hours | $400-$800 | 2-3 movers |
| 3-Bedroom House | 5-8 hours | $800-$1,500 | 3-4 movers |
| 4-Bedroom House | 7-10 hours | $1,200-$2,200 | 4-5 movers |
| 5+ Bedroom House | 10-14 hours | $2,000-$3,500+ | 5-6 movers |
What factors affect moving costs in Philadelphia?
Several key variables determine your final moving bill:
1. Time and Labor
Hourly rates include the truck, fuel for local travel, equipment (dollies, straps, blankets), and professional crew. Most companies require a 2-3 hour minimum. Travel time to your first location may be charged at half-rate or full rate depending on the company.
2. Stairs and Building Access
Elevator buildings move faster than walk-ups. Each flight of stairs without an elevator typically adds $50-$150 to your total cost. Row homes with narrow staircases or buildings with parking restrictions significantly increase labor time.
3. Distance and Long Carries
If the moving truck cannot park within 75 feet of your entrance, expect long carry fees of $75-$200. Urban Philadelphia locations with limited parking or permit-only zones often face these charges.
4. Seasonality and Day of Week
Peak moving season (May through September) commands premium rates. Summer weekends can cost 20-30% more than winter weekdays. Month-end dates are most expensive due to high demand from lease turnovers.
What is the cheapest day to hire movers?
To maximize savings, consider these timing strategies:
- Book Tuesday or Wednesday – Lowest demand days with best availability
- Avoid month-end dates – The 28th-31st have 40% higher rates due to lease transitions
- Move in winter – November through March sees 25-30% lower rates than summer
- Choose morning starts – First appointments avoid delays from previous jobs
- Be flexible on dates – Companies may offer last-minute discounts for open slots
What are hidden moving costs to watch for?
Common surprise charges include:
- Travel time: 30-60 minutes charged from company location to your address
- Stair fees: $50-$150 per floor for walk-up buildings without elevators
- Long carry charges: $75-$200 when truck parks over 75 feet from entrance
- Bulky item fees: $50-$300 extra for pianos, safes, pool tables, or hot tubs
- Packing materials: $200-$500 for boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and specialty containers
- Fuel surcharges: 5-10% of total bill added by some companies
- Weekend/holiday premiums: 15-25% surcharge for Saturday, Sunday, or holiday moves
Protection tip: Always request a detailed written estimate that itemizes all potential charges. Reputable movers provide binding or not-to-exceed estimates for local moves.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving Costs
7 Ways to Reduce Your Philadelphia Moving Costs
- Declutter before moving – Reduce volume by 20-30% through donations and disposal
- Book weekday mid-month moves – Save 25-40% compared to weekend month-end dates
- Do your own packing – Professional packing adds $300-$800 to total costs
- Disassemble furniture yourself – Saves 1-2 hours of labor ($120-$360)
- Prepare before crew arrives – Everything packed and ready saves billable time
- Move during off-season – November-March rates can be 30% lower than summer
- Get multiple estimates – Compare at least 3 licensed movers for best rates
Long-Distance Moving Costs from Philadelphia
Interstate moves are priced differently than local hourly moves. Long-distance moving costs depend on weight (typically $0.50-$1.20 per pound) and distance traveled.
| Destination | Distance | 2-Bedroom Cost | 3-Bedroom Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia to Pittsburgh | 305 miles | $1,800-$3,200 | $2,800-$4,500 |
| Philadelphia to New York City | 95 miles | $1,200-$2,400 | $2,000-$3,500 |
| Philadelphia to Washington DC | 140 miles | $1,400-$2,600 | $2,200-$3,800 |
| Philadelphia to Florida | 1,000+ miles | $3,500-$6,000 | $5,500-$9,000 |
| Philadelphia to California | 2,700+ miles | $5,000-$8,500 | $7,500-$12,000 |
How to get an accurate moving estimate
Reliable estimates require detailed information. Provide movers with:
- Complete inventory of items being moved (room by room)
- Building details: floors, stairs, elevator availability, parking restrictions
- Special items: pianos, safes, artwork, antiques, exercise equipment
- Packing needs: full service, partial, or self-pack
- Access challenges: narrow doorways, tight turns, long walks from parking
- Timeline: flexible dates allow for better pricing options
In-home estimates (or video estimates) provide the most accurate quotes. Walk-through estimates allow movers to assess stairs, doorways, parking, and identify potential challenges that affect pricing.
Red Flags: When Moving Estimates Are Too Good to Be True
Beware of these warning signs that indicate unreliable or fraudulent movers:
- Quotes significantly lower than competitors (30%+ under market rates)
- No PA PUC license number or USDOT registration displayed
- Cash-only payment requirements or large upfront deposits (over 20%)
- No physical address or branded trucks
- Unwillingness to provide written estimates or contracts
- Estimates given without seeing inventory or asking detailed questions
- Poor online reviews or no verifiable customer history
Get Your Free Philadelphia Moving Estimate
Licensed, insured, and serving Greater Philadelphia since 2007
PA PUC A-8916211 | USDOT 2173383
Understanding moving insurance and valuation
All licensed movers must offer basic liability coverage at no additional charge, but this minimal protection typically covers only $0.60 per pound per item. A 50-pound television worth $800 would receive only $30 in compensation if damaged.
Full-value protection costs approximately 1-2% of your total shipment value but covers repair, replacement, or cash settlement at current market value. For moves with valuable or sentimental items, full-value protection provides essential peace of mind.
Philadelphia neighborhood moving considerations
Different Philadelphia neighborhoods present unique moving challenges that affect costs:
Center City and Old City
Narrow streets, limited parking, and permit requirements often add 30-60 minutes to move times. Most buildings require certificate of insurance and elevator reservations booked weeks in advance.
Main Line Suburbs
Larger homes with more volume increase costs, but easier access and parking typically reduce complications. Multi-level homes with basements and attics require more labor time.
University City
High-rise apartments, tight move-in windows, and frequent elevator sharing during peak student move-in (August-September) create scheduling challenges. Book well in advance.
South Philadelphia Row Homes
Narrow staircases, street parking limitations, and tight turns make moves more labor-intensive. Budget extra time for challenging access.
Final tips for a successful move
Beyond cost considerations, ensure a smooth moving experience by:
- Confirming all details in writing 48 hours before move day
- Taking photos of valuable items before the move
- Keeping important documents, medications, and valuables with you
- Having payment ready (cash, certified check, or approved credit cards)
- Doing a final walkthrough of both properties before departure
- Providing clear directions and parking information to your movers
Professional moving services provide efficiency, safety, and peace of mind that DIY moves cannot match. By understanding pricing structures and planning strategically, you can secure quality moving services at fair rates.
