How much do packing services cost?
How much do packing services cost?
The average cost for packing pro is $50 per hour. Hiring a packer to help you prep for moving or storage, you will likely spend between $50 and $80 per hour. The price of packing can vary greatly by region (and even by zip code).
$280 – $1,000 cost to pack a 2-bedroom home
$1,000 – $2,500 Cost to pack a 3 or 4 bedroom home
The average cost for packing pro is $50 per hour. Hiring a packer to help you prep for moving or storage, you will likely spend between $50 and $80 per hour. The price of packing can vary greatly by region (and even by zip code).
Packing / Unpacking Services Cost
Many people don't take the time to think about packing, but the truth is packing and unpacking can take up more time and energy than the actual act of moving itself.
The good news is most quality moving companies also offer professional packing services in addition to loading, transporting, and unloading your items.
Moving companies charge $50 to $80 per hour for packing services. Packing a 2-bedroom home costs $280 to $1,000, while packing a 3- or 4-bedroom home costs $1,000 to $2,500.
| Service | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Packing per hour | $50 – $80 |
| 2-bedroom home | $280 – $1,000 |
| 3- or 4-bedroom home | $1,000 – $2,500 |
Because packing services can also include things like furniture assembly and disassembly and specialized packing for delicate and valuable items, the prices can vary widely. Here is a general guide about factors that influence the cost of packing services from a professional moving company in your area.
Boxes
Most moving companies will provide boxes but will charge you a set rate that also includes the tape and other packing materials. Extra materials include packing paper to protect small breakable items like glasses and other kitchenware, or pad-and-prep packing that secures items like the television and mirrors from movement and damage.
The best way to negotiate the total price for a per-box style packing service is to provide the moving company with a full inventory of everything that needs to be packed so they can give you an upfront estimate.
Per-Hour Rates
Whether you are packing up in Seattle or moving out of Brooklyn, NY, the best way to get an idea of how much packing services are going to cost is to get an hourly rate quote. This rate should either include all the packing supplies needed, including boxes, or be for labor alone with other expenses added separately.
Many moving companies will drop the hourly rate a bit per worker if more than one worker is used to pack your belongings. For example, instead of paying $30 per hour for one worker to pack your items you pay $50 per hour for two, which should double the speed at which the project is completed and also save you a bit of money.
By Home Size
Many moving companies charge a set rate based on the home size for either moving, packing, or both services combined. For example, a studio apartment would have an estimated rate based on the typical quantity of furniture and other items it contains, while a four-bedroom house would have another, much higher rate.
Ask about all-inclusive home size package deals if you're looking to combine moving and packing services.
Stand-Alone Packing Services
If you are planning a long distance move and doing the driving yourself, you might want to hire a professional moving company to come in and pack your items for security and order. Old City Movers in Philadelphia, for example, will help you pack up or unpack, assemble furniture and generally get you moved in or ready to ship out as a stand-alone service separate from moving.
They also specialize in art moves and boutique items that need care that only professionals can provide and you can have them over just to do packing on these special items.