How long does a local move take?
Quick Answer
A local move typically takes 3 to 5 hours for a 1-bedroom, 5 to 7 hours for a 2-bedroom, and 7 to 10 hours for a 3-bedroom. This includes loading, driving, and unloading. Add 2 to 3 hours if movers are packing for you.
Local move duration depends on four main factors: home size, amount of stuff, access difficulty, and driving distance between homes.
Typical timelines by home size: Studio - 2 to 3 hours. 1-bedroom - 3 to 5 hours. 2-bedroom - 5 to 7 hours. 3-bedroom - 7 to 10 hours. 4+ bedroom - 10 to 14 hours (may require two trips or two trucks).
These estimates assume: a 2-3 person crew for studios and 1-bedrooms, 3-4 person crew for 2-3 bedrooms, standard access (no more than 1 flight of stairs, truck within 75 feet), and a driving distance under 30 minutes between homes.
Factors that add time: stairs or no elevator (add 30-60 minutes per flight), long carry from truck to door (add 15-30 minutes), elevator reservations with time limits, heavy or bulky items (piano, safe, hot tub), packing services (add 2-3 hours for a 2-bedroom), and driving distance over 30 minutes.
Since local movers charge by the hour ($120-$200/hour for a 2-person crew), every extra hour directly impacts your bill. To speed up the move: have everything packed and ready before the crew arrives, disassemble beds and tables the night before, clear a path from each room to the front door, and reserve elevator time if applicable.