How Much Do Movers Cost for a 2-Bedroom Apartment?

The average cost of hiring movers for a 2-bedroom apartment typically starts from $300 – $900 for a local move. The final price depends on factors like how far you’re moving, how much stuff you have, and whether you need extra services like furniture disassembly.

Usually, larger and further moves often involve more furniture, packing materials, and extra services, which is why they cost more. For example, moving a 1-room apartment could cost anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000, whereas moving from an apartment to a house could easily exceed $4,000.

If you’re planning to move a 2-bedroom apartment and want a smoother, budget-friendly experience, Stack Moves is here to help. We offer affordable moving bin rentals designed to cut down on stress and waste, while keeping your belongings protected. Contact us today to get a personalized quote! 

In this blog, we will give you a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for a 2-bedroom apartment move in 2025. We will also talk about factors affecting the cost and tips for saving money. 

Average Cost of Moving – 2 Bedroom Apartment

When planning a move to a 2-bedroom apartment, it is helpful to have an idea of the average moving costs. Whether you’re considering a local move within the same city or a long-distance move across the country, knowing what to expect can help you make informed decisions.

Local Moves

Local moves, typically within the same city or nearby areas, are usually charged by the hour. Most local moving companies charge based on the time it takes to complete the move, including loading, transportation, and unloading.

The hourly rate for hiring professional movers can range from $80 to $150 per hour, depending on the moving company, the number of movers required, and the time of year. For a 2-bedroom apartment, the duration of the move typically ranges from 4 to 6 hours, depending on the complexity and the distance within the city. The overall cost of moving your apartment, movers and all, should be around $$800-$2,500 for a local move.

Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, costs are generally calculated based on the distance and the weight of your belongings. These moves often involve crossing state lines or moving to a different region.

Long-distance moving costs can vary significantly, with typical charges ranging from $0.50 to $1 per pound and $1 to $5 per mile or kilometer. The further the distance, the higher the cost.

Therefore, making a two-bedroom apartment move that covers a long distance can cost anywhere from $2,500 to $6,000 or more. The exact cost depends on the distance, weight, and any additional services required, such as packing supplies or storage units.

What Factors Are Influencing Moving Costs?

When planning a move, several factors influence the overall cost. These factors include the distance of the move, the number of boxes, and the time of the move. Whether you’re moving a 2-bedroom apartment locally or across the country, these factors play a significant role in determining how much you’ll pay.

Distance of the Move

The distance between your current location and your new home is one of the top factors affecting moving costs. For example, local moves are usually charged by the hour, while long-distance moves are calculated based on the distance and the weight of your belongings. As a result, long-distance moves tend to be more expensive due to the added mileage and transportation costs.

Size and Weight of the Move

The size and weight of your belongings directly impact the cost of hiring movers, as movers often charge based on the total weight of your belongings, especially for long-distance moves. The more items you have, and the heavier they are, the higher the moving costs will be.

For example, you might only need to pack your personal belongings and a few furniture items in a one-bedroom apartment. However, for a 2-bedroom apartment, you would have more furniture, appliances, and personal belongings. The weight and volume of these items will contribute to the overall cost, making it higher than what you would spend on a one-bedroom apartment.

Moving Boxes

The type and quantity of moving boxes you use can also affect your moving costs. For example, you can opt for standard cardboard boxes that are more common and affordable. You can get these moving boxes for cheap from platforms like Amazon, U-Haul, and Facebook Marketplace. Sometimes, you can even get them for free from local stores. On the other hand, uniform plastic bins and specialty boxes for items like artwork or dishes can be more expensive. Thus, adding to the overall cost.

However, we recommend that you rent plastic moving bins from Stack Moves. Renting is always a preferred, cost-effective option, as you do not need to worry about disposal. Instead, when you rent from Stack Moves, we deliver these plastic bins to your home and pick them up when you are done. Furthermore, plastic bins are more durable and protect your belongings better during a move.

Additional Services

Additional services, such as packing and unpacking, can also increase your moving costs. Many professional moving companies offer packing services, which can save you time but come at an extra cost. And, if you have specialty items like pianos, antiques, or artwork, expect to pay more for the careful handling and extra care these items require.

Time of the Move

The timing of your move can also affect the cost, with certain times of the year or week being more expensive than others. For example, moving during peak season, typically in the summer, can be more expensive due to higher demand, while off-peak moves, during fall or winter, often come with discounted rates.

Additionally, weekends are the most popular moving days, leading to higher costs. However, moving during the week can save you money due to lower demand.

Type of Move

The type of move you choose also influences the cost. For example, a full-service move includes packing, loading, transporting, and unpacking, which is the most convenient but also the most expensive option. Often, full-service movers would offer insurance for the safety of your items. This means that if they break anything, the mover will pay or reimburse you.

On the other hand, a self-service move allows you to pack and load your belongings, and the moving company transports them. This option offers a balance between cost and convenience.

For those looking to save money, a DIY move, in which you rent a moving truck and handle the entire process yourself, is the most cost-effective option. But keep in mind that it requires the most effort.

Hidden Costs to Consider

When planning a move, it’s easy to focus on the obvious expenses like hiring movers and renting a truck. However, several hidden costs can catch you off guard if you’re not prepared.

One such expense is packing materials and labor. While many people budget for moving services, they often overlook the cost of packing materials and labor. Items like packing paper, bubble wrap, and sturdy boxes are essential for protecting your belongings during the move. These materials can add up quickly, especially if you have a lot of fragile or valuable items. Additionally, if you opt for professional packing services, the cost of labor will be an additional expense. This service can save you time, but it will increase your overall moving costs.

Another considerable hidden cost is storage fees. If your new home isn’t ready right away or you need to downsize, you may need a place to store some of your belongings temporarily, leading to storage fees. Renting a storage unit comes with a monthly fee, which can vary based on the size of the unit and the duration of storage. Another option is portable storage units, which are convenient but may also come with delivery and pickup charges.

Furthermore, you may need to account for accessorial charges, as moving companies often charge extra fees for certain services, known as accessorial charges. For example, if movers have to navigate stairs, elevators, or long distances between your home and the moving truck, you might be charged additional fees. These charges can increase your total moving costs, especially in apartment buildings with limited access.

Cleaning services are another hidden cost to consider. After you’ve moved out, you’ll likely need to clean your old home, especially if you’re renting and want to ensure you get your security deposit back. Typically, hiring a professional cleaning service can ensure that the space is thoroughly cleaned. But it comes at a cost, which is why you should account for it appropriately. The price will depend on the size of your home and the level of cleaning required.

Ways to Save Money on Moving

Moving can be expensive, but with careful planning and strategic decisions, you can reduce your moving costs. Here are some effective ways to save money on your next move:

Declutter Before the Move

One of the most effective ways to save money on moving is by decluttering your home before you pack. The more items you move, the more it will cost, especially when hiring professional movers. By reducing the load, you can lower both packing and transportation costs.

We recommend selling items you no longer need through online marketplaces or a garage sale. Furthermore, you should also donate gently used items to charity to lighten your load. This way, you are reducing the size and weight of your move, which could reduce the cost.

Hire a Moving Company

Hiring a professional moving company might seem like a significant expense, but it can actually save you money in the long run. Professional movers have the experience and equipment needed to handle your belongings safely and efficiently. This reduces the risk of damage and the associated costs of repairs or replacements. Plus, their expertise in the moving process can save you time and stress.

Packing Yourself

Another way to save money is by packing your own belongings instead of paying for professional packing services. Packing yourself allows you to control how your items are packed, ensuring that delicate or valuable items receive the care they need. It also eliminates the cost of labor associated with professional packing services.

To pack yourself, use sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, and packing paper to protect your items. Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs in to make unpacking easier. Then, start packing early to avoid last-minute stress and mistakes.

Flexible Scheduling

Being flexible with your moving dates can also help you save money. For example, moving during the off-peak season, such as in the fall or winter, can result in lower moving costs due to reduced demand. Weekdays are also typically less expensive than weekends.

If your move dates are flexible, you may be able to negotiate a better rate with your moving company. Movers may offer discounts for filling gaps in their schedule or moving during less busy times.

Why You Should Hire Professional Movers?

Hiring professional movers for your 2-bedroom apartment move can make the process smoother, more efficient, and less stressful.

One of the biggest benefits of hiring professional movers is how much time and hassle they save you. Professional movers are experienced in packing and moving quickly and efficiently. They can pack up a two-bedroom apartment in a fraction of the time it would take you, allowing you to focus on other important aspects of the move. Likewise, if you’re moving for work or have a tight schedule, professional movers can help minimize downtime by handling the logistics and heavy lifting.

Another advantage is that they offer packing services, often considered the most time-consuming and stressful part of any move. These packing services ensure your belongings are packed safely and securely. They use high-quality packing supplies and have the expertise to handle fragile and valuable items with care. Moreover, many moving companies provide packing supplies as part of their service, saving you the hassle of purchasing boxes, bubble wrap, and other materials separately.

And while hiring professionals might seem like an expensive option, it can actually help you avoid hidden costs. For example, opting for DIY moves often comes with hidden costs, such as truck rental fees, fuel charges, and potential damage to your belongings. But professional movers provide a clear estimate upfront, helping you budget accurately. Furthermore, professional moving companies offer insurance options that protect your belongings during the move. This can save you money in the event of any damage or loss.

Another underrated benefit of hiring movers is how much stress it takes off your plate. By hiring professional movers, you can delegate the heavy lifting and logistics, allowing you to focus on settling into your new home. Their expertise ensures that the moving process goes smoothly, reducing your stress levels.

Finally, professional movers help keep the entire process more organized from start to finish. Movers have a systematic approach to packing, loading, and unloading, which helps keep everything organized. This ensures that your items are delivered to the correct rooms in your new home, making unpacking much easier. Additionally, many professional moving companies offer inventory management services, tracking each item from your old home to your new one. This reduces the risk of lost or misplaced items during the move.

Best Box Sizes and Types for a Move

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing the best boxes for a move; it really depends on what you’re packing, how far you’re moving, and how much stuff you have. That said, knowing the right box sizes and materials for different items can make your move more organized, efficient, and less stressful.

Small boxes (1.5–2.0 cu. ft.) are perfect for heavy or compact items like books, canned goods, tools, or bathroom supplies. These are easy to carry and help prevent overpacking, so no one gets hurt. Medium boxes (3.0–4.0 cu. ft.) are the main go-tos for most moves. Use them for kitchenware, shoes, toys, or electronics—anything not too heavy but also not super delicate.

Large boxes (4.5–6.0 cu. ft.) are best for lightweight, bulky items like bedding, pillows, and comforters. Just be careful not to fill them with heavy stuff, or they’ll become hard to lift. Specialty boxes like wardrobe boxes, TV boxes, or dish packs with dividers are great for protecting valuables or oddly shaped items.

When it comes to box materials, most people default to cardboard, but it might not always be the best option. Double-walled boxes offer more protection and are better for long-distance moves or storage. Used boxes can save money, but they’re often weakened from previous use and may collapse under pressure or attract pests if not cleaned.

More people are switching to plastic moving bins, and for good reasons. These moving boxes are durable, reusable, water-resistant, crush-proof, and can stack on top of each other easily. If you’re looking for the simplest, cleanest way to pack, plastic bins are hands-down the best box alternative.

You can get affordable plastic bins for rent from moving companies like Stack Moves. You can also get moving boxes from retailers like Home Depot and Walmart, or online websites like Amazon and U-Haul. If you’re trying to save costs, you can often find free boxes at local grocery stores, liquor stores, or through online community boards like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace.  

How Many Boxes Do I Need To Move?

It depends on several factors, but the biggest one is how much stuff you’re moving. Your home size, number of rooms, and lifestyle (minimalist or maximalist) all affect how many boxes you’ll need.

That’s why we recommend using our free moving box calculator to get a personalized estimate—it’s quick, accurate, and helps you plan without the guesswork.

It’s important for you to get this right because the right number of boxes saves time, reduces waste, and keeps you from overpacking or running out halfway through. In summary, you’ll pack more efficiently and avoid last-minute store runs, which will make your moving day a lot smoother.

Need Help With Moving?

Based on several factors, such as the distance of the move, the size and weight of your belongings, and additional services, the average moving costs for a 2-bedroom apartment can change drastically. There is also a need to highlight the differences between local and long-distance moves and how they can affect your overall moving costs. However, with the knowledge of these costs, you can budget more effectively.

We also explored various strategies for saving money on your move, including decluttering, packing yourself, and choosing off-peak moving dates. It is also important to select the right types and sizes of boxes for your move. This ensures your belongings are packed securely and efficiently. 

If you are ready to start planning your move, don’t hesitate to contact us at Stack Moves to get your moving bins for rent. Our team is readily available to assist you every step of the way for a stress-free moving process.

Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve answered your most common questions about the cost of moving a 2-bedroom apartment to help you plan smarter and budget with confidence.

What Do Most Movers Charge per Hour?

Most movers charge between $80 and $150 per hour for a team of two movers and a truck. Depending on your location, the size of your move, and the time of year, this could be more or less. This rate usually includes basic labor, transportation, and equipment, but additional services like packing, long carry fees, or heavy item handling may raise the total cost.

How Long Does It Take to Move a 2-Bedroom Apartment?

A typical 2-bedroom apartment move can take 4 to 6 hours for a local move with professional movers. The exact timing depends on factors like distance to the truck, number of stairs, amount of stuff, and how well-prepared your items are for loading.

What Is the Cheapest Way to Move Apartments?

The cheapest way to move apartments is usually to do it yourself (DIY). This means renting a truck, sourcing free boxes, and asking friends to help. But, a more balanced, low-cost option is using plastic moving bins and partial moving services, where professionals handle just the loading and transport while you manage the packing.

What’s a Realistic Moving Budget for a 2-Bedroom Home?

A realistic budget for moving a 2-bedroom home is $1,000 to $3,000 for a local move, and $2,500 to $6,000 or more for long-distance. Your final cost will depend on distance, services needed, how much you’re moving, and the time of year.