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Should You Hire Movers?

Skylar Booth

May 28, 2026
A cluttered room filled with various cardboard boxes of different sizes. Some boxes are stacked, while others are open, revealing items inside. A rolled-up rug is leaning against one of the boxes, and a small potted plant is visible among the boxes. There are also several gray plates stacked on the floor. The background features a bed with a gray and white blanket, adding to the sense of a recently moved-in space. Movers.

Moving sounds easy in theory.

Then suddenly you’re carrying a couch down three flights of stairs, bribing your friends with pizza, realizing you underestimated how many boxes you own, and questioning every life decision that led you here.

A lot of renters try to avoid hiring movers because they think it’ll save money. And sometimes it can. But depending on your situation, DIY moving can end up costing more time, stress, and even money than people expect. Here’s what renters should actually consider before deciding whether to hire movers or do it themselves.

The Biggest Benefit? Saving Yourself the Stress

Most people underestimate how exhausting moving day actually is.

It’s not just the heavy lifting. It’s coordinating timelines, getting transportation, packing things safely, carrying furniture through tight hallways, and trying not to completely lose your mind halfway through the process.

Professional movers do this every single day. They know how to move faster, safer, and more efficiently than the average person trying to borrow a truck for the weekend. And honestly? Sometimes paying for convenience is worth it.

Especially if:

  • You’re moving long distance
  • You have large furniture
  • You’re moving alone
  • You’re on a tight timeline
  • You live in a walk-up building (sending thoughts and prayers)

DIY Moving Isn’t Always as Cheap as It Seems

A lot of renters immediately assume moving themselves will save money.

But once you factor everything in, the numbers can get surprisingly close.

Truck rentals, gas, moving supplies, equipment, parking, last-minute storage, and the inevitable “we need another trip” situation all add up quickly. And that’s before you factor in your time and energy.

For context, the average cost of local movers for a one-bedroom apartment typically falls somewhere between $400–$1500, depending on the city, distance, stairs, and how much stuff you have. Larger apartments or long-distance moves can increase from there.

Sometimes the difference in price is smaller than people expect, especially when you consider the convenience factor.

Movers Can Actually Help Protect Your Stuff

This is the part people don’t think about until something breaks.

Professional movers know how to move large furniture, fragile items, TVs, mirrors, mattresses, and oddly-shaped things without destroying them (or your walls).

Meanwhile, one bad turn in a stairwell can suddenly turn your “budget-friendly move” into a very expensive problem. A good moving company helps reduce that risk significantly, which in return saves you big. 

Timing Matters More Than Most Renters Realize

If you’re moving during peak season, especially summer, prices can increase quickly and availability disappears fast. The earlier you book movers, the more flexibility and pricing options you’ll usually have.

And if you’re apartment hunting at the same time, coordinating your move dates early can make the entire process way smoother.

So… Are Movers Really Worth It?

For a lot of renters, yes. Not because moving yourself is impossible, but because movers can save you:

  • time
  • stress
  • physical exhaustion
  • multiple trips
  • potential damage costs

The right moving setup really depends on your budget, timeline, distance, and how much help you realistically have. Some people genuinely prefer the DIY route. Others would rather never carry a couch again after one bad experience. Both are valid!

Exclusive Moving Discounts through Smart City Partners

If you are planning a move, we also partner with several trusted moving companies to help make the process easier (and a little cheaper).

Bellhop

Get 5% off your move with code SC5
Available in: Atlanta, Austin, Dallas, Chicago, Denver, Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio

College Hunks

Get $25 off moving services and 10% off moving supplies, plus a free quote through our link.
Available in: Atlanta, Austin, Dallas, Chicago, Denver, Fort Worth, Houston, & San Antonio

The Move Place

Get $10 off the hourly rate with our partner link.
Available in: Dallas & Fort Worth

Local Moving, LLC

Get $25 off your move with one of Denver’s top-rated local movers.
Available in: Denver

Veterans Moving America

Get 10% off by selecting “Referral – Smart City Locating” from the dropdown menu. 

Available in: Dallas & Fort Worth

Limestone Moving

Get $25 off your move with locally owned moving services offering packing, full-service moves, and labor-only options.
Available in: Austin

Flex Moving

If you are standing your ground on a DIY move, we have a great resource for you! Flex Moving also offers FlexHaul, a budget-friendly DIY option where they handle the transport and you do the loading, perfect for renters who want to save on labor costs.

Available in: Atlanta, Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, Nashville, & San Antonio

Want Help Getting Your Move Started?

If you’re still trying to find the perfect place our agents can help guide you through the process and connect you with resources that make your move easier. Moving is stressful enough already, your apartment search shouldn’t be too.

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