Is Hiring Labor-Only Movers the Best Option for Your DIY Move?

Moving can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With some planning and the right help, you can make the process smoother. More people are turning to DIY moves, and many are hiring labor-only movers to assist. Is this the right choice for you? In this article, we’ll go over the pros and cons of labor-only movers to help you make the best decision for your move.

What Are Labor-Only Movers?

Labor-only movers are professionals you hire to help with the physical work of moving. They assist with tasks like heavy lifting, packing, and loading/unloading, but don’t provide transportation. If you already have a truck or want more control over your move, labor-only movers can be a good option. They charge based on the hours they work, or sometimes with a flat fee, which allows you to only pay for the help you need.

Why Hire Labor-Only Movers?

1. Save Money
Labor-only movers are often much cheaper than full-service moving companies. Traditional movers typically charge $100–$200 per hour, including transportation. Labor-only services can save you up to 50% on your move, making it a great option for local moves where you only need help with heavy furniture.

2. Flexible Scheduling
Labor-only movers usually offer more flexibility with when they can help. You can schedule them for evenings or weekends, which can help reduce the stress of fitting a move into your busy life.

3. Tailored Help
You can customize the assistance you need. Whether it’s lifting a bulky sofa or packing up your garage, you only pay for the tasks that matter to you. This way, you avoid spending money on services you don’t need.

Downsides of Labor-Only Movers

1. Limited Services
Labor-only movers only do the physical work. If you need a truck, packing supplies, or other services, you’ll have to arrange those separately. Truck rentals can cost an extra $30–$60 per day, and packing materials could add $100–$300, which could take away from the initial savings.

2. No Insurance
Unlike traditional moving companies, labor-only movers often don’t include insurance. This means if something gets damaged during your move, you may be responsible for replacing it. If you have fragile or valuable items, this might not be the best option for you.

3. Varying Experience
The skill level of labor-only movers can vary. While some may be experienced, others might not have the same expertise. To avoid any issues, be sure to check reviews and ask about the movers’ experience before hiring them.

Who Should Hire Labor-Only Movers?

1. Budget-Conscious Movers
If you’re looking to save money and are comfortable handling some parts of the move, labor-only movers can be a great choice. It’s ideal for local moves where you can take care of transportation on your own.

2. People with Heavy or Bulky Items
If you’re moving large, awkward, or heavy items—like a refrigerator or a sectional sofa—labor-only movers can make things much easier and reduce the risk of injury.

3. DIY Enthusiasts
If you want to stay in control of the move but just need help with the heavy lifting, labor-only movers are perfect. They’ll assist with the tough tasks while you handle the rest.

Who Should Avoid Labor-Only Movers?

1. Those Needing Full-Service Support
If you need a truck, packing, and complete moving assistance, labor-only movers won’t be enough. In these cases, a full-service moving company is a better option.

2. Movers with Valuable Items
If you’re moving fragile or high-value items, it’s worth paying extra for a moving company that provides insurance. This can give you peace of mind knowing your belongings are protected during the move.

3. First-Time Movers
If this is your first time moving, you might find it overwhelming. A full-service moving company can handle the whole process and offer more guidance, making the experience less stressful.

Tips for Hiring Labor-Only Movers

1. Do Your Research
Check reviews and ratings for any labor-only movers you’re considering. Look for consistent feedback about their reliability and professionalism.

2. Be Clear About Your Needs
Make sure to explain exactly what you need help with—whether it’s lifting heavy items, packing, or navigating stairs. The more details you provide, the better prepared the movers will be.

3. Ask About Equipment
Confirm that the movers have the right equipment, like dollies, moving blankets, and straps. This ensures your belongings will be moved safely and without damage.


When choosing whether to hire labor-only movers, think about your budget, how much help you need, and the complexity of your move. If you want to save money, need flexible scheduling, and prefer customized help, labor-only movers can be a great fit. But if you need a full-service solution, or have valuable items to move, a traditional moving company might be the better choice.

The key to a successful move is good planning. Whether you go with labor-only movers or hire a full-service team, being organized and prepared will make the process much easier.

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