How Much Do Movers Cost in Los Angeles?

A move within Los Angeles, or between nearby cities, is usually priced with an hourly rate for a crew and a truck. The hours normally include loading at the first address, the drive between addresses and unloading at the destination. Any trip fee, extra stop or added service should be listed in your written estimate.

That is why two moves with the same number of bedrooms can cost very different amounts. A second-floor walk-up with a long carry to the truck takes longer than a ground-floor apartment with parking at the door, even when the furniture is the same.

Our standard local crew is two movers with a truck. The rate is $129 per hour when you pay by cash, Zelle, Venmo or check, and it is written in your contract before moving day.

Every move has a 3-hour minimum. Wrapping furniture in moving blankets and standard disassembly and reassembly, such as bed frames and table legs, are included in the hourly rate. If your move needs a larger crew, a trip fee or extra services, your written estimate shows them before you book.

• Two movers and a truck: $129 per hour by cash, Zelle, Venmo or check
• 3-hour minimum for every move
• Included: blanket wrapping and standard furniture disassembly and reassembly
• Available 9 AM to 10 PM, seven days a week

The hourly rate does not change during the move; the number of hours does. These details most often add time to a Los Angeles move:

• Stairs, long hallways and a long walk between the door and the truck
• Waiting for an elevator, or a building that allows moves only during set hours
• No parking near the entrance, so every item is carried farther
• Boxes that are still being packed when the crew arrives
• Furniture that needs more than standard disassembly or does not fit through a door
• Heavy or fragile pieces, such as safes, marble tops and large TVs
• Extra stops, such as a storage unit or a second pickup address
• Distance and traffic between the two addresses

You cannot control traffic, but most of the other factors are in your hands. The useful work happens in the week before the move.

If you are not sure whether to do a job yourself, ask when you request your quote. Some tasks, such as packing a full kitchen, take an experienced crew less time than they take most people.

• Finish packing and close every box before the crew arrives
• Reserve the elevator and loading area at both buildings
• Find a place for the truck to park close to the entrance
• Measure large furniture and the narrowest doorway on its route
• Take heavy or breakable items out of dressers and cabinets
• Group boxes near the exit and keep a clear path through the home
• Keep pets, children and your essentials bag away from the walkway

California sets rules for household movers. Before your move, you should receive a written estimate with a not-to-exceed price: the most you can be charged unless you ask for additional services. If you add work on moving day, such as an extra stop or packing, it should be written in a change order that you sign before the extra work begins.

When you book at least three days ahead, the mover also gives you the state booklet Important Information for Persons Moving Household Goods, which explains your rights. Read the estimate and the contract together and ask about anything that is unclear, including the minimum hours, any trip fee and the payment terms.

The quickest route to a reliable number is a complete request: your date, both addresses with floors and elevator details, parking, a list of large items and an idea of how many boxes you have. Photos of oversized or fragile pieces help. We use those details to plan the crew and the time, then prepare your written estimate.