Cost of Local Moving Services in Los Angeles

Moving to a bustling city like Los Angeles can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you’re moving to a new apartment in Santa Monica or relocating to a house in Silver Lake, understanding the cost of local moving services is a crucial part of the planning process.

In this guide, we will break down the average cost of local movers in Los Angeles, discuss factors that influence moving prices, and offer tips to help you find affordable, quality moving services.

Understanding the Average Cost of Local Movers in Los Angeles

In 2024, the average cost of local moving services in Los Angeles generally falls between $100 and $200 per hour for a team of two movers.

This hourly rate is the most common pricing model used by moving companies, although flat-rate fees and other arrangements are also available. The total cost of your move will depend on several variables, including the size of your move, the distance between locations, and the level of service you require.

Key Factors That Affect the Cost of Local Movers

Several factors play into the final cost of hiring local movers in Los Angeles. Understanding these factors will help you budget more accurately and ensure that you’re not caught off guard by hidden fees.

Size of Your Move

The larger the move, the more movers and trucks will be required. If you’re just moving a few boxes or a studio apartment, you can expect a lower rate since fewer resources are needed. For larger moves—such as a three-bedroom house—expect to pay more as you’ll need additional moving staff and possibly multiple trucks.

Time of Year

Timing can greatly impact the cost of your move. The peak moving season typically runs from May to September when demand for moving services is at its highest. If you can plan your move during the off-season, such as fall or winter, you may be able to take advantage of lower rates and better availability.

Distance Between Locations

While the term “local move” generally refers to a move within a 50-mile radius, the total distance can still affect pricing. Even though the move stays within Los Angeles, traveling long distances across the city (like moving from the west side to the east side) may result in higher costs due to increased travel time and fuel expenses.

Packing Services

If you need help with packing your belongings, many moving companies offer this as an added service. Packing services typically cost extra, and the total cost will depend on the volume of items being packed. Movers will charge based on the number of boxes and the amount of labor required to wrap and pack your possessions.

Specialty Items

If you have specialty items that require extra care, such as a piano, large furniture, or fragile art, expect additional charges. Movers may charge more for the specialized equipment and expertise needed to safely transport these items.

Insurance and Liability Coverage

Local moving companies in Los Angeles will usually offer a basic liability option, but you may want to purchase additional insurance to protect your belongings. This adds to the total cost of your move, but it can provide peace of mind if anything gets damaged or lost during the transition.

Breakdown of Typical Moving Costs

To give you a better idea of what to expect, here’s a general breakdown of what you might pay based on the size of your move:

Small Move

For a small move, the process is typically quick and requires fewer resources. The average hourly rate for two movers and a truck will likely range from $100 to $150 per hour. A typical 2-4 hour move could cost between $300 and $600, depending on how much packing is needed.

Medium Move

A medium-sized move generally requires more time and effort. You’ll likely need a team of three movers and a larger truck, pushing the average hourly rate to around $130 to $200 per hour. For a 4-6 hour move, expect to pay anywhere from $520 to $1,200.

Large Move

For large homes with multiple rooms of furniture, appliances, and personal items, a team of four movers or more will likely be required. The hourly rate may also rise depending on the complexity of the move. Expect to pay between $150 and $250 per hour. A typical move can last 6-8 hours, leading to a total cost ranging from $1,200 to $2,000 or more.

Long-Distance Within LA

While still classified as a local move, relocating from one part of Los Angeles to another—especially when crossing large distances like from the Westside to the Valley—may cost more. Expect to pay for travel time in addition to the hourly rates. Prices for long-distance moves within Los Angeles can reach $1,500 or higher, depending on the specifics of the move.

How to Save on Moving Costs

While moving can be expensive, there are several strategies you can use to minimize the cost of local movers in Los Angeles:

Book Early

Booking your moving company several weeks or even months in advance will help secure a lower rate. Moving companies often charge more for last-minute bookings, especially during peak season. Planning can save you a significant amount of money.

Declutter Before Your Move

The fewer items you have to move, the less it will cost. Before the movers arrive, go through your belongings and donate or sell items you no longer need. This not only reduces the time it will take to pack and transport your items, but it can also lower the overall cost.

Pack Yourself

If you’re willing to put in the time and effort, packing your belongings yourself can save you a lot of money. While it’s tempting to leave everything to the professionals, packing your items will drastically reduce the time the movers need to spend, lowering your total bill.

Avoid Peak Moving Seasons

If possible, avoid scheduling your move during the summer months or over holidays when demand is highest. Moving during weekdays, especially in the middle of the month, can also help you secure a better rate as most people tend to move on weekends.

Get Multiple Quotes

Before choosing a moving company, always ask for estimates from multiple providers. This gives you a clearer idea of the price range and helps you compare services. Keep in mind that the lowest quote may not always be the best value if it comes with hidden fees or poor customer reviews.

Finding the Right Movers for Your Move

The cost of local moving services in Los Angeles can vary depending on a variety of factors, but understanding the average cost of local movers and what influences those prices will help you make informed decisions.

Whether you’re moving across town or just down the street, getting the right services for your budget is key.