The Real Cost of a DIY Move vs. Hiring a Professional Moving Company

At first glance, moving yourself might seem like the cheaper option. You rent a truck, grab some boxes, ask a few friends to help, and call it a day. But the truth is, the cost of a DIY move can add up quickly — not just in dollars, but in time, effort, and stress.

At A2B Moving & Delivery, we’ve worked with plenty of clients who thought they’d save money by doing it themselves, only to discover it cost them more in the long run. Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help you decide what’s right for your move.

1. Rental Truck and Equipment Fees

DIY Move:

• Rental truck (based on size and distance): $100–$500+

• Mileage and fuel: $50–$150

• Equipment (dollies, moving blankets, straps): $30–$100

• Insurance add-ons: $20–$100

Professional Movers:

• Moving truck and all equipment included

• Fuel and mileage covered

• Insurance and protection options provided

The Difference:
By the time you add in truck extras and fuel, the gap between DIY and professional costs starts to close.

2. Packing Materials

DIY Move:

• Boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and padding: $100–$300

• Risk of damage if improperly packed

Professional Movers:

• Many offer full-service packing

• Use of high-quality materials and proper techniques to protect items

The Difference:
Professionals know how to pack efficiently, reduce box count, and minimize breakage. DIY movers often overpay on materials or skimp and pay the price with damaged items.

3. Time and Labor

DIY Move:

• Days or weeks of planning, packing, and heavy lifting

• Coordinating helpers and keeping them motivated

• Long, exhausting moving day with risk of injury

Professional Movers:

• A trained team completes the job in hours

• You don’t lift a finger — or your back

The Difference:
Your time is valuable. A professional crew gets the job done faster, safer, and with far less stress.

4. Risk of Damage or Injury

DIY Move:

• Damaged furniture due to improper lifting or loading

• Potential injury from lifting heavy items

• No coverage if something breaks

Professional Movers:

• Insured and trained to handle all types of items

• Tools and techniques to prevent damage

• Coverage options for extra peace of mind

The Difference:
One dropped TV or injured back can make a “budget move” very expensive.

5. Stress and Peace of Mind

DIY Move:

• You’re managing every detail, from logistics to labor

• Easily becomes overwhelming, especially with family or work obligations

Professional Movers:

• Everything is handled for you, start to finish

• Clear communication, reliability, and accountability

The Difference:
You can focus on your new home, not the headaches of moving.

So, What’s the Real Cost?

In many cases, the actual savings of a DIY move are minimal when you factor in all the extra costs and the personal toll it takes. On the other hand, hiring professionals ensures a smooth, safe, and efficient experience — and that’s worth more than most people realize.

Thinking About Your Next Move?

A2B Moving & Delivery offers reliable service, honest pricing, and a team that truly cares about your experience. Let us do the heavy lifting so you can focus on settling into your new home.

Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote.