When it comes to moving, the term “full-service” means exactly what it sounds like—a moving company that handles everything from start to finish. Instead of just loading and transporting your belongings, a full-service residential moving company takes care of packing, disassembly, loading, delivery, unpacking, and even cleanup. It’s designed to make your move as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Many homeowners choose full-service movers because moving is overwhelming, time-consuming, and physically demanding. Whether you’re juggling work, family, or just don’t want to deal with the hassle, full-service movers can be a smart investment. They offer convenience, efficiency, and peace of mind that your belongings are in professional hands.
What Is a Full-Service Residential Moving Company?
A full-service residential moving company is exactly what busy homeowners dream of during a move. It’s a moving company that takes care of every aspect of your relocation—from carefully packing up your home to unloading and setting up your belongings at your new place. You won’t have to lift a finger, worry about packing supplies, or stress over logistics. It’s all handled by professionals trained to move your items safely and efficiently.
How Full-Service Differs From Standard Movers
Unlike standard or self-pack moving companies (where you’re responsible for packing and sometimes even loading), full-service movers do it all. Here’s how they stand out:
- Standard movers: Typically handle just the transportation and loading/unloading of items you’ve packed yourself.
- Self-pack moves: You handle all packing, and sometimes even the heavy lifting. Movers just drive the truck.
- Full-service movers: Include packing, disassembly of furniture, loading, transport, unloading, unpacking, and cleanup.
What Services Are Included in a Full-Service Residential Move?
A full-service residential move is designed to take the heavy lifting—and all the details—off your plate. From the moment the movers arrive to the final box being unpacked, every step is handled by professionals. Here’s what you can expect when you hire a full-service moving company.
Packing of All Household Items
The team will bring all packing materials and handle packing for both fragile and non-fragile items. Whether it’s wrapping your glassware with care or boxing up books, everything is packed securely to prevent damage during transit.
Loading and Unloading
Once packed, movers will load your belongings onto the truck with precision, using straps and padding to protect furniture and valuables. At your new home, they’ll carefully unload everything and place items where you want them.
Disassembly and Reassembly of Furniture
Bulky or complex furniture like beds, dining tables, and entertainment centers will be disassembled for safe transport and reassembled at your new place—saving you time and effort.
Appliance Handling
Full-service movers can assist with disconnecting, transporting, and reconnecting appliances like washers, dryers, and refrigerators (just confirm what’s included when booking).
Transportation (Local or Long-Distance)
Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, your belongings are safely transported to your new address. Full-service movers handle all logistics and planning.
Unpacking at the Destination
When everything arrives, the team will unpack your boxes, set up furniture, and place items as directed. You can focus on settling in without the chaos of opening dozens of boxes.
Removal of Packing Materials
You won’t be left with a mountain of boxes and packing paper. Full-service movers haul away used materials and clean up, leaving your space neat and ready to enjoy.
Optional Add-Ons
Depending on your needs, many companies offer extras like:
- White-glove service for high-value or delicate items
- Custom crating for artwork, antiques, or sensitive electronics
Every service is aimed at making your move smoother, safer, and far less stressful. It’s convenience from start to finish.
Do Full-Service Movers Provide Packing Materials?
One of the best things about hiring full-service movers is that you don’t have to worry about gathering packing supplies yourself. They come equipped with everything needed to protect your belongings during the move. This means you can skip the trips to the store for boxes, bubble wrap, and tape!
What’s Typically Included
Most full-service moving companies bring high-quality packing materials that are suited for a wide range of household items. These usually include:
- Sturdy boxes in various sizes
- Bubble wrap and packing paper for delicate and fragile items
- Packing tape and labels for sealing and organizing
- Furniture blankets and padding to protect larger pieces from scratches and dents
- Wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes
These materials are part of the service and are typically included in the price of a full-service move.
When Extra Charges Might Apply
While standard supplies are included, extra charges can come into play for specialty materials. Here are a few examples:
- Custom crating for valuable artwork, antiques, or sensitive electronics
- Specialty boxes for items like large mirrors, TVs, or chandeliers
- Climate-controlled packing materials if you’re moving sensitive goods that require extra protection
It’s always a good idea to ask your mover upfront about what’s included and where additional fees might pop up. That way, you can plan your budget and avoid surprises. The right materials make all the difference in keeping your belongings safe!
Is Storage Included With Full-Service Movers?
A great bonus of choosing full-service movers is that many companies offer storage solutions as part of their services. This can be a lifesaver if your new home isn’t quite ready or you need time to figure out where everything will go. Storage options are designed to add flexibility and peace of mind during what can be a stressful transition.
Short-Term and Long-Term Storage Options
Most full-service movers provide both short-term storage (a few days or weeks) and long-term storage (several months or more). Your items are typically stored in a secure, climate-controlled facility, keeping everything safe until you’re ready for delivery.
- Short-term storage: Ideal if you have a gap between move-out and move-in dates.
- Long-term storage: Great for downsizing, remodeling, or extended relocations.
Movers often handle the transport to and from the storage facility—so you don’t have to lift a finger.
When Storage Might Be Necessary
Here are a few situations where storage can really come in handy:
- Your new home’s closing date is delayed.
- You’re doing renovations before moving in.
- You’re temporarily relocating and plan to move back later.
- You’re downsizing and need time to sort through excess belongings.
While storage isn’t always included by default, many full-service moving companies offer it as a convenient add-on. Be sure to ask what’s available and what the costs are so you can plan accordingly. Having storage as part of your moving package keeps your move flexible—and your belongings protected.
How Much Does a Full-Service Residential Move Cost?
It’s no secret that full-service residential moves come at a higher price—but what you’re really paying for is convenience, safety, and peace of mind. The cost of your move depends on several factors, so let’s break it down so you can plan your budget with confidence.
Key Cost Factors
Here’s what influences the price of a full-service move:
- Home size: More rooms mean more items to pack, move, and unpack.
- Distance: Local moves cost less than long-distance or interstate relocations.
- Add-ons: Specialty services like custom crating, appliance handling, or storage will add to the cost.
- Timeline: Moves scheduled on weekends, during peak seasons, or on short notice may carry higher rates.
Average Price Range
While prices vary by region and company, here’s a general idea:
- Local full-service move: Typically ranges from $1,000 to $5,000 depending on the size of your home.
- Long-distance full-service move: Can range from $4,000 to $10,000+, depending on distance, volume, and services selected.
Remember, these are estimates—each move is unique.
Tips for Getting Accurate Quotes
To avoid surprises:
- Request an in-home or virtual estimate so movers can assess the volume and complexity of your move.
- Be upfront about add-ons like storage, crating, or special handling needs.
- Get quotes from multiple companies to compare not just price, but what’s included in the service.
A full-service move is an investment—but for many, the time and stress saved are well worth it. Knowing what drives the cost helps you make the best choice for your situation.
How Long Does a Full-Service Move Take?
One of the biggest perks of hiring full-service movers is that they make the entire process faster and more efficient. But how long will it actually take? The timeline for a full-service move depends on a few key factors, but here’s what you can generally expect.
Average Timelines
- Packing: For an average 2-3 bedroom home, professional movers can usually complete packing in 1-2 days. Larger homes or those with fragile or specialty items may take longer.
- Loading + Transport: Local moves typically complete loading and transport in a single day. Long-distance moves can take several days to a week or more, depending on the distance.
- Unpacking: Unpacking services can often be completed the same day as delivery or the day after, depending on the size of the home and how much is being unpacked.
Factors That Can Affect Timing
Several things can speed up or slow down your move:
- Size of your home: The more rooms and belongings, the longer the process takes.
- Distance of the move: Local moves are faster. Cross-country moves or those requiring multiple stops take longer.
- Specialty items: Items like pianos, antiques, or custom furniture often require more time for careful handling.
- Accessibility: Homes with narrow hallways, stairs, or limited truck access can slow down loading and unloading.
Benefits of Choosing a Full-Service Residential Mover
If you’re looking for a way to make your move smoother, a full-service residential mover offers a level of convenience that’s hard to beat. It’s more than just transporting boxes—it’s about creating a stress-free experience from start to finish.
Saves Time and Reduces Stress
Packing up an entire home, coordinating the move, and unpacking everything at the other end is a massive time commitment. Full-service movers handle all of this, freeing you up to focus on your family, work, or simply enjoying the transition to your new space. No late nights packing boxes or last-minute scrambling required.
Professional Packing = Better Protection
When professionals pack your belongings, they use the right materials and techniques to protect fragile and valuable items. Your furniture, glassware, artwork, and electronics get wrapped, padded, and packed with care. This greatly lowers the risk of breakage or damage during transport.
One Point of Contact, Total Convenience
With a full-service mover, you don’t have to juggle multiple vendors or coordinate different stages of the move yourself. You have one team handling packing, transport, unpacking, and cleanup. This keeps communication clear and makes the whole process easier to manage.
In short, choosing a full-service mover means less stress, more time saved, and greater peace of mind that your belongings are in good hands. It’s a smart option for those who want their move done right—with minimal effort on their part.
When Should You Hire Full-Service Movers?
Full-service movers aren’t just for luxury relocations—they’re a smart choice in many everyday situations where time, effort, or complexity becomes a challenge. Knowing when to go full-service can help you make a move that’s easier, safer, and more efficient.
Ideal Scenarios for Full-Service Movers
Here’s when full-service moving is usually worth it:
- Busy schedules: If work, family, or other responsibilities leave little time to pack and plan, full-service movers take the pressure off.
- Large homes: The more belongings you have, the more overwhelming it becomes to handle packing and moving on your own.
- Long-distance relocations: Moving across states or the country comes with extra logistics—professional movers help manage it all.
- Families with kids: Letting pros handle the heavy lifting means you can focus on your children and keep the transition smoother for them.
- Elderly homeowners: A full-service move removes physical strain and ensures everything is handled safely.
When Partial Services or DIY Might Be Enough
Of course, you don’t always need the whole package. Here’s when it might make sense to go with a DIY or partial moving service:
- You have a small apartment or minimal belongings.
- You want to control how everything is packed and labeled.
- You’re on a tight budget and don’t mind putting in the work.
In the end, it’s all about what fits your situation. Full-service movers offer unbeatable convenience—but partial or DIY options can work well if your move is simpler or you prefer a hands-on approach.
FAQs About Full-Service Residential Moving
What is included in a full-service move?
A full-service move covers everything: packing, loading, transportation, unloading, unpacking, furniture disassembly/reassembly, and removal of packing materials. Some movers also offer storage, appliance handling, and specialty crating as part of the package or as add-ons.
Do full-service movers pack and unpack everything?
Yes—if you choose full packing and unpacking services, movers will handle all your household items, from books and clothes to kitchenware and electronics. You can also choose partial services if you’d like to pack certain items yourself.
Do full-service moving companies disassemble and reassemble furniture?
Absolutely. Full-service movers take apart beds, tables, shelving units, and other large furniture for safe transport. Once at your new home, they reassemble it so it’s ready for use.
Do full-service movers provide storage?
Many do! Both short-term and long-term storage options are typically available if your new home isn’t ready or you need extra time before delivery.
How long does a full-service move take?
It depends on your home size, distance, and the complexity of your move. Packing can take 1-2 days, local moves are often completed in a day, while long-distance moves can take several days to a week.
Do full-service movers move appliances?
Yes, many full-service movers will disconnect, move, and reconnect standard appliances like washers, dryers, and refrigerators—just confirm this when booking.
Can I customize which services I want?
Definitely. You don’t have to choose all services—many companies let you mix and match based on your needs and budget. For example, you might hire them for packing and transport, but handle the unpacking yourself.
What’s the difference between white-glove and full-service moving?
White-glove moving is a premium level of full-service moving that focuses on high-value or delicate items. It often includes custom crating, climate-controlled transport, and extra care during handling—perfect for art, antiques, or luxury goods.
