Labor-Only Moving Help

Labor-only (sometimes called load help) is exactly what it sounds like: you rent the truck or container, the mover provides the crew and the muscle. A cost-effective option for DIY-minded moves that still need heavy lifting.

Average Cost: $60 - $150 / hr per mover (2 hr minimum)

When Labor-Only Makes Sense

You already booked a U-Haul, Penske, Budget, PODS, or U-Box. You can drive the truck yourself or have someone who can. You just need 2-4 people to load or unload efficiently without back injury. Common for students, small studio moves, and cross-country DIY.

Typical Costs

$60-$150 per hour per mover, with a 2-hour minimum. A 2-person loading crew for a 1-bedroom typically runs $300-$600 total. Unloading is usually faster and cheaper than loading. Stairs and long carries add time, not flat fees.

What It Does Not Include

Blankets, straps, tie-downs, and padding usually need to be provided by you or the truck rental. Driving the truck between pickup and delivery. Insurance on your goods during transit (your renter's, auto, or truck-rental policy covers this). Disassembly of large furniture is case-by-case - ask.