One of the first questions homeowners ask before hiring movers is:
“How long does it take movers to move a house?”
It’s a smart question. Moving day affects everything — time off work, elevator reservations, building access, childcare, and even your final moving cost. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, professional movers can usually complete most local residential moves within a single day.
In this guide, we’ll explain realistic moving timelines, what factors impact how long movers take, and how you can reduce delays on moving day.
Average Time Movers Take to Move a House
For local moves, movers typically estimate time based on home size, inventory, and access conditions.
Studio or 1-Bedroom Apartment
⏱ 2–4 hours
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Light furniture
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Few boxes
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Usually 2 movers
This is the fastest type of move, especially if everything is packed and there are no stairs.
2-Bedroom Apartment or Small House
⏱ 4–6 hours
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Standard household items
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2–3 movers
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Moderate loading and unloading time
This is one of the most common residential moves.
3-Bedroom House
⏱ 6–8 hours
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Larger furniture
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Multiple rooms
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3–4 movers recommended
Garages, patios, and storage areas often add time.
4+ Bedroom House
⏱ 8–12+ hours
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Heavy furniture
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Large inventory
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May require a full day or multiple trucks
Some larger homes may need two days, especially if packing is included.
What Factors Affect How Long Movers Take?
Even homes of the same size can have very different burlington moving service timelines. Here’s why.
1. Amount of Furniture and Boxes
The total volume of items is the biggest factor. Movers must:
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Carry items safely
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Load them strategically
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Secure everything inside the truck
Minimalist homes move much faster than fully furnished homes with storage units or garages.
2. Packing Status
Packing dramatically impacts moving time.
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Fully packed before movers arrive → fastest
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Partial packing → adds time
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Full packing service by movers → can add 2–4+ hours
If speed matters, packing in advance is one of the best things you can do.
3. Distance Between Locations
For local moves, driving time matters:
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Same neighborhood → minimal delay
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Across town → adds travel time
For long-distance moves:
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Loading may take one day
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Delivery can take several days depending on distance and schedule
4. Stairs, Elevators, and Access Issues
Moves take longer when:
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There are multiple flights of stairs
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Elevators are slow or shared
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Parking is far from the entrance
This is also why movers often ask detailed questions during estimates.
5. Number of Movers Assigned
More movers usually means a faster move.
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2 movers → slower but cheaper
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3–4 movers → faster and often more efficient
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Large homes → full crew recommended
A professional company will suggest the right crew size to avoid delays.
6. Large or Specialty Items
Special items take extra time, such as:
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Pianos
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Safes
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Pool tables
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Oversized sectionals
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Gym equipment
These require careful handling and sometimes additional movers.
7. Weather Conditions
Bad weather can slow down a move:
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Rain or snow → extra protection and caution
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Extreme heat → more breaks for safety
Professional movers plan for this, but it can still extend timelines.
How Long Does a Typical Moving Day Look?
A standard local moving day usually follows this flow:
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Arrival & walkthrough (15–30 minutes)
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Loading the truck (2–6 hours)
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Drive to new location
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Unloading & placement (1–4 hours)
Most residential local moves are completed within one day.
How Can You Reduce Moving Time?
If you want movers to finish faster, preparation is key.
Here’s what helps most:
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Pack all boxes before moving day
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Label boxes clearly by room
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Disassemble furniture in advance (if allowed)
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Reserve elevators in apartment buildings
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Clear hallways, stairwells, and driveways
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Keep pets and children out of work areas
These steps can easily save 1–2 hours on moving day.
Is Hiring Movers Faster Than Moving Yourself?
In almost every case, yes.
Professional movers:
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Work as a trained team
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Load trucks efficiently
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Know how to handle heavy items safely
DIY moves often take twice as long, especially for people without experience or proper equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take movers to move a 2-bedroom house?
Usually 4–6 hours, depending on packing, stairs, and distance.
Can movers finish a move in one day?
Yes. Almost all local residential moves are completed in one day.
Do movers work faster if I help?
Most companies prefer clients not to help for safety and insurance reasons. Being prepared is more helpful than assisting physically.
Does hiring more movers reduce total cost?
Sometimes. A larger crew can finish faster, which may reduce hourly charges.
What causes the biggest delays during a move?
Packing delays, stairs, elevator wait times, and inaccurate inventory estimates.
Final Thoughts
So, how long does it take movers to move a house?
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Small homes: 2–4 hours
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Medium homes: 4–8 hours
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Large homes: 8–12+ hours
The best way to get an accurate timeline is to:
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Provide a detailed inventory
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Mention stairs, elevators, and special items
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Hire an experienced moving company
A well-planned move isn’t just faster — it’s less stressful and more cost-effective.
