How Much Does Furniture Assembly Cost? What to Expect Before You Hire Help
In today’s fast-paced, convenience-focused world, many people prefer to purchase furniture online or from major retailers like Ikea, Amazon, or Wayfair. While these options often offer affordable, stylish pieces, they usually come in flat-pack boxes requiring self-assembly. That’s where professional help becomes invaluable. How much does it cost to assemble furniture? The short answer: it depends on the size, complexity, number of items, and who you hire. For those seeking a trusted, efficient solution, Aleks Moving stands out as a reliable partner for both moving and assembly services.
How Much Does It Cost to Assemble Furniture?
Average National Assembly Costs
Furniture assembly prices can vary widely depending on location and complexity, but on average, U.S. homeowners spend around $175 per assembly job. Most professional assembly services quote prices within a $150 to $200 range. On the lower end, simple furniture like basic chairs or nightstands may cost just $50, while complex or oversized pieces—such as modular shelving units, bunk beds, or outdoor swing sets—can command fees as high as $1,000.
These estimates generally reflect labor-only costs, not including the price of the furniture itself.
Cost by Furniture Size
The physical size of your furniture is one of the most important cost factors. Larger, heavier items often require additional labor, tools, and time, increasing your bill.
| Furniture Size | Average Cost |
| Small | $40 – $150 |
| Medium | $70 – $450 |
| Large | $100 – $550 |
| Extra-Large | $150 – $1,000 |
For example, assembling a small bookcase or end table may only take 15–30 minutes and cost under $100, while an extra-large entertainment center or walk-in wardrobe system can require several hours and cost upwards of $500.
Cost by Number of Items
Most professionals charge a minimum fee, even for just one item, to account for travel and setup time. However, assembling multiple pieces in one visit can unlock significant savings through bulk pricing.
| Items Assembled | Typical Total Cost |
| 1–2 items | $100 – $1,000 |
| 3–4 items | $200 – $1,800 |
| 5–6 items | $350 – $2,700 |
| 7–8 items | $500 – $3,600 |
Most assemblers offer 10% to 30% discounts when you bundle multiple items in one service call. For example, assembling a desk, chair, and file cabinet at once could cost significantly less than booking three separate appointments.
Cost by Furniture Type
Each furniture item has unique assembly requirements. Here’s a breakdown of average prices for commonly assembled items:
| Furniture Item | Average Cost |
| Chair | $40 – $160 |
| Table | $40 – $450 |
| Bed Frame | $70 – $160 |
| Sofa | $80 – $160 |
| Bookcase or Shelf | $80 – $150 |
| End Table | $40 – $100 |
| Dresser | $100 – $350 |
| Media Center | $100 – $350 |
| Crib | $100 – $250 |
| Cabinet | $100 – $450 |
| Swing Set (Outdoor) | $180 – $500 |
| Kitchen Island | $150 – $450 |
| Bunk Bed | $150 – $400 |
| Desk (Standard) | $100 – $300 |
| Desk (L-Shaped) | $350 – $550 |
As a rule of thumb, the more components, hardware, and instructions involved, the higher the assembly cost.
How Much Does It Cost to Assemble Office Furniture?
Office furniture is often more complex than residential pieces. It includes features like built-in storage, keyboard trays, shelving units, locking drawers, and more. Therefore, labor for office furniture can be more expensive, ranging between $100 and $1,000, depending on the item.
| Office Item | Cost Range |
| Standard Desk | $100 – $300 |
| L-Shaped Desk | $350 – $550 |
| Executive Desk | $300 – $700 |
| Modular Systems | $500 – $1,000 |
| Filing Cabinets | $80 – $200 |
| Cubicle Partitions | $200 – $500 |
For businesses or home offices, hiring a pro not only saves time but ensures structural integrity, crucial for heavy daily use.
Cost by Retailer or Delivery Platform
Many furniture retailers offer optional assembly services via third-party networks. These prices vary by region, contractor, and item type.
| Retailer | Assembly Cost Range |
| Amazon | $50 – $300 |
| Ikea | $50 – $450 |
| Wayfair | $90 – $450 |
These services are often bookable at checkout, with scheduling handled separately. While convenient, be aware that assembly quality can vary based on the assigned technician.
Factors That Influence Furniture Assembly Prices
Complexity of the Item
- Simple: End tables, stools, nightstands
- Moderate: Dining tables, chairs, cribs
- Complex: Entertainment centers, wardrobes, office desks with storage
Furniture Size and Weight
- Larger pieces may need two people for safety and efficiency, effectively doubling labor rates.
Labor Rates
- Average handyman rate: $90/hour
- Range: $40 – $140/hour
- Some pros charge flat project fees, while others bill hourly
Additional Services and Costs
- Packaging Disposal: $5 – $50
- Old Furniture Removal: Additional
- Wall Repair (e.g., drywall damage): $100 – $400 per incident
- Delays from Damaged or Missing Parts: Can increase time and cost
Final Thoughts: Should You Hire Help?
Assembling furniture yourself can be time-consuming and frustrating, especially when instructions are unclear or missing. For busy households, new homeowners, or office setups, hiring a pro can save hours and ensure safety.
Looking for a trusted provider? Aleks Moving offers top-rated, hassle-free furniture assembly and moving services across residential and commercial spaces. Their professional Oakville Movers team is equipped to handle jobs of all sizes with precision and care. Whether you’re setting up a home office, redecorating a living room, or outfitting an entire workspace, Aleks Moving delivers dependable results on time and within budget. Don’t risk scratching your new furniture or spending your weekend buried in screws. Call Aleks Moving today for a personalized quote and make your move or setup seamless and stress-free. Let their team handle the heavy lifting while you enjoy your newly assembled space!
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