Are Movers Worth It? The Hidden Costs of DIY Moving

When it’s time to move, the first question many people ask is:
Should I hire movers or do it myself?

On the surface, DIY moving seems cheaper. Rent a truck, call a few friends, grab some pizza and drinks—and you’re set, right? But once you break down the real costs—financial, physical, and emotional—hiring professional movers often makes a lot more sense.

Here’s why.

1. The Real Price of a Rental Truck

Rental trucks might advertise rates like “$29.99 a day,” but that’s not the full picture. The actual cost usually includes:

  • Mileage fees ($0.79–$1.29 per mile)

  • Fuel (10–15 mpg on average)

  • Insurance coverage

  • Equipment rentals (dollies, pads, straps)

  • Parking permits or tolls

By the end of the move, many customers spend $250–$500+ just on the truck.

2. Time Is Money

A DIY move often takes an entire weekend or more—packing, loading, driving, unloading, and returning the truck. Factor in time off work, childcare arrangements, and the time it takes to recover, and the cost rises quickly.

Professional movers can do the same job in half the time or less, often in just one day. That speed matters, especially when you're on a tight schedule or need to be out of a property by a deadline.

3. Physical Risk and Injury

Lifting sofas, mattresses, appliances, and boxes up and down stairs is exhausting and risky—especially for people who don’t do it every day.

Common injuries during DIY moves include:

  • Back strains

  • Knee and shoulder injuries

  • Cuts and bruises

  • Damage to walls, floors, or personal items

Hiring trained movers reduces both physical strain and the risk of serious injury—not to mention costly damage to your belongings or your home.

4. Wear and Tear on Relationships

Relying on friends and family may seem like a cost-saving move—but it often comes with hidden stress.

  • People cancel at the last minute

  • There’s little accountability if something breaks

  • It’s physically and emotionally exhausting

  • You end up doing more than your share

Professional movers show up, stay focused, and do the heavy lifting without drama. No awkward favors, no stress.

5. Damage, Delays, and Do-Overs

DIY moves are more prone to:

  • Scratched furniture and damaged walls

  • Broken items due to improper packing or stacking

  • Poor truck loading (which can cause items to shift and fall in transit)

Professional crews come with experience, tools, and techniques that protect your belongings and your property. At Good Movers, every mover is trained and paid well ($40/hour) to ensure extra care with every item.

6. Emotional Toll

Let’s be honest—moving is stressful. Trying to do it all yourself adds mental pressure, especially if things don’t go according to plan. Hiring pros allows you to focus on the transition itself—your family, your new job, or your new home—rather than fighting with furniture and rushing back to return the truck on time.

So... Are Movers Worth It?

If your time, safety, and peace of mind are valuable to you, then yes—movers are absolutely worth it.

At Good Movers, our pricing is simple and fair:
$150/hour for licensed, professional movers who know what they’re doing. You’ll get efficient service, careful handling, and a smoother, faster move—without the hidden costs of doing it yourself.

Want a stress-free move that’s actually worth what you pay for?
Get your quote at www.getgoodmovers.com or call 951-264-9103 to book today.