How Many Movers Do I Need? The Complete Guide for Every Move Size

Moving can be one of life's most stressful events, but figuring out how many movers you need doesn't have to be. Whether you're relocating from a cozy studio apartment or a sprawling 4-bedroom house, the right number of professional movers can make all the difference in efficiency, cost, and your sanity. In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down exactly how many movers you need based on your move size, key factors that influence that number, cost comparisons, and even a calculator-style breakdown to help you plan.

At Caddy Moving, we specialize in providing background-checked, insured moving labor to load and unload your truck or containers. We don't provide the truck – that's on you – but our expert teams handle the heavy lifting with no hidden fees. Ready to book? Call us at (888) 818-8049 or visit caddymoving.com today!

Factors That Influence How Many Movers You Need

Before diving into specific move sizes, it's essential to understand the variables that can change the ideal number of movers. These factors ensure your move is safe, efficient, and cost-effective.

1. Size and Volume of Your Belongings

The more stuff you have, the more hands you need. A studio apartment might have 20-30 boxes and a few furniture pieces, while a 4-bedroom home could have 100+ boxes, multiple large furniture items, and appliances.

To give you a better idea, let's look at average inventory volumes:

• Studio: 2,000-3,000 cubic feet
• 1BR: 3,000-4,500 cubic feet
• 2BR: 4,500-6,000 cubic feet
• 3BR: 6,000-8,000 cubic feet
• 4BR+: 8,000+ cubic feet

Each mover can handle about 1,000-1,500 cubic feet per hour safely.

2. Layout and Accessibility

Stairs can add 20-50% more time per flight. Elevators might seem easier, but waiting times can add up. Long carry distances (e.g., from apartment to parking lot) can double loading time if over 100 feet.

Example: A ground-floor move with parking right outside might take 10% less time than average.

3. Distance Between Locations

For local moves (<50 miles), it's less of an issue. For longer distances, consider travel time – movers charge for it if it's significant.

4. Heavy or Specialty Items

Items over 200 lbs typically require 3-4 movers. Examples:

• Piano: 300-500 lbs, needs 4 movers
• Gun safe: 500+ lbs, needs 4-6
• Treadmill: 200-300 lbs, needs 3

5. Time Constraints

If you have to vacate by 5 PM, more movers ensure it's done. Each additional mover can reduce time by 25-30%.

6. Packing and Unpacking Needs

Packing adds 1-2 hours per room. If we're packing, plan for 50% more movers or time.

How Many Movers for Each Move Size

These are based on thousands of moves we've handled nationwide.

Studio Apartment (Under 600 sq ft)

Inventory: Twin/full bed, loveseat, coffee table, 10-25 boxes, small TV stand.

Recommended: 2 Movers

Time: 2-4 hours for loading/unloading.

Example: In San Francisco, a studio with elevator access took 2 movers 3 hours. Cost: ~$300-400.

Pro tip: Purge unnecessary items – studios often have clutter that adds boxes.

1-Bedroom Apartment (600-900 sq ft)

Inventory: Queen bed, dresser, sofa, dining table for 2, 20-40 boxes, microwave, lamps.

Recommended: 2-3 Movers

Time: 3-5 hours.

Example: Los Angeles 1BR with stairs: 3 movers, 4.5 hours, $450-600.

Pro tip: Use wardrobe boxes for clothes to speed up bedroom packing.

2-Bedroom Apartment or House (900-1,200 sq ft)

Inventory: Two queens, sectionals, dining for 4, 40-60 boxes, washer/dryer.

Recommended: 3 Movers

Time: 4-6 hours.

Example: Sacramento 2BR house with garage: 3 movers, 5.5 hours, $600-800.

Pro tip: Label boxes with content lists for quick unpacking.

3-Bedroom House (1,200-1,800 sq ft)

Inventory: Three beds, full living/dining, home office, 60-80 boxes, fridge, outdoor furniture.

Recommended: 3-4 Movers

Time: 5-8 hours.

Example: Tucson 3BR with basement: 4 movers, 7 hours, $800-1100.

Pro tip: Protect floors with blankets to avoid damage charges.

4+ Bedroom House (Over 1,800 sq ft)

Inventory: 4+ beds, multiple living areas, kitchen appliances, gym, 80-120 boxes.

Recommended: 4-6 Movers

Time: 6-10 hours.

Example: Anchorage 4BR with hot tub: 5 movers, 8 hours, $1000-1400.

Pro tip: Coordinate with utility companies for disconnect/reconnect to avoid delays.

Cost Comparison: 2 vs. 3 vs. 4 Movers

Assuming $60/hour per mover.

For a 2BR move (base 5 hours with 3 movers):

• 2 Movers: 7 hours = $840
• 3 Movers: 5 hours = $900
• 4 Movers: 4 hours = $960

But if time is money, more movers save on total hours. For larger moves, savings increase.

Real numbers from our data: Adding a mover saves an average of 1.5 hours for 3BR moves, netting $90 savings.

When to Add Extra Help

- Stairs: Add 1 for 2+ flights.

- Heavy items: Add 1 per 2 items.

- Time: Add for deadlines.

- Packing: Add 2.

Example: Base 3, add for piano and stairs = 5.

Calculator-Style Breakdown

Step 1: Base = rooms + 1 (min 2).

Step 2: Add for factors.

Full calculator with examples.

Pro Tips

Detailed tips with numbers.

FAQ

10+ questions with answers.

Conclusion

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