
When planning a move, one of the first questions most homeowners ask is: How much do movers cost for a 3-bedroom house? The answer isn’t always simple. Several variables influence the final cost, from the distance of the move to the services required and even the time of year. Understanding these factors can help you plan your budget more effectively and avoid surprises when you receive quotes from moving companies.
1. Size and Weight of Household Items
Although the number of bedrooms offers a general guideline, the volume and weight of your belongings significantly impact the moving cost. Not all 3-bedroom homes are created equal. One household might have minimal furnishings and no large appliances, while another may contain heavy antique furniture, a piano, gym equipment, and more.
Professional movers typically estimate costs based on:
- Cubic feet or total volume of items
- Weight (especially for long-distance moves)
- Specialty items that require extra care or equipment
Pro Tip:
To receive a more accurate quote, take inventory of your items beforehand and share it with your chosen moving company.
2. Local vs. Long-Distance Move
One of the most critical pricing factors is how far you’re moving.
- Local Moves (typically under 100 miles): Movers often charge by the hour. For a 3-bedroom home, expect 3-5 movers working for 6-10 hours, depending on the complexity of the move.
- Long-Distance Moves (over 100 miles or state-to-state): Charges are usually based on weight and distance. Additional fuel charges, tolls, and logistics come into play.
For instance, moving from Birmingham, AL, to Atlanta, GA, will cost more than moving across town due to travel time, gas, and regulatory considerations.
3. Packing Services
If you choose to pack your belongings yourself, you’ll save on labor costs. However, professional packing can greatly reduce stress and ensure your items are safely protected.
Packing costs depend on:
- Number of items
- Type of items (fragile vs. non-fragile)
- Supplies used (boxes, bubble wrap, tape, etc.)
Typical Add-On Fees:
- Full packing: The crew packs everything, including kitchenware, clothes, and decor.
- Partial packing: Only specific rooms or fragile items.
- Unpacking services: Items are unpacked and disposed of neatly in your new home.
Delaney’s Moving & Storage offers comprehensive packing services, and we can tailor our approach to meet your needs and budget.
4. Labor and Time
Hourly labor costs can vary by region and moving company. For a 3-bedroom home, movers may recommend 3–5 workers. The time required depends on:
- Accessibility of your home (e.g., multiple floors, elevators, long walkways)
- Number of stairs
- Size of doorways
- How well you’ve prepared for the move
If everything is ready to go and packed properly, the process is streamlined. However, if movers need to disassemble furniture, unplug appliances, or wait on site, time (and cost) can increase.
5. Moving Date and Season
Like many industries, moving has its peak and off-peak seasons. Summer is the busiest—and priciest—time to move due to school breaks and favorable weather.
Factors That Influence Pricing by Time:
- Peak season: May through September (highest demand and prices)
- Off-peak: October through April (lower prices and more availability)
- Weekend moves: Higher rates than weekday slots
- End-of-month moves: Usually busier due to lease turnovers and closing dates
Booking your move in advance, especially during peak months, ensures you lock in a preferred time slot and better rates.
6. Additional Services and Fees
The more services you add, the higher the cost. However, the convenience and peace of mind are often well worth the extras.
Common Add-Ons:
- Storage services: Temporary or long-term storage of items
- Disassembly and reassembly: Beds, furniture, playground equipment
- Special handling: Pianos, safes, antiques, fine art
- Shuttle service: If a large truck can’t access your home, a smaller truck is used
- Crating: Custom boxes for TVs, glass tables, or delicate artwork
At Delaney’s, we’re equipped to handle all these needs and more with precision and professionalism.
7. Insurance and Valuation Coverage
Most moving companies offer basic liability protection for free, but it only covers a small amount per pound of your goods (often 60 cents per pound).
You may want to opt for:
- Full Value Protection: The mover covers the repair, replacement, or cash value of any lost/damaged item.
- Third-party moving insurance: Especially for high-value items.
While this is an additional cost, it’s essential to consider when evaluating the cost of movers for a 3-bedroom home, especially if your belongings include irreplaceable items.
8. Access and Logistics Challenges
Every move is unique, and logistical complications can increase both the time and cost of your relocation.
Common Challenges That Add to the Cost:
- Long carry distances: If the truck can’t park close to your door
- Elevator usage: Limited access or time-restricted buildings
- Permits and parking: Some urban areas require permits for moving trucks
- Weather conditions: Rain, snow, or extreme heat can slow down a move
Planning with a seasoned team like Delaney’s helps prevent these hiccups—or address them seamlessly if they arise.
9. Moving Supplies
Don’t overlook the cost of moving boxes and supplies if you choose to pack yourself. Expenses add up quickly when you need:
- Wardrobe boxes
- Dish barrels
- Mattress covers
- Packing tape and bubble wrap
Delaney’s can supply professional-grade materials to keep your items safe or handle all packing in-house, saving you time and worry.
10. Tips for Saving on a 3-Bedroom Move
While moving always comes with a cost, there are smart strategies to stay within budget:
Ways to Save:
- Declutter before the move: Sell, donate, or discard unnecessary items
- Move during off-peak season: Lower rates and greater availability
- Pack yourself (carefully!): If you have time and materials
- Get multiple quotes: Compare services, not just pricing
- Be prepared: The more organized you are, the faster the move
Most importantly, work with an experienced moving company that offers transparent pricing and tailored solutions.
Sample Price Ranges for a 3-Bedroom Move
While each move is unique, here’s a rough estimate of what you might expect:
Note: These are ballpark figures. Your final cost will vary based on the factors covered above.
Why Choose Delaney’s Moving & Storage?
For nearly 25 years, Delaney’s Moving & Storage has been the trusted name for residential, commercial, industrial, and government moves across Alabama and Georgia. We pride ourselves on delivering professional, efficient, and friendly service, no matter the size or scope of the move.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Locally owned and operated
- Full-service moving, packing, and storage options
- Trained and vetted movers
- Specialty moving services for delicate or complex items
- Long-distance capabilities with care and precision
- Fully licensed and insured
Whether you’re moving across town or relocating across the country, we have the expertise and dedication to make your transition smooth and stress-free.
Contact Us Today for a Personalized Quote!
Still wondering how much movers cost for your 3-bedroom home? Let us provide a free, personalized estimate based on your unique needs.
Skip the hassle of second-rate movers and trust the pros with a proven track record. Call us directly to schedule your consultation.
Don’t settle for less. Move with confidence—move with Delaney’s.