How Much Do Movers Cost in Seattle?
Real pricing from the Seattle market — not national averages. We've moved furniture in this city, and here's what you should actually expect to pay.
💡 Quick Answer
A local Seattle move costs between $400 and $4,000+ depending on home size. Hourly rates run $90–$125 for a 2-man crew with truck. Most 2-bedroom moves land around $900–$1,400. Book during off-season (October–February) to save 10–25%.
Seattle Moving Cost by Home Size
These are averages for local moves (under 50 miles) within the Seattle metro area. Prices include a crew, truck, and basic equipment.
| Home Size | Average Cost | Crew Size | Est. Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | ~$400 | 2 movers | 2–3 hours |
| 1 Bedroom | $600–$900 | 2 movers | 3–4 hours |
| 2 Bedrooms | $900–$1,400 | 3 movers | 4–6 hours |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,400–$2,200 | 3–4 movers | 6–8 hours |
| 4+ Bedrooms | $2,200–$4,000+ | 4+ movers | 8+ hours |
Hourly Rates for Seattle Movers
2-Man Crew
$90–$125/hr
Most studio & 1-bed moves
3-Man Crew
$130–$170/hr
Most 2-3 bed moves
4-Man Crew
$170–$220/hr
Large homes, 4+ bedrooms
What Affects Your Moving Cost
Two identical apartments can cost very different amounts to move. Here's what drives the price up (or down):
Distance
📍 +$50–200 for cross-cityMoves across town (e.g., Capitol Hill to Ballard) cost more than a move within the same neighborhood. Once you cross 50+ miles, you're in long-distance territory.
Stairs & Walk-Ups
🪜 +$50–150 per location with stairsNo elevator? That's the single biggest time-eater on a move. Capitol Hill and older Seattle buildings are notorious for this. Each flight of stairs adds 15-30 minutes to the job.
Heavy & Specialty Items
🏋️ +$75–500 per specialty itemPianos, gun safes, pool tables, oversized sectionals — these require extra crew, equipment, and time. A piano alone can add $200-500 to your move.
Season & Timing
📅 +20–40% during peak seasonMay through September is peak season in Seattle. Everyone's moving, crews are booked, and prices surge. Weekends and month-end dates are the worst.
Packing Services
📦 +$300–1,000 for full packingFull packing service adds significant cost but saves you days of work. Partial packing (kitchen + fragiles only) is a good middle ground.
Building Access & Parking
🏢 +$50–200 for difficult accessDowntown high-rises with loading dock rules, elevator reservations, and tight parking add complexity. Some buildings require COI (certificate of insurance) and impose move-in/out windows.
Peak Season Pricing in Seattle
Seattle's moving market has a clear seasonal pattern driven by tech hiring cycles, University of Washington move-in/out, and the simple fact that nobody wants to move in the rain.
| Period | Demand | Price Impact |
|---|---|---|
| May – September | 🔴 Peak Season | +20–40% premium |
| June – August | 🔴🔴 Highest Demand | Book 4–8 weeks ahead |
| October – November | 🟡 Shoulder Season | Moderate pricing |
| December – February | 🟢 Off-Season | 10–25% discounts |
| Month-end / Weekends | 🔴 Always higher | +15–25% vs mid-week |
Pro tip: If you have flexibility, a mid-month Tuesday in January is the cheapest day to move in Seattle. You'll get the best rates and the most attentive crews.
7 Ways to Save Money on Your Seattle Move
Move off-season (October–February)
You can save 10–25% just by timing your move during Seattle's rainy season. Yes, it'll drizzle — but your wallet will thank you, and movers have more availability.
Choose mid-week, mid-month dates
Avoid the 1st/last of the month and weekends. Tuesday through Thursday moves are the cheapest because demand is lowest.
Declutter before the move
Every box costs money to move. Sell, donate, or trash what you don't need. One less truckload can save you $200-400.
Pack yourself (at least partially)
Full packing service adds $300-1,000+. Pack your own clothes, books, and non-fragiles. Let movers handle the kitchen and artwork.
Get 3 quotes minimum
Prices vary significantly between companies. Getting multiple quotes isn't just smart — it's essential. That's exactly what we help with.
Disassemble furniture ahead of time
Movers charge by the hour. If your bed, desk, and IKEA furniture are already broken down, you'll save 30-60 minutes of crew time.
Reserve your building's elevator and loading dock
In Seattle high-rises, failing to reserve the elevator or loading dock means your crew stands around waiting — and you're paying by the hour.
Want to Know Your Exact Cost?
Get personalized quotes from up to 3 vetted Seattle movers — free, no obligation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the minimum cost for a local move in Seattle?▼
Most Seattle movers have a 2-hour minimum, so you're looking at $180–$250 minimum for a 2-man crew. Studio and small 1-bedroom moves typically land around $400 total.
Do Seattle movers charge for travel time?▼
Most local Seattle movers include travel time to your first location in their rate. Some charge from their shop to your home — always ask upfront so there are no surprises.
Should I tip my movers?▼
Tipping isn't required but is appreciated. $20-40 per mover for a half-day job and $40-60 for a full day is standard in Seattle. Cold water and snacks go a long way too.
Are there extra fees I should know about?▼
Watch for: long-carry fees (if truck can't park close), stair fees, heavy item surcharges, weekend premiums, and fuel surcharges. A good mover will disclose all fees upfront.
How far in advance should I book Seattle movers?▼
In peak season (May–Sept), book 4-8 weeks ahead. Off-season, 1-2 weeks is usually fine. Last-minute moves are possible but cost more and limit your options.