Packing is the most time-consuming part of any move, which is why so many people pay to hand it off. Professional packing is billed separately from the move itself, and the cost depends on your home size, whether you want full or partial packing, and how much material the job needs. This guide covers current packing service and supply prices.
All figures are estimate ranges based on current US data. Your quote depends on home size, the density of your belongings, and your location, so use these as planning numbers.
Quick facts: packing costs
| Service or item | Typical cost range (estimate) |
|---|---|
| Full packing service (whole home) | $280 to $2,200 |
| Per packer, per hour | $25 to $100 |
| Packing materials, 1-bedroom | Around $180 |
| Packing materials, 3-bedroom | Up to $750 |
| Partial / selective packing | $200 to $500 |
| Unpacking add-on | $100 to $1,400 |
What professional packing costs
A full-service pack for an entire home typically runs $280 to $2,200, with the wide range driven mostly by home size. A one-bedroom apartment sits near the bottom, while a large four or five bedroom house lands at the top.
Packers are usually billed in one of two ways:
- Hourly, commonly $25 to $40 per packer per hour, though some companies quote $50 to $100 per packer depending on the market. Most homes need at least two packers.
- Flat rate, more common on long-distance moves, based on an in-home or virtual estimate of your total volume.
A small crew can pack a three-bedroom home in roughly eight hours, while a one-bedroom takes a fraction of that.
Packing material costs
Materials are often a separate line item unless your quote specifically includes them. Typical material costs run about $180 for a one-bedroom home up to $750 or more for a three-bedroom. Individual boxes are inexpensive, with small boxes around $1 and larger ones $2.50 or more, but a full house needs a lot of them, plus tape, paper, and bubble wrap.
If a full-service mover supplies materials, expect a markup. Some charge $3 to $5 per box and $20 to $40 per wardrobe box, which is why supplying your own boxes is a popular way to save.
Full vs. partial packing
You do not have to pack everything or nothing. Selective packing, where the crew handles just the kitchen, fragile items, or artwork while you do the rest, typically costs $200 to $500. This is a sensible middle ground if you can box up books and clothes yourself but want professionals handling dishes, electronics, and valuables.
One real advantage of professional packing: when the movers pack your boxes, they are generally liable for damage caused by improper packing, which is not the case for boxes you pack yourself.
How packing fits the bigger budget
Packing is one of the largest add-ons to a standard move, and on a long-distance move it can be the difference that keeps you on schedule. For specialty items that need custom crating, such as a piano, see our piano moving guide, and for how packing scales with your home, the cost to move by home size guide.
Ways to cut packing costs
The biggest savings come from doing some of the work yourself. Pack your own non-fragile items like books, clothes, and linens, and leave only the dishes, electronics, and valuables to the pros. Source free boxes from supermarkets and retailers, which often give away empties. Declutter first so there is simply less to pack. And book off-season and mid-week, since packing rates rise 20 to 30 percent during the May to September peak.
For the full relocation budget, see the cost to move overview.
Frequently asked questions
How much do professional packers cost? A full-home pack typically runs $280 to $2,200 depending on size, with hourly rates of $25 to $100 per packer. Most homes need at least two packers.
How much do moving boxes cost? Materials run about $180 for a one-bedroom up to $750 for a three-bedroom. Individual boxes are cheap, from around $1 to $2.50 each, but a full home needs many of them plus tape and padding.
Is partial packing worth it? Often yes. Selective packing of just fragile or high-value items costs $200 to $500 and gives you professional handling where it matters most while you save on the rest.
Are packing materials included in the price? Sometimes, but frequently they are a separate line item, especially with hourly services. Always ask whether materials are included in your quote.
This guide is for general informational purposes only. All costs are estimate ranges based on current US market data and will vary by home size, company, and location. Always get written quotes before booking packing services.
Related reading: How much does it cost to move? (full cost overview)
