Cost Of Moving 1 Bedroom Apartment Get Free Quotes

Moving a 1-bedroom apartment might seem straightforward, but the costs can add up quickly if you’re not prepared. While most people expect expenses like truck rental or hiring movers, there are hidden costs and money-saving strategies that often go unnoticed. At Three Movers, we want to make your move as smooth (and affordable) as possible.

The cost to move a 1-bedroom residence will vary, depending on the amount of things you have, the services chosen, and the distance of the haul. While a one-bedroom apartment seems like a small move, it can vary quite a bit. Some one-bedroom apartments are only about 400 square feet, but others can be 1,000 square feet or even more. Maybe you live in a crowded place because you have a ton of things. If you own a lot of things, it will cost more to move your one-bedroom flat compared to someone living with the bare minimum.

Moving companies will also take into consideration the access to your flat. If you live on the first floor and they can easily access your apartment, the cost will be less compared to a one-bedroom flat on the 10th floor with no elevator for moving things.

Here's everything you need to know before budgeting for your move.

How Much Does It Cost to Move a 1-Bedroom Apartment?

The cost of moving a one-bedroom apartment varies based on the distance, the services you choose, and the time of year. Here’s a general estimate:

• Local Move (Under 100 miles): $300 – $1,500
• Long-Distance Move (100+ miles): $1,500 – $4,000
• Cross-Country Move: $2,500 – $5,000+
• International Move: Varies based on shipping, customs, and logistics

But that’s just the basic cost. Let’s dive into the real factors that affect your final moving bill.

If you rent a trailer or moving cubes instead of hiring a full-service moving company, it might be cheaper for a long-distance move. However, those types of hauling companies do not provide packing services, therefore, you’ll have to do the packing and unpacking all by yourself.

Estimated Cost to Move 1 Bedroom Apartment

Let's look at the estimated cost broken down into three categories for your one-bedroom haul.

Sparse (you don't have own much stuff)

The cost to move a 1-bedroom apartment without much stuff will still vary based on the access to the flat. Your estimated range is:

• Easy Apartment Access - $400 to $450
• Moderate flat Access - $450 to $500
• Difficult Apartment Access - $500 to $550

This cost might be higher if you own any specialty items you need to move or you choose packing services from the moving company.

Moderate (you own a common amount of things)

If you own what would be considered an average amount of things in an average-sized one-bedroom house the cost to move your 1-bedroom apartment will be:

• Easy Apartment Access - $500 to $700
• Moderate Flat Access - $600 to $800
• Difficult Apartment Access - $700 to $900

This is just a general range for a local move if you own what is considered a rather normal amount of things for a one-bedroom home.

Jam-Packed (your apartment is filled up)

When the apartment is filled with things the haul will be more expensive. This also goes for a larger one-bedroom apartment. The average price to move this type of one-bedroom apartment will be:

• Easy Flat Access - $800 to $1,000
• Moderate Housing Access - $900 to $1,100
• Difficult Apartment Access - $1,100 to $1,300

The cost to move a 1-bedroom flat will also go up if you choose carton packing for your items.

When you move long-distance, the cost will vary based on how much furniture and household stuff you want to relocate. Additionally, the cost will also fluctuate depending on the total moving distance. The further your things must go, the more it will price. You will also pay extra for valuation insurance and full carton packing services if you opt for any of these.

While a one-bedroom apartment doesn't seem like much to move, the price can still vary quite a bit. The cost to move a 1-bedroom apartment will vary based on distance, amount of stuff, access, and the services you choose.

Cheapest Ways To Haul

The cost of moving a 1 bedroom apartment also depends on the type of method you use for the haul. Here are some cheap ways of moving a one bedroom apartment.

1. Rental Truck
2. Cargo Trailer
3. Freight Trailer
4. Pallet Shipper
5. PODS
6. Relo Cube
7. Full Service Moving Company

Rental Truck

This option is very cost effective if you can fulfill most of the shifting needs on your own. If you have to hire people for packing, loading and unloading or disassembly and reassembly then the cost can rise significantly. This method allows you some flexibility as there you can get rental trucks of multiple sizes. So, you can rent a truck based on the size of your apartment. This means you will not have to pay for a space that you'll not need.

Cargo Trailer

This method is quite similar to renting a truck as it is only applicable for DIY moves. But, unlike a rental truck, you'll not be able to use a cargo trailer if your apartment is quite big and has a lot of stuff. But, if you are moving to a small apartment, it is a cheaper option than renting a truck. In this method, you will have to rent a cargo trailer and use your own vehicle to tow the trailer.

Freight Goods

Now, this is a method similar to that of a cargo trailer. The main difference is that the freight trailer is for people who have a large one bedroom apartment. Plus, you'll not be able to tow a freight trailer with your vehicle that you use for commuting. You should use a freight trailer only if you have enough stuff to fill up the freight trailer. Otherwise, this will not be a cost effective option as you'll be unnecessarily paying for the space that you don't need. This option is more suited for long distance moves.

Pallet Shipper

Just like cargo trailers, it is only applicable for small moves. And, just like freight trailers, this method is more suited for long-distance moves. For this, you'll have to use the services of commercial shipping companies. Pallet shipments are quite safe and you can be almost certain that your shipment will not get damaged during the haul. This option is not a good solution when relocating an apartment bigger than 1 bedroom.

PODS

This method is more suitable if you also need storage options. PODS is a company that provides you with storage containers for moving. This means you'll get two services for the price of one. PODS containers are a safe place to store and move your stuff. You will have to load PODS containers on your own, but you will not have to drive them on your own. But, there are only a few sizes of PODS containers. Most of their containers are likely to be too big for a one-bedroom apartment. So, only use this option if you need a storage option. Learn How Much Do Pods Cost For Moving?

Relo Cube

This is almost the same as PODS. The main difference is that these are storage containers for hauling provided by a different company, i.e. U Pack. Unlike PODS there is only one size of ReloCube. But, the 6' relocube should be enough for a one bedroom apartment. The cost of Relocube is significantly cheaper than PODS moving cost but ReloCube but is a smaller name in the industry.

Full Service Moving Company

Initially, this option may seem a bit more costly than other options. But, there is always a possibility of cost overruns when carrying out a DIY haul. You don't need to worry about that when you hire a full service moving company. Hiring a reliable full service movers ensures you a stress free shifting experience. When you hire a moving company, you will not have to do any of the physical tasks which are not good for your health. Plus, hiring professional haulers will not price much if you can find affordable movers like Three Movers.

Hidden Costs of Moving a 1-Bedroom Apartment

1. “Peak Season” Pricing – Why Timing Matters

Did you know that moving in the summer can cost 25–40% more than moving in the winter? This is because demand is high between May and September when families relocate before the school year starts. If you’re flexible, moving between October and March can save you hundreds of dollars.

2. Packing Supplies – More Than Just Boxes

People often underestimate how much packing materials cost. You might need:
✔ Boxes ($1–$5 per box)
✔ Bubble wrap & packing paper ($20–$50)
✔ Packing tape ($10–$30)
✔ Mattress covers & furniture blankets ($20–$100)

To cut costs, check local stores, Facebook Marketplace, or Craigslist for free boxes, and use towels and clothes to wrap breakables instead of buying bubble wrap.

3. Stairs vs. Elevator – The “Stair Fee” Surprise

Live in an apartment with no elevator? Moving companies often charge a “stair fee”, which can range from $50–$100 per flight of stairs. If you live in a walk-up building, ask your movers about this fee in advance to avoid last-minute surprises.

4. Last-Minute Booking Costs More

If you book your move less than a week in advance, you may end up paying up to 30% more than if you schedule at least a month ahead. This is because last-minute availability is limited, and moving companies charge premium rates.

5. The “Shuttle Fee” for Long-Distance Moves

For cross-country or long-distance moves, a large moving truck may not fit in your apartment’s parking area. Movers may need to use a smaller truck (a shuttle) to transport your items from your apartment to the main moving truck, which costs $200–$500 extra.

Ways to Reduce the Cost of Moving Your 1-Bedroom Apartment

Want to save money on your move? Here are some expert tips:

🔹 Book Movers Early: Scheduling your move 4–6 weeks in advance locks in lower rates.
🔹 Move Mid-Month & Mid-Week: Most people move on weekends and at the start/end of the month. Rates are lower on weekdays.
🔹 Declutter First: The less you move, the less you pay. Donate, sell, or dispose of items you no longer need.
🔹 Use a Hybrid Moving Approach: Rent a moving container (Pod) or a truck, and hire movers for loading/unloading only instead of full-service moving.
🔹 Check for Discounts: Some companies offer student, military, or senior discounts – always ask!

Final Thoughts – Plan Smart, Save Big

Moving a 1-bedroom apartment isn’t just about the movers or truck rental. Hidden fees, timing, and last-minute choices can all increase your costs. But by planning ahead, choosing the right services, and avoiding peak-season pricing, you can keep your move affordable and stress-free.

At Three Movers, we provide transparent pricing, no hidden fees, and expert guidance to help you budget wisely. Need an estimate for your move? Contact us at (888) 202-0036 today for a free quote!