Published by Chris Townsend
Last updated Dec, 30 2025
Whether you’re moving into an older, pre-owned home or the construction on your new home is complete and you’re ready to move in, you’re probably dealing with different emotions. On the one hand, this is a very exciting time. However, it can be extremely stressful both emotionally and physically as well. At Three Movers, we know exactly how you feel and we’re ready to help make that job a lot easier. We can provide trained professionals who are skilled at shifting everything from small studio apartments to large mansions and more. We have over 20 years of experience with all types of hauls and can help you at every step of the way so that all your goods reach your destination city safe and secure.
How many movers will I need?
Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, and you plan on hiring a professional hauling company like us, deciding on the number of movers you need depends on several factors. The following tips and guidelines can help you in the decision-making process:
Take the size of your home into consideration – as one of the primary factors for determining the number of movers you need, the general rule of thumb is as follows:
- 2 movers for a studio apartment or a 1, 2, or 3-bedroom apartment
- a minimum of 3 shifters for a 2- or 3-bedroom home
- a minimum of 4 movers for a 3- or 4-bedroom home
- a minimum of 5 relocators for a home with more than 4 bedrooms
Take the number and weight of your items into consideration – while the size of your home is an important factor, no two homes of similar size have the same amount furnishings. Some individuals only buy the necessities (minimalists) while others prefer a more lavish home filled with numerous items. Consequently, the number and weight of all your items will affect the number of movers needed. If there are large boxes, more shifting crew will be required as compared to if you have smaller number of boxes.
Take your budget into consideration – in most cases, the first thing you need to do is determine whether or not you can afford hiring professional movers. We’re not going to lie to you. Although we offer some of the most competitive rates in the industry, moving can be expensive.
Determine The Number Of Movers You Need
In addition to the number of haulers, are there other factors that will impact the cost of a move?
Whether you’re relocating locally or long-distance, it’s important to consider several factors when shifting. The primary factors are the distance of the move, the size of your home, the total time involved, and the total weight of your items. Once we have determined these factors, there are several other factors to consider including:
- 3rd party insurance
- cost of fuel
- date of the move
- disassembling and re-assembling furniture
- liability and valuation coverage
- moving supplies
- packing and unpacking services
- storage (if needed)
Why should I hire professional transporter?
Regardless of how far you’re moving, we understand what a nerve-wracking job this can be. Yet most people feel that this is a job they can do by themselves. Unfortunately, that isn’t always the case. It is extremely stressful to plan your move and pack everything and then move it on your own. Granted, we may be biased just a bit, but it’s important to consider hiring professional transportors. Here are 5 reasons why:
- Experienced haulers are cost-effective than you might think.
- Professional movers have years of combined experience and expertise and have been thoroughly trained in all facets or residential moves.
- Expert shifters provide services that will save you valuable time.
- Transporters will ensure that your household items will arrive at your new location safely and undamaged.
- Most importantly, you’ll have peace of mind when hiring experienced hauler.
Are there any items you cannot or won’t move?
For a variety of reasons, there are certain items that we cannot move legally or won’t move because of the liability involved. To avoid any added stress, you’ll need to make arrangements to transport the following items:
- ammunition and fireworks
- combustible and flammable items
- hazardous materials
- perishable foods
- pets
- plants
- valuables
Where the above items are concerned, planning well enough in advance will help you avoid any last-minute headaches. For more information about determining the number of movers needed or getting a FREE estimate for the cost of your haul, call us at your earliest convenience. We will be available to answer your questions and help you plan your next shifting. Contact us today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most moves require 2–4 movers. A studio or one-bedroom typically needs 2 movers for 3–5 hours. A two- to three-bedroom home usually needs 3 movers, while four- to five-bedroom houses often require 4 movers. The final count is influenced by stairs, elevators, packing needs, heavy furniture, long carry distances, parking access, and whether the move is local or long-distance. For time-based jobs, see movers by the hour.
A one-bedroom apartment almost always needs 2 movers. This crew can safely handle beds, sofas, dressers, and boxes while keeping loading efficient. Expect 3–5 hours for a local move with standard access. Add a third mover if there are stairs, no elevator, long hallways, or large furniture like sectionals. Apartment-specific logistics are covered by apartment movers.
A three-bedroom house typically needs 3 movers. This crew balances speed and safety, especially when moving full living room sets, multiple beds, and appliances. Most local moves take 6–8 hours. A fourth mover may be recommended for two-story homes, garages, pianos, safes, or tight loading zones. Larger residential moves often align with full service movers.
In many cases, yes. More movers means fewer hours, which can lower the total bill even with a higher hourly rate. For example, 4 movers finishing in 5 hours may cost less than 2 movers taking 10 hours. This is especially true for larger homes, heavy items, or restricted access buildings. Cost tradeoffs are easier to compare using an average cost of movers calculator.
Long-distance moves usually use 3–4 movers for loading and unloading, regardless of distance. The crew size depends on home size, weight, packing services, and delivery schedule, not miles alone. Interstate moves follow FMCSA regulations, with structured loading windows and delivery ranges. For regulated state-to-state relocations, see long distance movers.
Yes. Stairs, walk-ups, and elevator reservations significantly affect crew size. A third mover is often added for third-floor walk-ups, narrow staircases, or freight elevator time limits. Buildings with short loading windows or long hallways also benefit from extra labor to avoid overtime charges and delays. These factors matter most for dense urban apartment moves handled by apartment movers.
Packing services usually add 1–2 additional movers or extend the crew’s hours. A two-bedroom home with packing often uses 3–4 movers to complete packing and loading in one day. The count increases with fragile items, kitchens, wardrobes, and specialty packing. Packing combined with loading is commonly handled by full service movers.
