Choosing between full-service movers and a DIY truck rental is one of the biggest cost decisions you’ll make. Full-service costs more but saves time and labor. DIY costs less but you do the work. This guide compares both options so you can decide what fits your budget and situation.

Full-Service Moving: What It Costs

Full-service means the mover packs, loads, transports, and unloads your belongings. You may also get packing materials and full-value protection. Cost depends on home size, distance, and add-ons. For typical ranges by home size, see our article on average moving costs by home size.

Home Size	Local (Typical Range)	Long-Distance 500 mi (Typical Range)
Studio	$300–$600	$800–$1,500
1 Bedroom	$400–$800	$1,200–$2,200
2 Bedrooms	$500–$1,200	$1,800–$3,500
3 Bedrooms	$700–$1,600	$2,500–$5,000
4+ Bedrooms	$1,000–$2,500+	$3,500–$7,000+

Add packing ($400–$1,500+) and other add-ons for full-service. Use our moving cost calculator for a quick estimate.

DIY Truck Rental: What It Costs

DIY means you rent a truck (or use a container service), load it yourself, drive it, and unload it. You may hire help for loading and unloading. Major rental companies include U-Haul, Budget, and Penske.

Move Type	Truck Rental (Base)	With Movers (Load/Unload Only)
Local (in-town)	$150–$400	$400–$800
One-way (500 mi)	$500–$1,200	$1,000–$2,000
One-way (1,000 mi)	$1,000–$2,000	$1,500–$2,500

Rental costs include the truck, mileage (for one-way), and sometimes a dolly or pads. Gas is extra. Moving help (labor-only services) adds cost but reduces the physical work. For more on add-on costs, see our add-on services guide.

Side-by-Side Cost Comparison

For a 2-bedroom local move (same city):

Option	Typical Cost	What You Get
Full-service movers	$500–$1,200	Load, transport, unload; you pack
Full-service + packing	$1,000–$2,200	Everything included
DIY truck only	$150–$400	You do everything
DIY + labor help	$400–$800	You pack and drive; helpers load/unload

For a 2-bedroom long-distance move (500 miles):

Option	Typical Cost	What You Get
Full-service movers	$1,800–$3,500	Load, transport, unload; you pack
Full-service + packing	$2,300–$4,500	Everything included
DIY truck only	$500–$1,200	You do everything
DIY + labor help both ends	$1,000–$2,000	You pack and drive; helpers load/unload

When DIY Makes Sense

• Local move, small home: A studio or 1-bedroom local move can cost $150–$400 with a rental versus $300–$800 with movers. DIY often wins on cost.
• You have help: Friends or family can load and unload. That cuts labor cost to zero.
• Budget is tight: DIY is usually the cheapest option if you can handle the physical work.
• Not much to move: Few items mean less work. A truck rental is simple for a minimal move.

When Full-Service Makes Sense

• Long-distance move: Driving a large truck cross-country is tiring and time-consuming. Full-service lets you fly or drive your car while the mover handles the truck.
• Large home or heavy items: 3+ bedrooms, pianos, or lots of furniture make DIY hard. Movers have equipment and experience.
• No help available: If you can’t recruit helpers, full-service avoids the risk of injury and stress.
• Time is limited: Full-service is faster. You can focus on other aspects of the move.

Hybrid Option: Labor-Only Help

You rent the truck and drive it, but hire movers for loading and unloading only. Services like U-Haul’s Moving Help or task-based apps connect you with labor. This can cost $200–$400 per end for a 2-bedroom. You save compared to full-service but avoid doing all the heavy lifting. It’s a middle ground between DIY and full-service.

Hidden Costs to Factor In

For DIY: truck rental, mileage, gas, packing supplies, tolls, and possibly lodging if it’s a long drive. For full-service: add-ons like packing, stairs, long carries, and full-value protection. See our guide on hidden moving costs so you don’t miss anything. Use our budgeting worksheet to add it all up.

Summary

DIY is usually cheaper for local moves and small homes. Full-service makes more sense for long-distance moves, large homes, or when you lack time or help. Compare both options using real quotes and our calculator, and factor in your own labor and stress. For more ways to save either way, see our saving money tips.