When planning a move, this is the first thing that comes to mind (and something we hear a lot!). The big question is always the same: Should I do it myself or hire a moving company?
At first glance, DIY might seem like the obvious money saver. But once you start adding up the effort, time, equipment, and unexpected stress, hiring professional movers can become a surprising smart investment.
Let’s break down the pros and cons of each option so you can choose what makes sense for your move.
The DIY MOVE: Budget-Friendly, But Hard Work
If you’re up for a challenge, have a few strong mates on call and are only moving a small amount of stuff, the DIY route could work for you.
Pros of a DIY Move:
- Lower upfront cost: You’ll typically only pay for a van or truck hire, fuel, and some packing materials.
- More control: You’re in charge of your schedule and how your items are handled.
- Good for small moves: If you’re just shifting a few boxes across town, it might be quicker to do it yourself.
Cons of a DIY Move:
- Physically exhausting: Moving heavy furniture, navigating tight staircases, and loading a truck isn’t for the faint-hearted.
- Takes longer than you think: Without experience, even small moves can turn into long, tiring days.
- Risk of damage or injury: No insurance if a TV gets smashed or someone strains their back.
- Relies on your crew: Friends helping is great – until someone cancels or drops your fridge.
DIY Moves Are Best For:
- Studio or one-bedroom moves.
- People on a tight budget
- Those with time, energy, and a few strong helpers.
Hiring Professional Movers: Stress-Free & Efficient
Hiring movers means handing off the heavy lifting and logistics to people who do this every day. And that comes with real advantages.
Pros of Hiring Movers:
- Less physical and mental stress: You won’t need to lift a thing (unless you want to).
- Faster and more efficient: Movers know how to pack, load, and transport everything safely and quickly.
- Experienced handling of fragile or bulky items: No scratched walls or broken furniture.
- Insurance coverage included: If something gets damaged, you’re covered.
- Extra services available: Some companies offer packing, unpacking, furniture disassembly, cleaning and more.
Cons of Hiring Movers:
- Higher upfront costs: Professional services come at a premium (though often not as much as people assume).
- Need to book in advance: Movers can book out quickly during weekends and end-of-month dates.
It’s Best to Hire Movers For:
- Moves involving large homes, businesses or lots of furniture,
- Busy professionals, families, or people with mobility issues.
- Anyone wanting to move – without the stress.
What About Cost?
Moving yourself can appear cheaper, but many people forget to factor in:
- Van/truck hire
- Fuel
- Trolley/dolly or ramp hire
- Boxes, tape, blankets, straps
- Time of work
- Food for the crew
- Potential costs of damages or injuries
Once you total that all up, hiring professionals might not be as expensive as it seems – especially when you consider the time and stress you’ll save.
So, Which Ones Right for You?
If you’re doing a light move, have reliable help, and don’t mind a challenge, a DIY move can absolutely work.
But if you’re after efficiency, reliability, and peace of mind, hiring professional movers is often worth every cent. Plus, your back will thank you!
Need Advice or a Quick Quote?
We’re happy to give honest advice based on your move, even if that means saying, “You could probably do this one yourself.”
Ready to see how easy your move could be with the right team behind it? Fill out our free quote form and we’ll be in touch!
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