Every year, millions of people relocate for work, school, or a fresh start, and many of them need help with packing and moving. If you’re physically fit, organized, and enjoy hands-on work, offering moving and packing services can be a profitable side hustle or even a full-time business. Whether you work independently, partner with a local moving company, or sign up for a gig platform like U-Haul Moving Help or Bellhop, this industry offers flexible earning opportunities.
Moving can be one of the most stressful life events, and customers are willing to pay for reliable assistance. The job requires more than just strength—it also involves careful packing, efficient loading, and handling fragile items safely. With the right tools, pricing strategy, and marketing efforts, you can build a steady stream of clients and establish a thriving moving service.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about offering moving and packing services, from getting started to pricing your work, finding clients, and maximizing efficiency. Whether you want to earn extra cash on weekends or launch a full-scale moving business, this guide will help you get started.
1. Why Offer Moving and Packing Services?
Moving services are always in demand. Families, students, and professionals relocate frequently, and many of them either don’t have the time or the ability to move everything on their own. Offering moving and packing services gives you the chance to fill this gap and earn good money, all while staying active and working flexible hours.
Unlike many side hustles that require expensive equipment or specialized knowledge, moving and packing services have low startup costs. If you own a truck or van, you can increase your earnings by offering full-service moving. However, even if you don’t have a vehicle, you can still work as a labor-only mover, helping clients load, unload, and organize their belongings.
Another key benefit is the ability to charge premium rates. Moving services typically pay more per hour than other gig jobs due to the physical effort involved. On platforms like U-Haul Moving Help or Bellhop, movers can earn anywhere from $50 to $150 per hour, depending on location and experience. Independent movers can set their own rates and often earn even more.
There’s also a strong opportunity for upselling additional services. Many clients need packing assistance before moving day, furniture disassembly and reassembly, or post-move cleaning services. Offering bundled services can increase your income and help establish you as a go-to mover in your area. Providing moving supplies like boxes, tape, and padding materials as part of your service can also add extra profit.
Since moving is stressful for most people, clients appreciate professional, punctual, and careful movers. If you provide excellent customer service, you’ll likely receive repeat business, referrals, and five-star reviews, which can help you scale your business over time. Whether you want to work on weekends or build a full-time moving business, this is an industry with strong income potential.
Helpful Resources for Getting Started
- U-Haul Moving Help – Sign up to find moving jobs and get paid directly.
- Bellhop Movers – A platform that connects movers with clients for local and long-distance moves.
- Moving Business Startup Guide (Udemy) – Learn how to start and grow a moving business.
- Affordable Moving Supplies – Buy high-quality boxes, bubble wrap, and packing tape.
Starting a moving and packing service is an excellent way to earn a flexible income while providing a valuable service. In the next section, we’ll cover how to get started in the moving industry, whether you want to work for a platform, freelance independently, or launch your own moving business.
2. How to Get Started in the Moving Industry
Starting a moving and packing service can be as simple as offering your help to friends and family or as structured as launching a registered business. The path you choose depends on how much time you want to commit and whether you prefer working independently or through a platform. Regardless of your approach, there are key steps to getting started in the industry.
The easiest way to break into moving services is by working as a freelance mover through a gig platform. Websites like U-Haul Moving Help and Bellhop allow movers to connect with clients who need assistance. These platforms handle client bookings, payments, and reviews, making it easier to get started without investing in advertising. Many movers begin here to gain experience and build a reputation before branching out on their own.
If you prefer working independently, you can start by offering your services in local communities. Posting on platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Nextdoor can help you attract clients without paying platform fees. Local advertising, such as flyers in apartment complexes and storage units, can also generate leads. Once you have a few successful jobs under your belt, positive word-of-mouth will help your business grow.
For those interested in starting a moving company, registering as a legal business (LLC or sole proprietorship) is a smart move. This allows you to operate professionally, obtain business insurance, and even hire employees as your workload increases. Having an official business name and logo can also boost credibility and attract more high-paying clients.
Regardless of whether you work alone or with a team, investing in basic equipment will help you provide a smoother and more professional experience. Even as a labor-only mover, tools like furniture straps, gloves, and a dolly can prevent injuries and improve efficiency. If you have a truck or van, offering full-service moving packages can significantly increase your income.
Best Platforms & Tools for Getting Started
- U-Haul Moving Help – A gig platform that connects freelance movers with customers.
- Bellhop – A moving platform offering jobs for independent movers.
- Facebook Marketplace – Free platform to list moving services and connect with local clients.
- LegalZoom – Helps register an LLC for those starting a moving business.
- Heavy-Duty Dolly – Makes transporting heavy items easier and safer.
- Lifting Straps – Reduces strain on your back when lifting furniture.
By choosing the right approach—whether joining a platform, freelancing, or starting a business—you can build a profitable moving service. In the next section, we’ll discuss the essential equipment you need to work efficiently and safely.
3. Essential Equipment for Movers and Packers
Having the right equipment is crucial for efficiency, safety, and professionalism in the moving industry. Whether you’re offering full-service moving, labor-only assistance, or packing services, investing in high-quality tools will save time, reduce injury risks, and improve customer satisfaction. Clients are more likely to trust and recommend a mover who arrives prepared with the necessary equipment.
The most important tool for any mover is a heavy-duty dolly. A two-wheel hand truck is excellent for moving boxes and appliances, while a four-wheel furniture dolly is ideal for heavier furniture. Using a dolly not only prevents injuries but also speeds up loading and unloading, allowing you to complete more jobs in less time. If you’re handling large or heavy items, a stair-climbing dolly can make the process much easier when moving items up or down flights of stairs.
Lifting straps and forearm forklifts are essential for moving bulky items like dressers, mattresses, and refrigerators. These tools help distribute weight more evenly, reducing strain on your back and minimizing the risk of dropping heavy items. Many professional movers rely on shoulder dolly lifting systems, which use leverage to make carrying large objects safer and easier.
To protect customers’ belongings, moving blankets and stretch wrap are must-haves. Moving blankets prevent scratches and dents on furniture, while stretch wrap secures items like drawers and cabinet doors to keep them from swinging open during transport. Packing tape, bubble wrap, and cardboard boxes are also necessary if you’re offering packing services.
For full-service movers with a truck or van, ratchet straps and bungee cords help secure furniture and boxes to prevent shifting during transit. A toolkit with screwdrivers, hex keys, and a cordless drill is also useful for assembling and disassembling furniture, as many clients need beds, desks, and shelving units taken apart before moving.
Safety gear is just as important as moving tools. Work gloves protect your hands from splinters, sharp edges, and rough surfaces, while steel-toe boots provide foot protection when handling heavy objects. A back support belt can also reduce strain, especially during long moving days. Investing in the right gear will not only protect your body but also ensure you’re working efficiently.
Must-Have Moving Equipment
- Heavy-Duty Hand Truck Dolly – Essential for moving boxes and appliances with ease.
- Four-Wheel Furniture Dolly – Perfect for transporting heavy furniture safely.
- Forearm Forklift Lifting Straps – Helps carry heavy objects with less strain on your back.
- Moving Blankets – Protects furniture and appliances from scratches and damage.
- Stretch Wrap – Secures furniture and drawers to prevent shifting.
- Ratchet Straps – Keeps items in place during transportation.
- Work Gloves – Protects hands from sharp edges and rough surfaces.
- Basic Toolkit – Essential for furniture assembly and disassembly.
- Back Support Belt – Reduces strain and improves lifting posture.
Having the right equipment will not only make your job easier but also demonstrate professionalism to clients, leading to better reviews and repeat business. In the next section, we’ll cover how to price your moving services competitively while maximizing your earnings.
4. Pricing Your Moving Services
Setting the right price for your moving and packing services is essential for attracting customers while ensuring that your time and effort are properly compensated. Charge too little, and you’ll overwork yourself for minimal profit. Charge too much, and you may struggle to find clients—especially when competing against established movers. A well-thought-out pricing strategy will help you remain competitive while maximizing earnings.
There are several pricing models to consider, depending on the type of service you provide. The most common options include hourly rates, flat rates per job, and per-mile pricing for long-distance moves. Many independent movers start with an hourly model, charging anywhere from $40 to $100 per hour per mover, depending on the location and complexity of the job. In high-demand cities, professional movers often charge $75 to $150 per hour for full-service moving, including truck rental and packing assistance.
For smaller jobs like packing, furniture moving within a home, or labor-only assistance, it’s common to charge a minimum two-hour rate to ensure that short tasks remain profitable. For example, if your hourly rate is $50, you might set a $100 minimum job fee. This ensures your time is valued, even if the job takes less than an hour.
Flat-rate pricing works well for jobs where the workload is predictable, such as moving a studio apartment or packing a specific number of boxes. For example, you might charge $250 to $500 for a one-bedroom apartment move, depending on the amount of furniture and distance involved. Flat rates can be attractive to customers who prefer upfront pricing rather than hourly estimates.
If you’re offering long-distance moving services, consider per-mile pricing in addition to a base labor fee. Many movers charge around $1 to $3 per mile, plus an hourly loading and unloading rate. Be sure to factor in expenses like fuel, vehicle wear and tear, and potential lodging if an overnight trip is required.
It’s also important to consider upsell opportunities when pricing your services. Packing materials, furniture disassembly, and same-day or last-minute booking fees can all increase your earnings. Some movers charge $5 to $10 per box packed, while others include a 15-20% surcharge for last-minute bookings. If you provide moving supplies like boxes, tape, and protective padding, bundle these into your service for additional profit.
Resources for Setting Competitive Rates
- Thumbtack Moving Price Guide – Average moving rates based on location and job size.
- Freelance Hourly Rate Calculator – Helps determine fair hourly pricing.
- Guide to Setting Hourly Rates – Step-by-step process to calculate profitable rates.
- Professional Invoice Templates – Free invoicing tools for billing clients outside of platforms.
- U-Haul Moving Cost Estimates – Insights into industry-standard moving costs.
By choosing the right pricing model and offering strategic upsells, you can ensure that your moving and packing services remain both competitive and profitable. In the next section, we’ll discuss how to find clients and get five-star reviews to build a steady flow of work.
5. Finding Clients & Getting Five-Star Reviews
Getting consistent clients is key to turning your moving and packing services into a profitable business. While word-of-mouth referrals play a significant role, you also need to actively market yourself, build credibility, and encourage customer reviews. The more five-star reviews you have, the easier it will be to attract new customers and justify higher rates.
Start by listing your services on multiple platforms to maximize exposure. Websites like U-Haul Moving Help, Bellhop, and TaskRabbit allow independent movers to connect with clients. Additionally, posting on local community boards like Facebook Marketplace, Nextdoor, and Craigslist can help attract people looking for affordable, local moving help.
Having an optimized online presence is just as important. A Google My Business listing ensures that your services appear in local search results when people look for movers in your area. Setting up a simple website with customer testimonials, a list of services, and pricing options can also make your business appear more professional. Even a basic Wix or Squarespace site can be enough to showcase your experience.
Encouraging reviews is crucial for standing out in a competitive market. Many satisfied clients simply forget to leave a review, so it’s helpful to send a follow-up message after a job. A polite, professional request like “Thank you for choosing me for your move! If you were happy with the service, I’d appreciate it if you could leave a quick review on [platform] to help others find my services.” can make a big difference.
Networking with real estate agents, property managers, and storage facility owners can also lead to consistent work. These professionals often know people who are moving and need packing or transportation help. Offering discounts for referrals or establishing partnerships with local businesses can help generate a steady stream of clients.
Best Platforms & Tools for Finding Clients
- U-Haul Moving Help – A great platform for independent movers to find local jobs.
- Bellhop – Helps movers get consistent bookings and better pay.
- Facebook Marketplace – Free platform to advertise services and connect with customers.
- Nextdoor – A great way to market local moving services to homeowners and renters.
- Google My Business – Increases visibility in local search results.
- Wix Website Builder – Easy-to-use platform for creating a professional moving service website.
By strategically listing your services, networking, and encouraging reviews, you can build a strong client base and ensure a steady flow of work. In the next section, we’ll cover packing strategies to maximize efficiency and protect items during a move.
6. Packing Strategies for Maximum Efficiency
Packing is one of the most time-consuming parts of moving, and doing it efficiently can make a huge difference for both you and your clients. Proper packing prevents damage, saves space, and makes loading and unloading much easier. Whether you’re packing for a full-service move or just offering packing assistance, using smart strategies will increase your professionalism and help you complete jobs faster.
The first rule of efficient packing is categorization and labeling. Group similar items together and label boxes clearly based on their contents and destination (e.g., “Kitchen – Glassware” or “Bedroom – Clothes”). This makes unpacking easier and helps ensure that fragile items are handled with extra care. Using color-coded labels or stickers can also speed up the unloading process by showing at a glance which boxes belong in which rooms.
For fragile items, proper wrapping and cushioning are essential. Dishes, glassware, and electronics should be wrapped in bubble wrap, packing paper, or soft towels to prevent breakage. Double-boxing fragile items—placing a smaller box inside a larger one with cushioning in between—adds extra protection. Packing peanuts and air pillows are useful for filling empty spaces in boxes, keeping items from shifting during transport.
To save space and reduce box count, use vacuum-sealed storage bags for clothing, bedding, and pillows. Rolling clothes instead of folding them also maximizes space and minimizes wrinkles. Heavy items like books should be packed in small boxes to make them easier to lift, while lighter items can go into larger boxes.
Efficiency also comes down to how you load boxes into a moving truck or van. Heavier, sturdier boxes should go on the bottom, with lighter and more delicate boxes stacked on top. For quick access, important items like essentials boxes (toiletries, medications, a change of clothes) should be packed separately and loaded last so they can be easily retrieved at the destination.
Best Packing Supplies for a Smooth Move
- Heavy-Duty Moving Boxes – Sturdy, reinforced boxes that can handle heavier items.
- Bubble Wrap Roll – Essential for protecting fragile items like glassware and electronics.
- Packing Paper – A must-have for wrapping delicate items safely.
- Packing Peanuts – Great for filling empty spaces and preventing shifting.
- Vacuum-Sealed Storage Bags – Maximizes space for clothes, blankets, and bedding.
- Color-Coded Moving Labels – Helps organize boxes by room for easy unpacking.
- Packing Tape & Dispenser – A high-quality tape gun speeds up the sealing process.
By using smart packing techniques and investing in high-quality supplies, you can ensure that items arrive safely and efficiently. In the next section, we’ll cover how to avoid injuries and practice safe lifting techniques to prevent strain and accidents.
7. Avoiding Injuries & Practicing Safe Lifting
Moving heavy furniture and boxes can put significant strain on your body, leading to injuries if proper lifting techniques aren’t followed. As a mover, your health is your most valuable asset—practicing safe lifting techniques, using assistive equipment, and taking breaks when needed will help you stay injury-free and productive.
The most important lifting rule is “Lift with your legs, not your back.” Bending at the knees and keeping your back straight reduces pressure on your spine and lowers the risk of strains. When lifting, hold the item close to your body to maintain better control and stability. Avoid twisting your body while carrying heavy objects; instead, turn with your feet to reduce stress on your lower back.
For large or awkwardly shaped items, using lifting straps or a shoulder dolly can significantly reduce strain. These tools help distribute weight evenly across your body, making it easier to handle bulky furniture or appliances. If a piece is too heavy to lift alone, always work with a partner and communicate clearly to prevent accidents.
Proper footwear is essential when moving. Wearing steel-toe boots or non-slip shoes can prevent foot injuries if a heavy object is dropped. Gloves also provide better grip and protect your hands from splinters, sharp edges, or rough surfaces. A back support belt is a great investment for movers handling heavy loads regularly, as it provides extra stability and reduces muscle strain.
In addition to lifting safely, hydration and breaks are crucial, especially during long moving jobs. Moving is physically demanding, and dehydration can lead to fatigue, dizziness, and muscle cramps. Take short breaks every hour, stretch before and after lifting, and listen to your body to prevent overexertion.
Lastly, using moving equipment like dollies, hand trucks, and sliders can significantly reduce the amount of manual lifting required. Instead of carrying a heavy dresser, place it on a furniture dolly and roll it to the truck. Sliders are useful for moving items across hardwood floors or carpet without heavy lifting, and hand trucks make it easy to transport multiple boxes at once.
Essential Safety Gear & Equipment for Movers
- Lifting Straps – Reduces strain and makes moving heavy furniture safer.
- Shoulder Dolly – Helps lift and balance heavy objects with ease.
- Steel-Toe Boots – Protects feet from dropped items and provides better grip.
- Heavy-Duty Work Gloves – Improves grip and protects hands from sharp edges.
- Back Support Belt – Reduces lower back strain when lifting heavy objects.
- Furniture Sliders – Makes moving heavy items across floors effortless.
- Heavy-Duty Moving Dolly – Reduces the need for manual lifting.
Practicing proper lifting techniques and using assistive tools will keep you injury-free and allow you to take on more moving jobs without putting your health at risk. In the next section, we’ll explore how to expand your services beyond moving and packing, such as offering junk removal or storage solutions.
8. Expanding Your Services: From Moving to Junk Removal
Once you’ve established yourself in the moving and packing industry, expanding into junk removal, storage assistance, or furniture disposal can significantly increase your income. Many clients who need moving help also have items they want to discard, and offering an additional service for removal or storage coordination can set you apart from competitors.
Junk removal is one of the most profitable add-on services for movers. Whether clients are downsizing, clearing out old furniture, or getting rid of packing materials, they often need assistance hauling items to landfills, donation centers, or recycling facilities. You can offer junk removal as a standalone service or bundle it with moving jobs for an extra fee. For example, charging $50-$100 per load to remove unwanted furniture or appliances can be an easy way to boost your earnings.
If you have access to a truck or van, consider offering storage transportation services. Some clients need assistance moving items to self-storage units before relocating to their new home. Partnering with local storage facilities and advertising your services at their locations can lead to consistent business. Platforms like PODS and U-Haul U-Box also allow movers to offer portable storage solutions.
Another in-demand service is furniture assembly and disassembly. Some customers need help taking apart large furniture items before moving, while others may want their furniture reassembled at the new location. Charging $30-$75 per furniture piece for assembly or disassembly can add a valuable income stream. Keeping a basic toolkit with screwdrivers, wrenches, and a power drill ensures you can offer this service efficiently.
Clients also appreciate eco-friendly disposal options. Instead of simply throwing everything away, offer to take unwanted furniture or appliances to charity donation centers or recycling facilities. Many organizations like Habitat for Humanity ReStores accept furniture donations, and scrap metal recyclers may pay for old appliances. Advertising eco-conscious removal services can attract environmentally aware customers.
Essential Equipment for Junk Removal & Storage Assistance
- Heavy-Duty Utility Truck – Ideal for hauling away junk or transporting items to storage.
- Furniture Disassembly Toolkit – A must-have for taking apart large furniture.
- Recycling & Trash Bags – Essential for sorting and disposing of waste materials.
- Donation Boxes – Great for organizing items for charity drop-off.
- PODS Storage Services – A portable storage solution for clients needing temporary storage.
- U-Haul U-Box – A flexible storage and moving option for extra income.
Expanding beyond moving services into junk removal and storage assistance can diversify your income streams and make your business more competitive. In the final section, we’ll discuss scaling your business, getting repeat clients, and transitioning from a side hustle to a full-time moving service.
9. Final Thoughts & Scaling Your Business
What starts as a side hustle offering moving and packing services can grow into a full-scale, highly profitable business with the right strategy. The moving industry has consistent demand, and by refining your services, attracting repeat customers, and scaling smartly, you can turn this into a sustainable career.
One of the best ways to scale is by building a strong reputation and retaining customers. Repeat business and referrals can generate steady income, so focus on providing excellent service, clear communication, and reliability. Offering discounts to returning clients or referral incentives can help grow your network.
If you’re currently working alone, consider hiring additional movers as demand increases. Bringing on extra help allows you to take on more jobs without overworking yourself. Start by hiring freelancers or part-time helpers, and as your income grows, you can transition to a structured business model with employees.
Another way to scale is by branding and marketing your services professionally. Having a business website, custom uniforms, and a branded vehicle can make you stand out. A simple website through Wix or Squarespace, combined with a Google My Business listing, will make it easier for potential customers to find and trust your services.
To increase profits, consider partnering with real estate agents, apartment complexes, and storage facilities. These professionals frequently encounter people who need moving help and can refer clients your way. Establishing business-to-business partnerships can provide a steady stream of work.
Finally, expanding services is a great way to boost income. Offering junk removal, storage solutions, furniture assembly, or even last-minute emergency moving services can make your business a one-stop shop for customers. The more solutions you provide, the higher your earning potential.
Resources for Growing a Moving Business
- Wix Website Builder – Create a professional website to attract customers.
- Google My Business – Get listed in local searches for moving services.
- Freelancer Rate Calculator – Helps set profitable pricing.
- LegalZoom – Register an LLC to make your moving business official.
- Custom Mover Uniforms – Build brand identity with a professional look.
- TaskRabbit – Another platform to gain moving clients as you build your business.
Scaling your moving and packing services into a full-fledged business requires effort and planning, but with the right approach, you can create a steady, lucrative income. Whether you continue as a freelancer or start a registered company, focusing on professionalism, efficiency, and customer satisfaction will ensure long-term success.
Now it’s your turn! Start offering moving and packing services today, and take control of your income and schedule.
