When planning your next apartment move in Plano, TX, one of the most important decisions you’ll face is choosing between full-service movers and labor-only movers.
While both provide valuable services, they cater to very different needs and budgets. Understanding how each option works — and what’s included — can help you make the smartest, most cost-effective choice for your upcoming move.
At The Move Place, we’ve helped countless Plano residents simplify their apartment relocations by matching the right service type to their exact situation. Let’s explore the key differences so you can decide what’s best for your move.
1. What Is a Full-Service Move?
A full-service move means the moving company handles everything from start to finish. You simply sit back while professionals manage every detail.
What’s Included:
- Packing and labeling all your belongings
- Disassembly and reassembly of furniture
- Loading and unloading the moving truck
- Transportation between locations
- Unpacking and organizing at your new apartment
- Optional storage solutions if your move-in is delayed
The Move Place Example:
Our full-service apartment moving package is ideal for busy professionals, families, or seniors who want a stress-free experience with complete handling by trained movers.
Benefits of Full-Service Movers:
Saves time and effort
Reduces risk of damage or injury
Professional packing ensures safety of fragile items
One-stop convenience — all logistics handled
Great for local or long-distance moves
Best For:
- People relocating large apartments
- Customers with tight schedules
- Moves involving heavy furniture or multiple flights of stairs
2. What Is a Labor-Only Move?
A labor-only move focuses on providing skilled manpower without a moving truck or packing materials.
You provide the truck, van, or trailer — and the movers handle the physical labor: loading, unloading, or rearranging furniture.
What’s Included:
- Loading or unloading rental trucks (U-Haul, Penske, Budget, etc.)
- Moving heavy furniture within your apartment
- Rearranging rooms or transferring items to storage
- Assisting with DIY moves or short-distance relocations
The Move Place Example:
Our labor-only movers are trained professionals who can load your truck safely and efficiently — preventing costly damages or back injuries.
Benefits of Labor-Only Movers:
Budget-friendly — pay only for labor hours
Flexible — use your own vehicle or rental
Ideal for small apartments or single-room moves
You stay in control of transportation logistics
Best For:
- DIY movers
- Students or renters on a budget
- Short-distance apartment-to-apartment relocations
3. Cost Comparison: Full-Service vs. Labor-Only
Pricing is one of the biggest differences between these two services.
| Feature | Full-Service Movers | Labor-Only Movers |
| Truck Included | Yes | No |
| Packing Materials | Yes | No |
| Furniture Disassembly/Reassembly | Included | Optional |
| Loading/Unloading | Included | Included |
| Storage Options | Available | No |
| Insurance Coverage | Higher coverage | Limited liability |
| Average Cost (Local Move) | 400–$1,000+ | $150–$400 |
Insight:
Full-service movers cost more upfront but include everything you need. Labor-only movers are cheaper but require more DIY coordination.
4. Time and Convenience: Which Option Saves More Time?
If your main goal is speed and convenience, full-service movers clearly have the advantage.
They handle packing, transportation, and unpacking in a single coordinated effort. You can focus on work, family, or simply enjoying a stress-free move day.
Labor-only movers save time on physical labor but still require you to:
- Rent and return a moving truck
- Drive between locations
- Manage loading/unloading schedules
Customer Insight:
Plano residents often combine both — hiring The Move Place for labor-only assistance when they’ve already rented a truck, or opting for full-service when they want everything handled seamlessly.
5. Insurance and Liability Coverage
Insurance coverage varies significantly between full-service and labor-only movers.
Full-Service Movers:
- Provide comprehensive liability and cargo insurance.
- Cover damages during packing, loading, transport, and unloading.
- Offer optional Full Value Protection (replacement value coverage).
Labor-Only Movers:
- Provide limited basic liability — usually $0.60 per pound per item.
- You’re responsible for items once they leave the mover’s care (especially during transit).
Tip:
If you choose a labor-only move, check whether your rental truck or home insurance covers damage during transportation.
6. Control and Flexibility
With full-service movers, you hand over control for maximum convenience. With labor-only movers, you retain more involvement.
| Aspect | Full-Service Move | Labor-Only Move |
| Control Over Packing | Low | High |
| Schedule Flexibility | Moderate | High |
| DIY Involvement | Minimal | Full control |
| Risk of Mistakes | Low (professionals handle) | Higher (depends on experience) |
The Move Place Insight:
Many of our Plano clients appreciate the flexibility of labor-only service for partial moves or temporary relocations — while choosing full-service for long-term or high-value moves.
7. Which Option Is Right for You?
Choosing between full-service and labor-only movers depends on budget, time, and personal preference.
Ask yourself:
- Do I want to handle any part of the move myself?
- Do I have time to rent and return a truck?
- Are my items heavy, fragile, or expensive?
- Is convenience or cost my top priority?
Quick Recommendation:
- Choose Full-Service if you want everything handled from packing to unpacking.
- Choose Labor-Only if you already have a truck and just need strong, professional movers.
8. Why Plano Residents Choose The Move Place
The Move Place offers both full-service and labor-only apartment moving solutions designed for flexibility, efficiency, and peace of mind.
Licensed and insured movers
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
Flexible scheduling — available 7 days a week
Trained professionals for delicate furniture and heavy items
24/7 online booking for fast convenience
“The Move Place made our move effortless — they packed, moved, and unpacked everything perfectly!”
“I rented my own U-Haul, and their labor-only crew handled loading and unloading like pros.”
No matter your budget or needs, we make sure your apartment move is smooth, safe, and stress-free.
9. Expert Advice: Combining Both Services
Some customers combine both services for a hybrid move.
Example:
- Hire labor-only movers for loading a truck in Plano.
- Drive your truck to your new apartment.
- Hire another labor-only crew for unloading.
Or, if you’re pressed for time:
- Hire full-service movers for packing and transport.
- Use labor-only movers for furniture rearranging or additional help at destination.
The Move Place can customize your moving package to include partial or full-service based on your timeline and budget.
10. Final Thoughts: Choosing Smart, Moving Easy
So, what are the key differences between full-service and labor-only apartment movers in Plano?
It all comes down to how much help you need, how much time you have, and how much control you want.
- Full-Service Movers = Maximum convenience and peace of mind.
- Labor-Only Movers = Budget-friendly, flexible, and efficient.
At The Move Place, we deliver both options with equal professionalism and care — ensuring every Plano customer experiences a safe, smooth, and satisfying move.
Call or Text (469) 777-6683 today for a free quote or to customize your moving plan with The Move Place, your trusted local Plano movers.
Contact Information
Address: 2661 Midway Rd Suite 200 – Office 18, Carrollton, TX 75006
Phone/Text: (469) 777-6683
Email: info@themoveplace.com
Hours: Sunday–Saturday, 7 AM–7 PM
Online Booking: Open 24/7
