When planning your move in Plano, TX, one of the first questions that comes to mind is:
“Do apartment movers charge by the hour or a flat rate?”
It’s a fair question — and one that can make a big difference in your budget.
Different moving companies use different pricing models, and understanding these upfront helps you avoid confusion or unexpected fees.
At The Move Place, we value transparency. In this guide, we’ll explain the difference between hourly and flat-rate pricing, how Plano movers determine their rates, and which option is best for your specific situation.
1. The Two Main Pricing Models for Movers
In Plano and across the Dallas–Fort Worth area, moving companies typically use one of two billing methods:
a) Hourly Rate
You pay based on the time it takes to complete your move.
Hourly rates depend on:
- Number of movers
- Truck size
- Day and time of move
- Distance between pickup and destination
Typical rates for local Plano apartment moves:
- 2 movers + truck: $110–$150/hour
- 3 movers + truck: $140–$180/hour
- 4 movers + truck: $180–$240/hour
This option is ideal for short-distance moves or small apartments where timing is predictable.
b) Flat Rate
A flat-rate move offers a single, all-inclusive price based on:
- Estimated inventory size (furniture, boxes, etc.)
- Total distance
- Access factors (stairs, elevators, parking)
- Special handling requirements
Flat rates are more common for long-distance or large apartment moves where hourly tracking isn’t practical.
The Move Place provides both options — hourly for local moves and flat-rate pricing for complex or long-distance relocations.
2. When Hourly Rates Make Sense
Hourly pricing is straightforward: you pay for the time your movers spend loading, driving, and unloading.
Best suited for:
- Local apartment moves within Plano or nearby cities (Frisco, Carrollton, Richardson, etc.)
- Short distances (under 25 miles)
- Smaller apartments (studio, 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom)
Pros:
- Transparent: you pay only for the time used
- Flexible: good for quick or same-day moves
- Ideal for local relocations
Cons:
- Unpredictable if there are delays (traffic, elevator access, etc.)
- May cost more for large or complicated moves
At The Move Place, our team ensures efficiency by optimizing routes and scheduling to reduce your total hours.
3. When Flat-Rate Pricing Works Best
Flat-rate pricing gives you a guaranteed total cost for your entire move, regardless of time.
Best suited for:
- Long-distance moves (more than 30 miles)
- Larger apartments or houses
- Clients who prefer a fixed budget
Pros:
- Predictable — no hourly surprises
- Easier to budget for
- Peace of mind if the move takes longer than expected
Cons:
- May be slightly higher than hourly if the move finishes early
- Requires accurate inventory details for a fair quote
Flat-rate pricing is ideal when you want certainty and convenience. At The Move Place, our experts provide precise quotes after evaluating your items and layout — ensuring fairness every time.
4. How Movers Calculate Hourly vs. Flat Rates
Let’s break down what actually goes into each pricing model.
| Factor | Hourly Rate | Flat Rate |
| Distance | Affects travel time | Calculated in total cost |
| Number of Movers | Impacts hourly charge | Included in flat quote |
| Apartment Size | Determines total hours | Determines total weight/volume |
| Packing Service | Adds hourly labor | Added as a one-time cost |
| Access (stairs/elevator) | May add time | Included in flat quote |
| Truck & Fuel | Built into rate | Built into rate |
Both models include essentials like:
- Moving truck and fuel
- Dollies, straps, and protective blankets
- Basic disassembly and reassembly of furniture
- Insurance and trained movers
The Move Place guarantees that whichever plan you choose, the price you see is the price you pay — no hidden extras.
5. Example Scenarios: Hourly vs. Flat Rate in Action
Scenario 1: Local Apartment Move (Hourly)
- 1-bedroom apartment in Plano
- Distance: 8 miles
- 2 movers + truck
- 3.5 hours total
Total: ~$500 (all-inclusive)
Perfect for small, local moves that finish quickly.
Scenario 2: Large 3-Bedroom Apartment (Flat Rate)
- Move from Plano to Frisco
- 3 movers + 26-ft truck
- 6 hours total, multiple stair trips
- Includes furniture wrapping and disassembly
Flat Rate: ~$1,250
Predictable, simple, and no hourly worries.
Scenario 3: Long-Distance Move (Flat Rate)
- Apartment move from Plano to Austin (~200 miles)
- 2 movers + truck
- Includes packing, loading, delivery
Flat Rate: ~$2,000
For long-distance moves, flat pricing ensures transparency from start to finish.
6. Benefits of Choosing the Right Model
Both hourly and flat-rate options have unique advantages depending on your priorities.
Choose hourly if you want:
Flexibility for a short, local move
Control over time and tasks
To save on smaller jobs
Choose flat-rate if you want:
A predictable total cost
No worries about delays
A stress-free, hands-off experience
At The Move Place, we help Plano customers choose the best option for their budget and timeline.
7. How to Get an Accurate Moving Quote
To avoid surprises, always request a detailed estimate before booking.
Here’s what you should prepare:
- Apartment size (studio, 1-bed, 2-bed, etc.)
- Pickup and delivery addresses
- List of large or special items (e.g., piano, safe)
- Photos or videos of rooms (optional but helpful)
- Your preferred move date and time
With this information, The Move Place provides transparent quotes for both hourly and flat-rate plans — so you can compare and decide confidently.
8. What’s Included with The Move Place
No matter which model you choose, every move includes:
- Professional, trained movers
- Clean, fully equipped moving trucks
- Protective padding and shrink wrap
- Furniture disassembly and reassembly
- Insurance coverage
- Honest pricing — no hidden fees ever
We also offer:
- Packing/Unpacking services
- Eco-friendly moving supplies
- Storage options for short or long term
9. How to Save Money on Your Plano Move
Pro Tips from The Move Place:
- Move mid-week (Tuesday–Thursday) for lower rates.
- Avoid peak summer months (May–August).
- Pack early to reduce total hourly time.
- Declutter before moving day — less stuff = faster move.
- Ask about special discounts for repeat customers or referrals.
10. Why Plano Residents Trust The Move Place
Plano is one of the fastest-growing cities in North Texas — and The Move Place has become the go-to choice for affordable, professional, and eco-conscious apartment moves.
Our reputation is built on:
- Transparent, upfront pricing
- Skilled movers with years of experience
- 24/7 online booking availability
- No hidden or surprise fees
- Courteous, customer-first service
We make moving simple — whether you’re heading across Plano or across Texas.
Conclusion: Hourly or Flat Rate — Choose What Works for You
So, do Plano apartment movers charge by the hour or flat rate?
Both — it depends on your needs.
If you’re moving locally, an hourly rate might be the most cost-effective.
If you’re moving farther or want budget certainty, a flat-rate move ensures peace of mind.
At The Move Place, we’ll help you choose the option that fits your budget, timeline, and comfort level — with zero stress and 100% transparency.
Call or Text (469) 777-6683 today for your personalized moving quote in Plano, TX.
Contact Information
Address: 2661 Midway Rd Suite 200 – Office 18, Carrollton, TX 75006
Call/Text: (469) 777-6683
Email: info@themoveplace.com
Hours: Sunday – Saturday, 7 AM – 7 PM
Online Booking: Open 24/7
