If you’re planning an apartment move in Plano, TX, one of the first questions you’re likely asking is:
“What determines the total cost of my move?”
While many moving companies advertise flat or hourly rates, the final price depends on a combination of factors — from how much you’re moving to when and where. Understanding these key elements can help you plan ahead, compare quotes accurately, and avoid surprises on moving day.
At The Move Place, we’ve handled hundreds of apartment moves across Plano and the Dallas–Fort Worth area. In this guide, we’ll break down the top factors that influence apartment moving costs in Plano, TX, and show how to keep your relocation affordable and stress-free.
1. Apartment Size and Volume of Belongings
The size of your apartment is one of the biggest cost drivers.
- Studio or 1-Bedroom: Smaller spaces usually require 2 movers and take 2–4 hours.
- 2-Bedroom: Typically needs 3 movers and takes 4–6 hours.
- 3-Bedroom or Townhome: May require 3–4 movers and 6–8 hours.
Each additional room means more furniture, boxes, and packing materials — which adds time and labor.
Example:
A one-bedroom apartment might cost $400–$600, while a three-bedroom apartment could range from $1,200–$1,800.
Tip: Decluttering before your move can significantly reduce both labor and truck space, lowering your total cost.
2. Distance Between Locations
Another major factor is how far your movers need to travel.
Plano’s central location makes local moves convenient, but pricing structures vary:
- Local Moves (within 25 miles): Charged hourly, including loading, driving, and unloading time.
- Long-Distance Moves (beyond 50–100 miles): Priced by mileage, weight, and total time.
For example, moving from one side of Plano to the other is much cheaper than relocating from Plano to Austin or Houston.
The Move Place offers transparent local and long-distance pricing so you always know what’s included.
3. Accessibility: Stairs, Elevators, and Parking Distance
Access plays a big role in determining labor time — and therefore cost.
If movers need to carry boxes up multiple flights of stairs or walk long distances from the truck to your apartment, it adds extra time.
Common access-related fees include:
- Stair Carry Fees: For moves without elevator access
- Long Carry Fees: When the truck must park more than 75 feet away from your door
- Elevator Wait Time: In busy buildings with shared lifts
These costs aren’t “hidden” — they simply compensate for additional time and effort.
Pro Tip: Secure parking or elevator reservations with your apartment management in advance to keep your move on schedule (and on budget).
4. Packing and Unpacking Services
Do you want your movers to pack everything for you, or will you do it yourself?
Full-service packing saves you time but adds to total cost due to materials and labor.
Self-packing is cheaper but more time-intensive for you.
At The Move Place, we offer flexible packing options:
- Full Service: Movers pack, label, and protect everything.
- Partial Service: We pack fragile or bulky items only.
- Eco-Friendly Bins: Reusable boxes that reduce waste and save money.
Packing charges usually depend on the number of boxes and type of materials used.
5. Specialty or Heavy Items
Some items require special handling due to weight, fragility, or value. Examples include:
- Pianos
- Safes
- Gym equipment
- Glass tables or artwork
- Large appliances
These items often require additional crew members or specialized equipment, which can influence your total.
Example: A heavy safe or piano may add $75–$150, depending on complexity.
The Move Place provides clear itemized pricing so you’ll always know in advance if an extra charge applies.
6. Timing of Your Move
When you move can be just as important as where and how.
Peak moving seasons (May–August) are in high demand, especially in Plano’s active rental market. Rates may rise slightly during weekends and the end/beginning of each month.
To save money, consider:
- Mid-week moves (Tuesday–Thursday)
- Mid-month scheduling (avoiding 1st and 30th)
- Off-season months (October–February)
Booking early ensures availability and often locks in lower rates.
7. Additional Services and Supplies
Your final quote may include optional services such as:
- Furniture assembly/disassembly
- Appliance connections
- Storage solutions
- Protective wrapping
These services add convenience but also increase time and cost slightly.
At The Move Place, many of these essentials — like basic disassembly and furniture padding — are already included in our standard service, at no extra cost.
8. Insurance and Liability Coverage
While professional movers handle your belongings with care, accidents can happen.
Most Plano movers offer basic coverage included in your quote, but you can upgrade for added protection depending on item value.
Types of coverage:
- Basic Liability: Covers a small amount per pound (usually included).
- Full Value Protection: Covers replacement or repair at full value (optional).
We recommend confirming your coverage in writing to avoid misunderstandings later.
9. Storage or Temporary Holding
If your move-out and move-in dates don’t align, you may need short-term storage.
Plano residents often use storage while waiting for new leases, renovations, or closing dates. The Move Place offers secure, climate-controlled storage units available daily, weekly, or monthly — competitively priced and conveniently located near Carrollton and Plano.
10. Hidden or Avoidable Fees
While The Move Place is fully transparent, it’s important to know what to watch for with other companies.
Common hidden fees from less reputable movers may include:
- Fuel surcharges
- Truck or equipment rental add-ons
- Travel time not included in quote
- “Last-minute” rescheduling fees
Always ask for a written estimate that lists every possible charge before confirming your booking.
11. Example Breakdown: Typical Apartment Move in Plano
Let’s look at a real-world example:
Scenario:
- 2-Bedroom apartment, 2nd floor with elevator
- 10-mile distance
- Includes basic furniture and 40 boxes
Estimated Costs:
- 3 movers + truck: $150/hour
- Duration: 5 hours = $750
- Packing materials: $60
- Total: ≈ $810
No hidden charges. No surprise add-ons. Just professional, efficient moving service.
12. How to Get the Best Value for Your Plano Move
Follow these expert tips from The Move Place to get the most from your moving budget:
Be transparent about your apartment layout and inventory.
Book early to secure the best hourly rates.
Pack in advance if you’re paying by the hour.
Declutter before moving day.
Ask for a flat-rate quote for long-distance moves.
Our mission is simple: to make moving stress-free, affordable, and transparent for every Plano resident.
Conclusion: Plan Smart and Move Confidently
Understanding what factors influence apartment moving costs in Plano, TX, helps you take control of your budget and expectations.
From apartment size to timing, each element affects price — but with The Move Place, you can count on honest quotes, experienced movers, and no hidden fees.
Whether you’re moving across Plano or across Texas, our friendly professionals handle every detail — so you can focus on settling into your new home.
Call or Text (469) 777-6683 for a free estimate today!
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
