Moving is a big undertaking, and one of the most common questions people ask before planning a relocation is: How much does it cost to hire movers in Savannah, Georgia? Whether you’re moving across town or preparing for a long-distance relocation, understanding the cost factors will help you budget properly and avoid last-minute surprises. This comprehensive guide explores what goes into moving costs in Savannah, what you can expect based on your move type, and how to save money during the process. It’s also valuable for local moving companies looking to attract more mover leads by offering transparent, location-specific pricing.
What Are the Average Moving Costs in Savannah?
While moving prices can vary widely, here’s a general idea of what people pay when hiring professional movers in Savannah:
- Studio or 1-bedroom local move: Typically ranges from $300 to $600.
2–3 bedroom home (local move): Often falls between $600 and $1,200. - Large homes (4+ bedrooms): May cost $1,200 to $2,000 or more for local moves.
- Long-distance relocations: Can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000+, depending on distance and weight.
Local movers generally charge hourly rates, which average between $100 to $150 per hour for a two-person team and a moving truck. Long-distance movers typically quote flat rates based on weight, distance, and services required.
What Factors Influence the Cost of Movers in Savannah?
Several important variables determine how much you’ll pay for moving services in Savannah:
Distance of the Move
Local moves (typically under 50 miles) are priced hourly, while long-distance moves (100+ miles or out-of-state) are priced based on mileage and shipment weight.
Size of Your Home
Naturally, a four-bedroom house takes more time and manpower to move than a one-bedroom apartment. More items mean more packing, heavier loads, and often bigger or multiple trucks.
Season and Timing
Moving during peak season (May through August) or on weekends will almost always cost more. If you’re looking to save money, consider scheduling your move in off-peak months or midweek.
Accessibility
Homes with stairs, narrow hallways, elevators, or difficult parking access may require more effort and time, increasing your total bill. Movers may also charge extra for particularly challenging environments.
Special Items
Items like pianos, pool tables, antiques, gun safes, and large appliances often require special handling or extra manpower, which can result in additional charges.
Extra Services
Hiring movers for packing, unpacking, disassembly/reassembly, storage, or custom crating will all add to the final cost. While these services can save time and effort, they can also significantly raise the price of the move.
Packing Services: How Much Should You Budget?
While you can reduce your moving expenses by packing yourself, professional packing services are a convenient (and sometimes essential) option.
In Savannah, packing services typically range from:
- $30 to $60 per hour per mover for labor only.
- A full packing service for a 2-3 bedroom home can range from $300 to $1,000 or more, depending on the complexity and volume of items.
- Packing materials (boxes, tape, bubble wrap, etc.) may add another $100 to $300.
If you’re tight on budget, consider packing your clothing, linens, and books yourself, while letting the professionals handle breakables, electronics, and furniture.
Common Additional Fees to Watch Out For
In addition to standard hourly or flat-rate pricing, movers in Savannah may charge additional fees depending on the complexity of your move. Always ask for a full quote in writing before booking.
Some common extra fees include:
Travel Time Charges
This covers the time it takes movers to get to and from your pickup and drop-off locations. It’s often a flat rate but can vary based on distance and traffic conditions.
Long Carry Charges
If the movers must carry your belongings more than 75 feet from your door to the truck, they may charge a long carry fee. This is more common in apartment complexes or urban areas with limited parking.
Stair or Elevator Fees
If your move involves stairs or elevators (especially without freight access), additional labor charges may apply.
Fuel Surcharges
Some moving companies add a fuel fee, especially for long-distance moves or when gas prices are high.
Storage Costs
Need to store items temporarily? Storage fees may be charged on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis, depending on the company and facility.
Tips to Save Money on Your Savannah Move
A professional move is an investment, but there are ways to keep costs manageable. Here are smart strategies to stay within budget:
Declutter Before You Move
The fewer items you bring, the lower your moving bill will be. Take time to sell, donate, or discard items you no longer need. This is especially helpful for cutting costs on long-distance moves, where pricing is often based on weight.
Do the Packing Yourself
If you’re physically able, packing your own boxes can save hundreds of dollars. Just make sure to pack properly — movers aren’t responsible for damage to self-packed boxes unless there’s clear negligence.
Book Early
Movers in Savannah get booked up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Booking your move 4–8 weeks in advance can secure a better rate and give you time to compare multiple quotes.
Move During Off-Peak Times
Avoid moving in the summer if possible. Winter and early spring are considered off-peak seasons, and you’ll likely get better pricing and more flexibility with your moving date.
Compare At Least Three Estimates
Don’t settle for the first quote you get. Contact multiple companies for on-site or virtual estimates, and ask for itemized quotes so you can compare services line-by-line.
Choosing the Right Moving Company in Savannah
Not all moving companies are created equal. To ensure you’re getting value and professionalism, always do the following:
- Check online reviews on Google, Yelp, and Better Business Bureau.
- Verify licensing and insurance, especially for long-distance moves (look for a valid USDOT number).
- Ask for references or testimonials from previous customers.
- Avoid large upfront deposits — reputable companies typically ask for no more than 25%.
Some companies specialize in local residential moves, while others focus on long-distance or corporate relocations. Be sure to choose one that aligns with your specific needs. For moving companies looking to grow, being transparent about pricing and services is a great way to attract mover leads from homeowners and businesses searching online for trustworthy providers.
Long-Distance Moves from Savannah: What to Know
If you’re relocating out of Georgia, you’ll likely need a licensed interstate mover. These moves are priced based on total weight and mileage, and usually involve more planning, paperwork, and timing considerations.
Be sure to:
- Ask for a binding or not-to-exceed quote to protect against surprise charges.
- Clarify delivery windows to avoid delays.
- Confirm liability coverage or third-party insurance for your valuables.
Long-distance moves can take anywhere from 3 to 14 days depending on the route and season, so pack a few essentials in a personal bag while your items are in transit.
Conclusion:
So, how much does it cost to hire movers in Savannah? The answer varies depending on your move size, distance, and additional services — but with the right preparation, you can make informed decisions that align with your budget. From hourly local moves to full-service long-distance relocations, understanding the cost breakdown helps you plan better and avoid unwanted surprises. For individuals, this means a smoother, less stressful move. For moving companies, providing clear answers to this question can help generate more mover leads and improve customer trust.
Whether you’re moving into a charming downtown apartment or relocating your family to the suburbs, knowing your options and asking the right questions is the first step toward a successful move.
