How long does it take to move? That’s a common question with more than one answer. The moving time depends on a mix of factors like the size of your home, distance to the new location, how prepared you are, and whether you’re hiring professional movers or doing it yourself. Each situation is different, and so is the moving duration.
In this guide, we’ll break down how long moving takes based on home size—from studio apartments to large houses. You’ll also see side-by-side comparisons between DIY moves and hiring moving companies, so you can plan your time and energy wisely. Whether you’re just curious or need to schedule your moving hours accurately, this article covers all the must-know details to help you move smoothly and on time.
What Affects the Time It Takes to Move?
When planning a move, one of the most common questions people ask is, “How long will the move take?” The truth is, moving time can vary greatly depending on several key factors. Whether you’re planning a local move in Los Angeles or a long-distance relocation, understanding what influences your moving hours can help you prepare better and avoid surprises on moving day.
1. Size of the Home or Apartment
The bigger the home, the more time it usually takes to move. A studio apartment might take just 2–4 moving hours, while a 4-bedroom house can take 8+ hours or more. More rooms mean more furniture, boxes, and items to load and unload.
2. Distance of the Move (Local vs. Long-Distance)
Local moves generally take less time, especially if you’re moving within the same city like Pasadena, Sherman Oaks, or Beverly Hills. However, long-distance moves involve more logistics, travel time, and sometimes overnight stays, which can increase overall moving time by a day or more.
3. Number of Movers
The number of movers handling your relocation plays a big role in determining total moving hours. For example, two movers might need 6 hours for a job, while four movers could complete the same move in 3–4 hours. More hands mean faster loading, unloading, and setup.
4. Packing Status (Packed vs. Unpacked)
If everything is packed and ready to go, your move will move much faster. However, if boxes aren’t sealed, items are still in drawers, or fragile belongings need extra care, expect longer moving time. Being fully packed in advance is one of the best ways to save time on moving day.
5. Accessibility (Stairs, Elevators, and Parking)
Easy access can make a big difference. If movers have to walk long distances, climb stairs, wait for elevators, or deal with tight parking situations, it adds more time. Inform your movers ahead of time about the layout of your location so they can plan efficiently and keep moving hours under control.
6. Weather and Traffic Conditions
Unpredictable weather and Los Angeles traffic are two major wild cards. Rain, extreme heat, or heavy traffic during rush hour can all slow things down. Movers work cautiously during bad weather to protect your belongings, and road delays can increase your total moving time unexpectedly.
Need Fast and Reliable Help with Your Move?
If you’re looking for trustworthy, time-efficient moving services in Sherman Oaks, Chamomile Go is here to help. We offer professional local and long-distance moving tailored to your schedule. Whether you’re moving a small apartment or a large home, our experienced team ensures your move is done right—and right on time. Book your move today with Chamomile Go and let us make your move smooth, simple, and stress-free.
How Long Do Movers Take?
One of the biggest concerns during a move is understanding how long the entire process will take. If you’re planning a move within Los Angeles or nearby areas like Sherman Oaks, Pasadena, or Culver City, it’s helpful to know the average duration professional movers need—and what factors influence that time.
Let’s break it down clearly so you know what to expect on moving day.
Average Duration Professional Movers Need
Depending on the size of the move, movers typically take the following amount of time:
- Studio/1-bedroom apartment: 2–4 hours
- 2-bedroom home: 4–6 hours
- 3-bedroom home: 6–8 hours
- Larger homes (4+ bedrooms): 8+ hours or even a full day
These are estimates and assume normal conditions. Every move is unique, so your actual moving hours may vary.
How Experience and Number of Movers Impact Time
The experience level of the movers plays a huge role. Skilled, trained movers work faster, pack more efficiently, and avoid common slowdowns.
Also, the number of movers assigned to your move affects the overall moving time:
- 2 movers = longer duration
- 3–4 movers = faster and smoother move
Hiring more experienced professionals usually means a shorter, more efficient moving process—even if the job seems complex.
Benefits of Hiring Professional Movers
When you hire professional movers, you’re not just paying for muscle—you’re investing in efficiency, speed, and expert planning. Here’s what that includes:
- Strategic loading and unloading to minimize wasted time
- Safe handling of fragile and heavy items
- Optimized use of truck space (fewer trips = less time)
- Less stress for you = more energy for unpacking and settling in
With pros, your moving time is more predictable and usually shorter than if you handled it solo.
Common Delays Movers May Face
Even with the best planning, some factors can slow down the move:
- Traffic delays in busy areas like Los Angeles or Santa Monica
- Weather conditions (rain, heatwaves, or wind)
- Packing not being finished when movers arrive
- Limited access to the property (tight hallways, no elevator, distant parking)
- Last-minute changes in the move plan
Understanding these potential delays helps you better prepare and reduce your actual moving hours.
You may read about How Much Do Movers Cost For A One Bedroom Apartment.
Moving a Small/Studio Apartment
When it comes to moving a small or studio apartment, many assume the process will be quick and simple—and it often is. But the actual moving time still depends on how prepared you are, how many movers are involved, and how accessible your home is.
Let’s break down what you need to know about moving a small apartment efficiently and affordably.
Typical Timeframe: 2–4 Hours
On average, moving a small/studio apartment takes about 2 to 4 hours with two professional movers. This includes loading, transport (for local moves), and unloading. If your items are boxed, labeled, and ready by the door, it could even take less time.
However, if the apartment is cluttered, furniture needs disassembly, or the movers face challenges like stairs or no elevator access, the moving hours could stretch beyond the average.
Packed vs. Unprepared: It Makes a Big Difference
- If you’re packed: Movers can begin loading immediately, which saves significant time. Labeled boxes and pre-disassembled furniture can reduce moving time dramatically.
- If you’re unprepared: Expect delays. Movers may need to help you pack last-minute items or disassemble beds, which adds to the clock—and your final cost if you’re being billed hourly.
Tips for Speeding Up a Small Move
Here are a few ways to make your small move even faster:
- Use uniform-sized boxes: Easier to stack and load
- Disassemble furniture in advance: Especially beds, tables, or desks
- Reserve parking close to your unit: Shorter walks mean faster loading
- Label your boxes clearly: Saves time during unloading
- Secure elevators (if needed): Especially in apartment complexes with limited lift access
Even with a small move, preparation is key to cutting down moving hours.
Hourly vs. Flat Rate Charges
Depending on the size of the move, moving companies may provide fixed charges or hourly rates for relocating a tiny or studio apartment:
- Hourly rate is common for local moves and gives flexibility—but can cost more if there are delays
- Flat rate gives you cost certainty, but may be higher upfront if the company is factoring in potential challenges
Chamomile Go provides both options depending on your moving needs in Sherman Oaks and surrounding areas. We help you choose the best pricing model for your situation.
Moving a 2–3 Bedroom House
Moving a 2–3 bedroom house is a bigger task than a studio move but can still be done efficiently with the right planning and team.
Expected Moving Time
- Local moves: Typically 5–8 hours
- Long-distance moves: Usually 1–2 days, depending on travel distance and logistics
Number of Movers Required
Most 2–3 bedroom homes need 3–4 professional movers to keep your moving time on track and avoid delays.
Room-by-Room Packing Tips
- Pack one room at a time and get started early.
- Label boxes by room and contents
- Use color-coded tape or stickers to speed up unloading
- Pack essentials separately for first-night access
Handling Large Furniture or Special Items
Heavy items like sectionals, pianos, or fragile antiques may require extra time or special handling. Let your movers know in advance to plan the right equipment and crew size.
Local vs Long-Distance Moves – Time Comparison
Whether you’re moving across town in Los Angeles or relocating to another state, the time it takes can vary a lot depending on distance and home size. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you understand the difference in moving time between local and long-distance moves:
Estimated Moving Time Comparison
Home Size | Local Move (Same City) | Long-Distance Move (State-to-State) |
Studio Apartment | 2–4 hours | 1–2 days (including transport) |
2–3 Bedroom House | 5–8 hours | 2–3+ days (depending on distance) |
Why Long-Distance Takes Longer
- Travel Time: Movers need more time to drive between states, often with regulated driving hours and mandatory rest stops.
- Regulations: Interstate moves involve DOT compliance, weight checks, and more paperwork.
- Logistics: More planning goes into routing, fuel, tolls, and potential overnight storage.
Even if the packing and loading times are similar, long-distance moves require more coordination, which increases total moving hours.
Need help planning a local or long-distance move from Los Angeles, Sherman Oaks, or beyond? Chamomile Go provides reliable, time-efficient moving solutions no matter the distance. Reach out today for a quote tailored to your moving needs.
Final Thoughts
The time it takes to move depends on your home size, how prepared you are, the number of movers, and whether it’s a local or long-distance move. A studio may take just 2–4 hours, while a 3-bedroom home could take 6–8 hours or more. Long-distance moves often span 1–3 days due to travel and logistics. If you need help with a fast, smooth move Chamomile Go is here for you. Contact us today for trusted local or long-distance moving services. Reliable. Efficient. On time.
FAQs
How Long Does It Take To Move A Studio Apartment?
A studio apartment move usually takes 2 to 4 hours with two professional movers if everything is packed and access is easy. Unpacked items or difficult parking can extend the time.
How Many Hours Does It Take To Move A 2–3 Bedroom House?
For a local move, expect 5 to 8 hours with a team of 3–4 movers. For long-distance moves, it typically takes 1–2 days depending on distance, travel time, and logistics.
Does Packing Ahead Reduce Moving Time?
Yes. Being fully packed before movers arrive can save hours. Movers can start loading immediately, reducing your total moving hours and possibly lowering the overall cost.
How Does Distance Affect Moving Time?
Local moves are usually completed in a day, while long-distance moves (interstate or across California) can take 2–5 days, depending on the route, regulations, and delivery schedule.
How Long Do Movers Take Per Room?
On average, movers spend 1 to 1.5 hours per room, depending on how many items you have and how packed you are. This includes disassembling, loading, and unloading.
