Single item movers near you

When looking for single-item movers, make sure you complete the following steps: 

• Verify their license and insurance: Reliable moving companies often have several types of credentials. These might include the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) numbers for interstate moves, permits according to state guidelines and an MC number (Motor Carrier number) to identify commercial vehicles. You should also look to hire a mover who offers general liability and cargo insurance to help protect your items during transit. Requirements depend on your local area so be sure to do your research.

• Get several estimates: Getting multiple quotes can help you compare prices, assess service quality and check insurance coverage. The estimate should include hidden fees for item type or moving challenges (think: stairs and narrow passages). 

• Read their reviews: Look for reliable reviews and high ratings. Beware of negative feedback regarding customer service, efficiency and damage to belongings. 

• Find out if they have guarantees: Try to hire a mover that offers insurance if your item is lost, damaged or destroyed during the move. Determine how your item will be protected and what scenarios exempt it from coverage.

• Ask important questions: Before hiring a single-item mover, find out what happens if your item is damaged, what equipment they use to transport your item safely and whether their team is experienced in moving your specific item.

For more tips, visit Thumbtack’s Smart Hiring page. 

Many movers can transport a variety of heavy, fragile or valuable items, including:

• Large or delicate furniture: such as sofas, sectionals, dining tables, armoires, dressers and beds

• Appliances: such as refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, dishwashers and stoves

• Pianos: and other large musical instruments

• Safes: and security vaults

• Pool tables: and arcade machines

• Antiques: and artwork

• Gym equipment: like treadmills, elliptical machines and weight machines

• Electronics: such as large TVs, home theater systems and server equipment

• Outbuildings: like sheds, pergolas or gazebos

Single-item movers may be called in to move the item(s) that your standard movers won’t handle. Or, you can hire them to transport an item in a one-off purchase or sale. 

The national average cost of single-item movers ranges from around $150 to $300,* according to Thumbtack data.

There are several factors that might impact the cost of hiring single-item movers, including: 

• Weight and dimensions: Heavy, large or more fragile items often require special moving equipment or vehicles.

• Distance: The more fuel and time needed, the higher the cost.

• Move complexity: Awkward stairwells, narrow passages, hoisting items or fragile handling may affect the care and cost of the move.

• Insurance and warranty: The level of protection on your item may increase the price.

• Packing materials: Fragile items like pianos often require ample packaging and unique moving equipment, which may increase the cost. 

• Scheduling: Moving during peak times or at the last minute may incur a rush fee.

You might be able to save money on single-item moves with these tips: 

• Think ahead: Organize movers early and choose a date that’s midweek or “off” season to potentially lower the cost.

• Compare quotes: Transparent pricing that includes all fees or variables can help you choose a single-item mover that suits your budget.

• Ask about discounts: From student deals to first-time customers, you may find a mover who offers lower rates.

• Package the item yourself: Use low-cost materials and packing blankets to prepare your item for the move.

• Check your insurance: Contact your insurance company to confirm coverage for your item. Comprehensive item coverage might save you from adding insurance fees to your single-item mover's quote. 

*Data on file at Thumbtack. For a personalized cost estimate, request a quote from a professional.

Movers typically won’t move things if relocating them could be hazardous to them, others or the item itself. Many movers will choose not to move items that may contain explosive material that could be jostled during the move. Illegal items or containers that may have illegal items stored or hidden inside would also get a no from movers.

What movers won’t move may also depend on the item’s condition. If it will likely break during the move, movers may avoid moving it.

Before hiring a professional, ask movers near you if there are any items they will not move.

Some of the biggest benefits of hiring a pro to move a single item (such as a piano, an antique mirror, a heavy safe or an expensive piece of artwork) include the following:

• Ensure safety: Hiring movers means you can avoid injury to yourself, especially if you don’t know what you’re doing. Moving a heavy or awkwardly shaped object with improper form or without proper equipment can be dangerous.  

• Protecting your possessions: A professional mover can help prevent damage to the item (and/or the property), which can happen when moving large or fragile items without experience or proper equipment.

• Speed: Experienced movers can often work faster than the average person.

• Better moving equipment: Transportation may be more efficient using the moving company’s vehicle and/or specialty moving equipment.

• Insurance: Items in transit may be protected by the moving company’s insurance. Just make sure you understand what is and isn’t covered.

Single-item movers are those who specialize in moving, packing, transporting and unpacking single items. The reason such movers are important is their expertise. When there are special or valuable items like artwork, pianos or other precious or fragile objects, single-item movers will treat them with the knowledge necessary to prevent damage during transport. These movers are also helpful for moving heavy items like fire-proof safes and large pieces of furniture. 

When accounting for moving costs, you can generally expect to pay around $30 to $50 per mover, per hour. However, these costs could change and you should compare movers in your city to estimate the true cost of your move.

Moving companies usually provide a team of at least two individuals depending on the size of the job and the objects to be moved. This hourly rate also changes with driving distance. And, moving specialty objects such as pianos can also drive up the cost. Some moving companies may provide a free estimate even offer a flat rate if the job.

For more information on moving costs, read Thumbtack’s cost guide on movers.

You might be able to move smaller items like nightstands, small desks, chairs and small tables by yourself. However, it’s best to get a professional mover near you to move larger items such as couches, dressers, armoires and televisions. 

If you do decide to move furniture by yourself, carefully lift and lower items and take your time.

It often makes more financial sense to buy new stuff when you have the chance to sell furniture to offset the cost. The cost of moving your current furniture can sometimes be more than buying new things, particularly if the furniture is large or cumbersome to move. You can sell furniture online, or make a furniture donation and deduct it from your taxes (if it qualifies as a charitable contribution). Some places near you may even offer free furniture pickup when you choose to donate. 

If you have valuable furniture that would be costly to replace, however, it may be cheaper to move them. To find out which option is best for you, contact professional movers in your area to receive quotes and estimates.

Moving large furniture can be done with help from the best movers in your area and careful planning. First, get an idea of how much the furniture weighs and how much each mover can manage. The next step is figuring out the path the furniture will take as it exits its point of origin and makes its way to its new home. Professional movers then use dollies, furniture protectors and personal safety gear for a safe, smooth move.