How Much Do Lakeland, FL Movers Cost?

Quick answer: The typical cost for hiring movers in Lakeland is $95 per hour, with the total cost to move ranging from $371 to $3,158, on average. If you’re moving out of Florida, the cost of hiring long-distance movers in Lakeland really depends on where you’re moving.

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  • Unlimited storage
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  • 10% discount

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Average cost to hire a local moving company in Lakeland, FL

Hiring a full-service Lakeland mover is definitely the most convenient option, but that convenience comes at a cost — professional movers tend to be more expensive than other moving options. If you want movers to do all the heavy lifting for you and you can afford it, hire a full-service moving company for your Lakeland move.

If you want to save money, you can hire a container company, where you do the packing and loading and they transport your belongings in Lakeland for you, or by renting a moving truck and handling it all on your own.

Here are the average moving costs from Lakeland to another state with different types of movers:

Destination Professional Movers Containers Rental Trucks
Wilmington $2,397 - $5,371 $1,536 - $2,934 $748 - $1,577
Chicago $2,379 - $5,776 $1,542 - $3,122 $857 - $1,796
Waterbury $2,515 - $6,009 $1,735 - $3,217 $819 - $1,823

And here's how much professional movers cost in Lakeland based on your move size:

Home size Avg. total cost Cost/hour # of movers # hours
Studio $371 $133 2 movers 3 hours
1 bedroom $504 $133 2 movers 4 hours
2 bedroom $796 $186 3 movers 5 hours
3 bedroom $1,804 $261 4 movers 8 hours
4 bedroom $2,065 $261 4 movers 9 hours
5+ bedroom $3,158 $365 5 movers 10 hours
  • Studio: The average cost to hire movers in Lakeland to move a studio apartment is $133 per hour for three hours using a two-person moving crew.
  • One bedroom: Moving a one-bedroom Lakeland apartment or home will typically take four hours, at an hourly rate of $133, and require two movers.
  • Two bedrooms: It will cost $186 an hour, on average, to hire a three-person crew in Lakeland to move a two-bedroom home. Two-bedroom moves usually take about five hours.
  • Three bedrooms: Local Lakeland movers charge an average hourly rate of $261 for a three-bedroom home. A move of this size will usually take eight hours to complete using four movers.
  • Four bedrooms: For a four-bedroom house in Lakeland, you can expect to pay $261 per hour for nine hours. You’ll likely need a four-person moving crew.
  • Five or more bedrooms: If your Lakeland home is a five-bedroom or larger, you will pay $365 an hour, on average, for five movers. Moves this size usually take about ten hours to complete.

It's worth noting the cost per hour for Lakeland movers remains the same for all home sizes, ranging from $133 per hour for two movers to $365 per hour for five movers. As the size of your home increases, the number of movers and hours required for the move also increases, resulting in a higher total cost.

Overall, hiring local Lakeland movers is a convenient and stress-free way to move within the city. By knowing the approximate cost for your home size, you can budget accordingly and make informed decisions for your upcoming move.

Easily compare personalized moving quotes for your Lakeland move using our free and instant moving cost calculator.

Best local moving companies in Lakeland, FL

Our expert team of analysts has dug deep into licensing, insurance options, online reviews, and hundreds of other data points to find you the best local moving companies in Lakeland.

  1. True Friends Moving Company: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  2. Browning Moving & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  3. Two Men and a Truck: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  4. Anytime Moving, Inc.: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  5. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.2 out of 5 stars
Pros
  • Quick moving process (30%)
  • Professional and polite staff (27%)
  • Efficient service (25%)
Cons
  • Unexpected charges (19%)
  • Lack of communication (17%)
  • Damage to items (15%)
Review Analysis
True Friends Moving Company has 176 online customer reviews, with 85% of them being positive. Customers praised the company's efficiency, with many noting how quickly their moves were completed. The staff is often described as friendly and professional, making the moving process less stressful. However, some customers reported issues with communication and unexpected charges, leading to frustration. While many appreciate the transparent pricing, others felt misled about costs, affecting their overall satisfaction. True Friends stands out among moving companies for its commitment to customer service, but there are areas needing improvement based on customer feedback.
Get a Quote (813) 579-3333

Company Info

State license #: 2629977

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2629977


True Friends Moving Company, serving the Thonotosassa, FL area since 2014, specializes in local residential moves, setting them apart from competitors with their decade-long experience. They boast impressive consumer reviews, with an average rating of 4.5 on Yelp and 4.8 on Google, complemented by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Known for their reliability and customer satisfaction, they not only provide packing and unpacking services but also offer specialized services such as piano moving, all while accepting credit cards and requiring no deposit. True Friends Moving Company stands as a trustworthy and comprehensive choice for local moves in the Thonotosassa area.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
Pros
  • Efficient service (34%)
  • Professional and polite staff (29%)
  • Careful handling (25%)
Cons
  • Damage to items (22%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (18%)
  • Lack of communication (15%)
Review Analysis
Browning Moving & Storage has 228 customer feedback entries, with 78% of them being positive. Customers praised the company for its efficient service, professional staff, and careful handling of belongings. Many noted that the movers were friendly and communicated well throughout the process. On the downside, some clients reported issues with damaged items, delays in delivery, and poor communication at times. Despite these challenges, the majority of feedback highlights the company's commitment to customer satisfaction and reliability compared to other moving services.
Get a Quote (863) 683-6494

Company Info

State license #: 77949

Years in Business: 35

DOT #: 077949

Alternate Names: Fister Moving & Storage, Inc.


Browning Moving & Storage offers dependable local residential moving services in and around Lakeland, FL. Established in 1989, they have built a solid reputation, reflected by their Better Business Bureau rating of A+. Customers appreciate their comprehensive services, including packing, unpacking, and fragile-only packing options, which set them apart from some nearby competitors. Consumer reviews on Yelp give them an average rating of 3.8, indicating generally positive experiences. With over three decades of experience, Browning Moving & Storage stands as a reputable choice for local moves in the Lakeland area.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
Pros
  • Professional and polite staff (30%)
  • Efficient service (28%)
  • Careful handling (25%)
Cons
  • Damage to items (20%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (18%)
  • Lack of communication (15%)
Review Analysis
Two Men and a Truck has 239 online customer reviews, 76% of which are positive. Customers frequently praise the efficiency and professionalism of the moving teams, highlighting their friendly demeanor and careful handling of belongings. However, some feedback points out issues with communication and instances of damage to items during moves. Overall, while many customers appreciate the reliable service and quick responses, a few express disappointment regarding their experiences with damaged items and delays in arrival.
Get a Quote (863) 594-1002

Company Info

State license #: IM1517

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: J & J Family Moving & Storage, LLC


Two Men and a Truck is a reputable local moving company serving Lakeland, FL, and its surrounding areas since 2008. Specializing in local residential moves, they offer comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and even moving large items like pianos and safes. Their customer feedback is largely positive, boasting an impressive 4.8 average rating from 576 Google reviews and an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, though Yelp reviews are more mixed. Unlike some nearby competitors, they accept credit cards and require no deposit, making them a convenient and trustworthy choice for your next local move.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
Pros
  • Efficient service (75%)
  • Professional and polite staff (62%)
  • Affordable rates (50%)
Cons
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (25%)
  • Lack of communication (12%)
  • Higher-than-expected costs (12%)
Review Analysis
Anytime Moving, Inc. has 8 customer feedback entries, with 100% of them being positive. Customers praise the company for its efficient service, friendly and professional staff, and affordable rates. They highlight how the movers handle items carefully and maintain good communication throughout the process. Some customers did mention challenges with scheduling and limited availability, but these concerns did not overshadow the overwhelmingly positive experiences shared. The company stands out for its commitment to customer satisfaction, making it a top choice compared to others in the moving industry.
Get a Quote (863) 646-3325

Company Info

State license #: 1053562

Years in Business: 21

DOT #: 1053562


Anytime Moving, Inc. has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Lakeland, FL since 2003. Compared to other nearby moving companies, Anytime Moving stands out for its comprehensive offerings, including packing, unpacking, and specialized services such as moving pianos and antiques. The company has earned glowing consumer reviews, boasting an average rating of 5.0 on Yelp and 4.8 on Google, along with an impressive A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. With no deposit required and a reputation for reliability, Anytime Moving, Inc. is a highly recommended choice for local moves.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
Pros
  • Professional and polite staff (30%)
  • Efficient service (25%)
  • Good communication (22%)
Cons
  • Damage to items (20%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (18%)
  • Unexpected charges (15%)
Review Analysis
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving has 235 customer reviews, with 78% being positive. Customers appreciate the friendly and professional staff, who handle belongings with care and work efficiently. Many highlight the easy booking process and good communication. On the downside, some customers report issues with damaged items and unexpected charges, alongside complaints about delayed service. Despite these concerns, the overall feedback indicates that this company provides a solid moving experience, often exceeding expectations compared to competitors.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

State license #: 2841941

DOT #: 2378173


College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving offers exceptional local residential moving services in and around Lakeland, FL. This company stands out with an impressive average rating of 4.9 from over 1,100 Google reviews, and a solid 4.3 average from 24 Yelp reviews, showcasing high customer satisfaction. Unlike many nearby moving companies, they also provide office moving, packing, unpacking, and labor-only services. Notably, they accept credit cards and do not require a deposit, making them a convenient and reliable choice for local moves.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

Visit our best movers in Lakeland page to see a complete list of moving companies, including hourly rates, services, and reviews. And if you’re moving outside of Lakeland, consider one of Lakeland’s top long-distance movers.

City moving costs in Florida

Average cost of PODS in Lakeland, FL

PODS will cost $220–$7,448, on average, in Lakeland. The exact PODS cost you’ll pay will depend on whether you use an eight-, 12-, or 16-foot container (note: 12-foot containers are only available for local moves). The distance of your move will also greatly impact cost.

A local Lakeland move within 50 miles of your home will run between $220 and $813, while long-distance moves (100-250 miles) will typically cost $250–$2,107. Container pricing on cross-country moves from Lakeland can cost an average range of $2,068–$7,448.

Here's a breakdown of related PODS costs:

  • Storage fee: $149–$359 (first 30 days is free)
  • Damage coverage: 10–$439.95 per month, depending on the protection plan. Coverage ranges from container-only (no contents protection) to $300,000. All plans have a deductible of $100.
  • Door lock (if necessary): $25 (if purchased through PODS; you can also purchase from home improvement stores or online retailers)

If you’re looking for the cost-savings of a DIY move and the convenience of full-service movers, moving containers like PODS are a great option. You’ll handle loading and unloading, but they will drop off your empty container at your current home, pick it up once it’s loaded, and deliver it to your new location. This means you won’t have to worry about driving.

PODS is our overall top pick for moving containers in Phoenix based on their stellar reputation, nationwide availability, and multiple container sizes and insurance plans. But you should take a look at least two other highly rated moving container companies on our list to see which one offers the right combination of services and pricing for your move.

Best moving containers in Lakeland, FL

The best Lakeland moving container companies provide multiple container sizes, pricing transparency and deals, and secure, state-of-the-art facilities for longer-term storage needs. They should also have a solid reputation for quality customer service and efficient drop-off and pickup of containers.

Check out these highly rated moving containers:

Best Nationwide Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
At A Glance
  • 30 days storage included
  • Local and long distance moving options
  • Unlimited loading/unloading time
  • Store on property or at a facility
read our full review
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Best value container
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
Check prices Visit Website
At A Glance
  • Long distance moves only
  • Only pay for the space you use
  • No deposit or initial fees
  • Fast delivery time frames
read our full review
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Average cost to rent a moving truck in Lakeland, FL

You'll definitely have to break a sweat, but moving truck rentals in Lakeland will be much easier on your wallet than full-service movers. The average cost to rent a moving truck in Lakeland ranges from $19-$39 per day.

While cheaper than full-service moving companies, you’ll have to do all the heavy lifting yourself — from boxing up your belongings to loading them on the truck, hauling them to your new spot, and unloading everything there.

Here are the typical costs of Lakeland rental trucks:

  • Base cost: $19–$39 per day
  • Mileage fee: $0.69–$0.99 per mile
  • Fuel cost: Depends on driving distance
  • Truck coverage: $20–$55 based on coverage level
  • Equipment costs (optional): Dolly, straps, blankets

The total cost to rent a truck from companies like Budget or U-Haul will depend on:

  • How far you drive the truck
  • How long you have the truck rental
  • Additional insurance
  • Parking
  • Toll fees
  • Fuel
  • Accommodations and dining
  • Moving equipment rentals

Best moving truck rentals in Lakeland, FL

The best moving truck rentals in Lakeland provide affordable rates with no hidden fees, a variety of truck sizes, and plenty of physical locations across the U.S. for convenient rental returns.

These top moving truck rentals certainly fit the bill:

Best Availability
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
Check prices (800) 468-4285
At A Glance
  • More than 20,000 locations with prominent pricing
  • Rental options include everything from pick-up trucks to 26-foot moving trucks
  • Gentle-Ride Suspension add protection to avoid damaging your items during transit
  • U-Box moving containers available if you don't want to drive
read our full review
Check prices (800) 468-4285
Most Reliable
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Check prices (844) 847-9517
At A Glance
  • Limits environmental impact as part of the EPA's SmartWay Program
  • Non-slip flooring makes loading and unloading easier
  • Easily choose truck size with their Truck Wizard Tool
read our full review
Check prices (844) 847-9517
Best Value Rental
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
Check prices Visit Website
At A Glance
  • Competitive base prices with specialized discounts
  • Round-trip and one-way moves available
  • User-friendly website makes it easy to book the right truck
read our full review
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Average cost of labor-only moving companies in Lakeland, FL

The average cost of labor-only moving companies in Lakeland is an hourly rate of $48 for each crew member. Most moves — even small one-bedroom apartments — require a crew of two movers, so plan on about $95.0 per hour to hire labor assistance in Lakeland.

Best labor-only moving companies in Lakeland

The best Lakeland labor-only movers have a reputation for professional and efficient service, but also provide reasonable hourly rates and a variety of optional services like packing that you can pick and choose from to create a customized plan suited to your specific needs.

We like these top-notch labor-only movers:

Best Labor Only
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Check prices Visit Website
At A Glance
  • First call quoting, get a quote in just a couple of minutes
  • Rates are typically 20-40% lower than the industry averages
  • $1,000 money-back service guarantee
  • Fast and accurate delivery times
  • Free damage coverage with additional coverage options
read our full review
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Best customer experience
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
(866) 774-5063
At A Glance
  • Quick and easy booking process
  • National 4.75/5 star rating (these guys are good at what they do)
  • Dedicated move concierge specialist
  • Pay as you go service. 2-hour minimum and then prorated down to the minute
  • The time clock starts when the movers arrive and ends when you tell them
read our full review
(866) 774-5063

Factors that affect the cost of movers in Lakeland, FL

The biggest factor that affects the cost of movers in Lakeland, FL, is distance, but there are several other price considerations to keep in mind, including:

  • The size of your move: The more belongings you have, the more your move will cost. Moving a four-bedroom home will typically be more expensive than moving a studio apartment.
  • When you move: You’ll usually pay more to move during peak season (May–September) because demand is higher. Similarly, the time of month and day of the week you book your move will impact cost. Demand will be higher the first and last of each month, when leases change over, and on Fridays and Saturdays, the most popular moving days. To save money on your move, consider booking during the week and in the middle of one of the off-season months, if possible.
  • The type of move: Professional movers are the most convenient option, but they will cost you more than going with a DIY option like moving container companies or moving truck rentals.
  • Any add-on services you select: Even if you go with a DIY move, you may want to hire third-party movers to assist you with loading and unloading. And professional movers offer a variety of optional services like packing and unpacking to help customize and streamline your relocation. But these additional services will come at an extra cost.

Quick tips for a stress-free move

  • Have important documentation. Places like high rises and managed apartments will often require a copy of your mover's insurance and elevator reservation on moving day.
  • Get approval. Check ahead with any neighborhood, community, or HOA rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Secure a parking permit (if needed). Downtown Lakeland offers various parking options, depending on parking needs and frequency. Free parking is available a few blocks away, and street parking is monitored between 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. on weekdays, but is free on weekends and evenings. Public lots are also free on weekends and evenings. ParkMobile is the payment method for street parking, with a $1/hour charge and $0.35 transaction fee, and can be accessed through their website or app, using PayPal, Visa, MasterCard, or Discover.
  • Check state licensing laws. Individuals and companies engaging in for-profit local and intrastate moving within the Sunshine State must register each year with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services – Division of Consumer Services.
  • Invest in moving insurance. Released Value Protection stands out as a cost-effective choice, provided by movers at no extra expense, although it comes with limited coverage. In this option, the mover's liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. To ensure comprehensive coverage matching the full value of your items, consult with your chosen moving company about alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers. Secure the best protection for your belongings during the move with these tailored coverage choices.

Work with your movers to ensure all these items are taken care of before moving day.

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