How Much Do Lancaster, PA Movers Cost?

Quick answer: The typical cost for hiring movers in Lancaster is $138 per hour, with the total cost to move ranging from $514 to $4,561, on average. If you’re moving out of Pennsylvania, the cost of hiring long-distance movers in Lancaster really depends on where you’re moving.

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Average cost to hire a local moving company in Lancaster, PA

Hiring a full-service Lancaster 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 Lancaster 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 Lancaster for you, or by renting a moving truck and handling it all on your own.

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

Destination Professional Movers Containers Rental Trucks
Wilmington $608 - $1,993 $322 - $940 $39 - $100
Columbus $1,694 - $4,456 $1,145 - $2,129 $388 - $755
Charleston $2,161 - $5,497 $1,220 - $2,457 $511 - $1,020

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

Home size Avg. total cost Cost/hour # of movers # hours
Studio $514 $193 2 movers 3 hours
1 bedroom $707 $193 2 movers 4 hours
2 bedroom $1,131 $270 3 movers 5 hours
3 bedroom $2,595 $379 4 movers 8 hours
4 bedroom $2,974 $379 4 movers 9 hours
5+ bedroom $4,561 $530 5 movers 10 hours
  • Studio: The average cost to hire movers in Lancaster to move a studio apartment is $193 per hour for three hours using a two-person moving crew.
  • One bedroom: Moving a one-bedroom Lancaster apartment or home will typically take four hours, at an hourly rate of $193, and require two movers.
  • Two bedrooms: It will cost $270 an hour, on average, to hire a three-person crew in Lancaster to move a two-bedroom home. Two-bedroom moves usually take about five hours.
  • Three bedrooms: Local Lancaster movers charge an average hourly rate of $379 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 Lancaster, you can expect to pay $379 per hour for nine hours. You’ll likely need a four-person moving crew.
  • Five or more bedrooms: If your Lancaster home is a five-bedroom or larger, you will pay $530 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 Lancaster movers remains the same for all home sizes, ranging from $193 per hour for two movers to $530 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 Lancaster 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 Lancaster move using our free and instant moving cost calculator.

Best local moving companies in Lancaster, PA

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 Lancaster.

  1. Armstrong relocation: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  2. Movers & Co.: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  3. Mountain Movers, LLC: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  4. Lausch's Moving Company: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  5. Fairprice Movers: 4.38 out of 5 stars
Pros
  • Efficient service (36%)
  • Professional and polite staff (32%)
  • Careful handling (30%)
Cons
  • Damage to items (25%)
  • Unexpected charges (22%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (20%)
Review Analysis
Armstrong Relocation has 224 customer reviews, with 85% being positive. Many customers praised the company for its efficient service, friendly staff, and careful handling of belongings. Reviewers noted that the movers were professional and worked quickly. On the downside, some customers reported issues with damaged items, unexpected charges, and delayed delivery. While most feedback highlights Armstrong as a reliable choice, a few experiences suggest room for improvement in communication and handling claims.
Get a Quote (717) 492-4155

Company Info

State license #: 8917264

Years in Business: 74

DOT #: 1170867

Alternate Names: Jack Treier Moving & Storage


Armstrong Relocation, a local moving company in Mount Joy, PA, has been providing residential moving services since 1950. They distinguish themselves with a broad range of services including packing, unpacking, and handling fragile items, as well as the expertise to move pianos, art, and antiques. Unlike many nearby competitors, Armstrong Relocation accepts credit cards and requires no deposit. With an impressive 205 reviews on Google averaging 4.7 stars and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, their strong reputation is a testament to their reliability and customer satisfaction.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
Pros
  • Efficient service (34%)
  • Professional and polite staff (29%)
  • Careful handling (25%)
Cons
  • Damage to items (32%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (24%)
  • Lack of communication (20%)
Review Analysis
Movers & Co. has 219 online customer reviews, with 82% of them being positive. Many customers praised the company for their efficient service, friendly staff, and careful handling of belongings. Positive experiences highlighted the professionalism and speed of the movers, making the process smooth and stress-free. On the other hand, some feedback pointed out issues like damage to items, delayed arrival times, and poor communication. Despite these negatives, many customers felt the overall service was worth the cost, making Movers & Co. a competitive choice in the moving industry.
Get a Quote (717) 690-1106

Company Info

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 3195256


Movers & Co., a trusted local moving company in Lancaster, PA, has been delivering reliable residential moving services since 2016. With a stellar reputation, they stand out among nearby competitors, boasting impressive consumer reviews—an average rating of 4.9 on Yelp and 4.8 on Google. Their A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau speaks volumes about their commitment to customer satisfaction. Movers & Co. offers comprehensive services, including packing, unpacking, and crating, without requiring any deposit. They also provide full valuation insurance coverage, ensuring a smooth and worry-free moving experience.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
Pros
  • Efficient service (50%)
  • Professional and polite staff (45%)
  • Good communication (38%)
Cons
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (12%)
  • Unexpected charges (10%)
  • Lack of communication (10%)
Review Analysis
Mountain Movers, LLC has 42 customer reviews, 90% of which are positive. Many customers praised the company's efficiency, professionalism, and careful handling of belongings. They appreciated the team's punctuality and friendly demeanor. On the downside, some customers reported issues with communication and unexpected charges. Despite a few negative experiences, most feedback highlights Mountain Movers as a reliable choice compared to other moving companies.
Get a Quote (610) 985-7900

Company Info

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 3130912


Mountain Movers, LLC offers reliable local residential moving services in and around Mohnton, PA, standing out from other nearby moving companies with their comprehensive packing and unpacking services. Established in 2018, they have built a solid reputation, as evidenced by their A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and a perfect 5.0 average rating on Google, though their Yelp presence is more mixed with a 3.6 average from 8 reviews. They also provide specialized services such as moving antiques and safes, ensuring all valuable items are securely transported. Customers can pay conveniently with credit cards, although a deposit is required.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
Pros
  • Efficient service (45%)
  • Professional and polite staff (41%)
  • Good communication (36%)
Cons
  • Lack of communication (28%)
  • Unexpected charges (22%)
  • Damage to items (21%)
Review Analysis
Lausch's Moving Company has 215 customer reviews, with 76% of them being positive. Many customers praised the team for their efficiency, professionalism, and care in handling belongings. They appreciated the friendly service and timely responses. However, some feedback highlighted issues with communication and unexpected charges, leading to frustration. Despite these challenges, the overall sentiment leans toward satisfaction, with many recommending Lausch's for future moves, citing better experiences compared to other companies.
Get a Quote (610) 750-5534

Company Info

Years in Business: 2

DOT #: 3883274


Lausch's Moving Company offers reliable local residential moving services in and around Mohnton, PA, and has quickly established itself since its inception in 2023. The company also provides packing and unpacking services, and stands out for not requiring a deposit, making it convenient for clients. While the company holds a solid Google rating of 4.1 from 102 reviews and an A- rating from the Better Business Bureau, the Yelp reviews average at 2.4 from 23 reviews, indicating mixed feedback. When compared to other local movers, Lausch's Moving Company is a credible option with comprehensive services tailored for local moves.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
Pros
  • Efficient service (45%)
  • Professional and polite staff (42%)
  • Good communication (37%)
Cons
  • Damage to items (19%)
  • Lack of communication (17%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (15%)
Review Analysis
Fairprice Movers has 79 customer reviews, with 82% of them being positive. Customers praised the company for its efficient service and friendly staff. Many noted that the movers were careful and professional during the process. However, some customers reported issues with communication and damage to items during the move. Overall, Fairprice Movers stands out for its reliable service, despite some areas needing improvement.
Get a Quote (717) 775-7174

Company Info

State license #: 2192738

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2192738


Fairprice Movers, established in 2013, specializes in local residential moving services around Lancaster, PA. They stand out among nearby moving companies with their comprehensive offering that includes packing, unpacking, and crating services. Highly rated by customers, Fairprice Movers boasts an impressive average rating of 4.1 on Yelp and 4.9 on Google, and they hold an A rating from the Better Business Bureau. Known for their reliability and professionalism, this company also offers the convenience of accepting credit cards with no deposit required, making them a top choice for local moves.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

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

Moving costs in other nearby Pennsylvania cities

Average cost of PODS in Lancaster, PA

PODS will cost $220–$7,448, on average, in Lancaster. 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 Lancaster 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 Lancaster 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 Lancaster, PA

The best Lancaster 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
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Average cost to rent a moving truck in Lancaster, PA

You'll definitely have to break a sweat, but moving truck rentals in Lancaster will be much easier on your wallet than full-service movers. The average cost to rent a moving truck in Lancaster 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 Lancaster rental trucks:

  • Base cost: $19–$39 per day
  • Mileage fee: $0.79–$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 Lancaster, PA

The best moving truck rentals in Lancaster 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 Lancaster, PA

The average cost of labor-only moving companies in Lancaster is an hourly rate of $69 for each crew member. Most moves — even small one-bedroom apartments — require a crew of two movers, so plan on about $138.0 per hour to hire labor assistance in Lancaster.

Best labor-only moving companies in Lancaster

The best Lancaster 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 Lancaster, PA

The biggest factor that affects the cost of movers in Lancaster, PA, 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). In order to acquire a parking permit, the individual who owns the vehicle is required to present their driver's license, along with the current registration and insurance card for the vehicle that is intended to be permitted. For more information, please visit the local city government or visit their website: https://www.cityoflancasterpa.gov/residential-permit-parking/
  • Check state licensing laws. For decades movers In Pennsylvania were regulated by the Public Utility Commission (PUC). Each company was issued a PUC Number and was required to abide by a universal publicly published tariff that established the rates movers could charge for various services. Now, some sources claim that the PUC no longer regulates in-state movers, and it appears as though the PUC’s website is no longer functioning. So if you’re moving within Pennsylvania, you’ll want to address these issues with your moving company representative and if possible, contact the state directly.
  • Invest in moving insurance. In Pennsylvania, movers typically offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For more comprehensive coverage, inquire about Full Value Protection with the moving company, or explore third-party insurance options for tailored plans. Consider coverage limits, additional costs, and reviews before making a decision.

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

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