What packing services do
Most movers offer packing as an add-on: full packing of the whole home, partial packing of the kitchen or fragile items, and unpacking at the new home. Professional packing reduces the risk of damage and saves a lot of time.
What's usually included
- Boxes, paper, wrap and specialty cartons
- Packing of fragile items, artwork and electronics
- Labeling by room
- Optional unpacking and debris removal
Who it's for
Busy households, long-distance moves, and anyone with fragile or valuable items.
What affects the cost
- How much you want packed
- Materials used
- Specialty crating for art, mirrors or antiques
Rough planning ranges by home size and distance: how much movers cost.
Find packing services by city
Our city directories list every mover registered with FMCSA in each area, with registration age, fleet size and authority status.
| City | Registered movers | Interstate authority | In-state only |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York, NY | 178 | 127 | 46 |
| Los Angeles, CA | 243 | 96 | 137 |
| Chicago, IL | 136 | 102 | 28 |
| Houston, TX | 230 | 81 | 142 |
| Phoenix, AZ | 134 | 68 | 60 |
| Dallas, TX | 307 | 118 | 178 |
| Austin, TX | 139 | 46 | 90 |
| San Diego, CA | 111 | 32 | 77 |
| Miami, FL | 274 | 148 | 118 |
| Tampa, FL | 105 | 40 | 61 |
Source: FMCSA Company Census File, data as of 2026-11-15.
How to compare companies
- Get at least three written estimates, ideally after a video or in-home survey.
- Compare the same things: services included, valuation coverage, dates and the type of estimate.
- Check licensing: the USDOT number for interstate moves, and any state license for in-state moves. See how to check a moving company.
- Be wary of quotes far below the rest. Moving scam red flags.
Questions to ask before hiring
- Are materials included in the price?
- Can you pack only the kitchen and fragile items?
- Are items I pack myself covered the same way if damaged?