Time is one of the most important factors when planning a local move. Whether you’re relocating across town or just down the street, one of the first questions homeowners ask is, “How long will it take?” While every move is different, professional moving companies like Ottawa Pro local movers are trained to complete local relocations with speed, efficiency, and care.
So, what really determines how quickly a move can be completed? The answer depends on a mix of factors including the size of your home, the complexity of your belongings, and how well-prepared you are before moving day.
1. Size and Scope of the Move
The size of your home is the most obvious factor. Here’s a rough breakdown of how long professional movers typically take for local moves:
- Studio or 1-bedroom apartment: 2 to 4 hours
- 2-bedroom apartment or small house: 4 to 6 hours
- 3-bedroom house: 6 to 8 hours
- 4+ bedroom home: 8 to 10 hours or more
These estimates assume you’ve already packed your belongings and the moving crew has easy access to both the old and new location.
2. Packing Services (or Lack Thereof)
If you hire movers to pack your home in addition to transporting it, the move will take longer—but often not by much. Professional packers are trained to box up rooms quickly and systematically. In many cases, a team can fully pack a 2-bedroom home in 3 to 5 hours the day before or on the morning of the move.
However, if you pack yourself and are not fully prepared when the movers arrive, this can add unexpected delays and slow down the entire day.
3. Accessibility and Logistics
The layout of your home and neighborhood can speed things up or slow them down. For instance:
- Elevators vs. stairs: Elevator access can help—if it’s available and reserved. Otherwise, stairs add time.
- Distance from truck to door: Long walks between your door and the truck increase loading/unloading times.
- Traffic or construction: Local traffic or access limitations (like narrow streets) can delay transport.
Professional movers will often ask these questions during your pre-move consultation to provide accurate timing estimates.
4. Experience and Team Size
A seasoned crew of three movers can complete a job much faster than a small or inexperienced team. Reputable companies will adjust the number of movers depending on your home’s size and complexity. More movers often mean higher hourly costs—but a faster, smoother move that may end up costing the same or less overall.
5. Special Handling Requirements
If your move includes heavy, fragile, or unusual items—like a piano, safe, or antiques—this may require extra preparation, equipment, or additional movers. These items slow the process slightly but are often handled simultaneously with the rest of your belongings to keep the schedule tight.
6. Unpacking and Reassembly
Most local moves include reassembly of basic furniture at the new home. This might add an hour or two, depending on how much needs to be reassembled. If you’ve requested full unpacking services, that can add a few extra hours but saves you time in the days ahead.
Conclusion
A well-coordinated local move doesn’t need to take all day—or all weekend. With the right preparation and a professional team, even a multi-bedroom household can be relocated in under eight hours. Companies like Ottawa Pro local movers bring not just muscle, but efficiency, experience, and planning to ensure your move is quick and stress-free.
