How Long Does a Move Take in Los Angeles? (By Home Size)

One of the most common questions we get before a move: "How many hours will this take?" Here are honest estimates based on thousands of LA moves, along with the factors that push a move longer or shorter.

Estimated move times in Los Angeles by home size

Rates: 2 movers $99/hr, 3 movers $139/hr, 4 movers $179/hr. California double drive time applies.

What adds time to an LA move

• Stairs with no elevator: Each flight adds 10–20 minutes per load direction for a typical apartment.
• Long carry distance: If the truck must park more than 75 feet from your door (common on Hollywood Hills streets), each trip takes longer.
• Elevator wait time: In high-rises, elevator holds must be reserved in advance. Without one, 20–30 minutes of wait time per load is common.
• Partial packing: If boxes aren't fully sealed and labeled when the crew arrives, the clock runs while they help pack.
• Parking delays: No permit = the truck circles. Best Movers LA arranges no-parking permits with the city before move day.
• Awkward items: L-shaped sofas that won't fit the stairs, treadmills, large TV units — each adds 15–30 minutes to disassemble and maneuver.

What cuts time

• All boxes fully packed, sealed and labeled by destination room before the crew arrives
• Furniture that can stay assembled (movers can wrap it in place)
• Parking reserved and cleared in advance
• Elevator hold secured for the move window
• Clear path from every room to the front door

The double drive time rule

California law (CPUC) requires licensed movers to charge double the drive time between your origin and destination. A 20-minute drive between homes is billed as 40 minutes. This applies to every licensed mover in CA — companies that skip it are usually unlicensed. It's built into all our estimates.

How Best Movers LA keeps moves on schedule

Before move day, our dispatch team confirms parking permits, elevator holds, and any building-specific requirements so the crew doesn't lose clock time solving logistics on-site. Crew leaders do a quick walkthrough on arrival to flag anything that needs special attention — no surprises mid-move.

Related questions

Full LA moving cost & FAQ guide →