How to Determine if a Self-Move Is Right for You

Moving is one of life’s biggest transitions — and one of its biggest logistical puzzles. Whether you’re heading across town or across the country, one of your first major decisions will be whether to move yourself or hire professional movers. Both options have their advantages and drawbacks, and the right choice depends on your budget, schedule, and how hands-on you want to be.

U-Haul offers a range of DIY moving options — from trucks to portable storage containers — so you can move on your own schedule and budget. This guide breaks down the pros and cons of a DIY move vs. professional movers, along with what you’ll need to make a self-move successful and how the costs compare.

Should You Move Yourself?

For a self-move (or DIY move), you handle most or all parts of the move on your own, from packing and loading to driving the truck and unpacking in your new home. Many people choose this route to save money and maintain full control of their belongings, while others prefer to leave the heavy lifting to the professionals.

Factors like your budget, timeline, physical ability, and personal preferences should all weigh into your decision. If you’re comfortable driving a moving truck, have a few reliable helpers, and want to move on your own schedule, a self-move could be the best option. If you’re short on time or need help with heavy furniture or specialty items, hiring movers might make more sense.

8 Pros and Cons of a DIY Move

Pros:

• Cost savings: Renting a truck and doing the work yourself is typically less expensive than hiring movers. You only pay for the equipment and supplies you need.
• Control: You decide how your items are packed, loaded, and transported.
• Flexible timing: You can move at your own pace, whether that’s over a weekend or spread out across several days.
• Sense of accomplishment: Many people enjoy the hands-on experience of managing their own move.
• Less potential for damage: No one cares about your belongings more than you. Even if you are using professional movers, there’s a higher risk of others damaging your items during loading or unloading.

Cons:

• Physical effort: Lifting furniture, boxes, and appliances can be strenuous and time-consuming without the right equipment.
• Logistics: You’ll be responsible for securing packing supplies, arranging helpers, and driving the truck.
• Unexpected costs: Fuel, tolls, and extra packing materials can add up without proper planning.

8 Pros and Cons of Hiring Movers

Pros:

• Convenience: Professional movers handle the heavy lifting, loading, and transport, which can greatly reduce stress.
  Efficiency: Experienced crews can often complete faster than the average DIY mover.
• Insurance coverage: Many moving companies offer protection plans for your belongings.
• Ideal for long-distance or complex moves: Professionals can simplify moves that require multiple stops, large homes, or special handling.

Cons:

• Higher cost: Full-service movers are the most expensive option.
• Less control: You’ll need to work within the mover’s schedule and policies.
• Trust factor: It takes research and diligence to find a reputable moving company.
• Possible delays or damages: Even experienced movers can have setb acks, especially during busy seasons.

What You Need to Make a DIY Move

If you decide a self-move is the right fit, planning is key. Here’s what you’ll need to make it go smoothly:

Planning: Create a timeline that includes booking your truck, purchasing supplies, and recruiting help. Give yourself plenty of time to pack and prepare.

Packing: Stock up on moving boxes, tape, bubble pack, and labeling supplies. Pack your belongings room by room and clearly categorize boxes to make unloading easier. With U-Haul buy back guarantee, we offer 100% buy-back for any unused U-Haul boxes.

Loading and lifting: Use moving tools like furniture dollies, moving straps, and blankets to protect both your items and your back. Enlist a few friends or hire local Moving Help® labor providers to assist with the heavy lifting.

Transportation: Choose the right size moving truck for your home size and distance. Be sure to check the driving route, fuel stops, and parking options before moving day.

Unpacking: Once you arrive, unload essentials first, such as bedding, toiletries, and kitchen items. Take your time organizing the rest of your belongings.

Costs of a DIY Move vs Professional Movers

When comparing a DIY move vs professional movers, the biggest factor is cost. A self-move can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars, depending on distance and the size of your move.

DIY move costs typically include:

• Truck rental
• Gas and mileage
• Packing supplies
• Moving Helper (optional)

Professional mover costs typically include:

• Labor (packing, loading, driving, and unloading)
• Truck and equipment
• Insurance or protection plans
• Potential surcharges for stairs, long carries, or heavy items

For example, a local move with a rented U-Haul truck might cost just a few hundred dollars, while hiring full-service movers for the same job could run well over a thousand. Long-distance moves show an even greater gap.

Moving Companies	Cost
U-Haul 15’ Truck with Moving Help (2 Hours)	$2,446.95
Two Men and a Truck	$8,139.27
24/7 Logistic Services	$5,421.50
Moving ATP	$6,000

Moving from Los Angeles, CA (90064) to Austin, TX (78704), no moving insurance was used in any quote, using a 2-bedroom size as standard, with an average amount of items. Loading and unloading services are included in Two Men and a Truck, 24/7 Logistic Services, and Moving ATP. Quotes sourced October, 2025.

Ultimately, a U-Haul self-move gives you control over your budget, so you pay only for the help and equipment you actually need.

Curious how much you could save? Get a free U-Haul quote today and compare for yourself.

 

Make a Self-Move with U-Haul

If you decide to move yourself, U-Haul makes it easy to do it right. With a wide range of truck sizes, U-Box® portable storage containers, and packing supplies, you can customize your move to fit your needs and budget. You can even hire vetted local labor through Moving Help for loading, unloading, or cleaning assistance.

A self-move isn’t just about saving money — it’s about taking control of your move, your schedule, and your peace of mind. With U-Haul, you get the flexibility and support to make it happen confidently.