If you’re planning a move across town in Philadelphia (or any city), you’re probably wondering: How long will it take? While every move is unique, local relocations tend to follow predictable timelines depending on the size of the home, the amount of belongings, and the moving conditions.
Average Moving Times by Home Size
Studio or Small 1-Bedroom: 3–5 hours
1-Bedroom Apartment: 4–6 hours
2-Bedroom Apartment/Small Home: 6–8 hours
3-Bedroom Home: 8–10 hours
4+ Bedroom Home: 10+ hours (often requires multiple days or larger crews)
Factors That Affect Moving Time
Amount of Stuff: More boxes and furniture = longer move.
Stairs and Elevators: Walk-ups or slow elevators add time.
Distance Between Locations: Even short drives can take longer with Philly traffic or parking challenges.
Packing and Preparation: Moves are faster if everything is boxed, labeled, and furniture is disassembled beforehand.
Crew Size: Two movers will take longer than three or four.
Tips to Speed Up Your Move
Pack in advance: Don’t wait until moving day to finish boxing items.
Label clearly: Movers can unload boxes faster when they know which room they belong in.
Reserve parking: Save time by ensuring the truck can park close to your home.
Communicate: Share any special instructions (fragile items, disassembly needs) beforehand.
Final Thought
On average, a local move can take anywhere from 3 to 10 hours, depending on your home size and preparation. The more organized you are — and the more movers you hire — the quicker and smoother the process will be.
👉 For efficient local moving services in Philadelphia, visit GoGo Movers.