Real differences that save you time, money, and stress

For small apartments or condos, two movers with a truck usually cost from $149 per hour, or from $169 per hour for three movers and a truck. Larger jobs definitely make sense with three to six movers; that higher hourly rate can actually lower your final bill because a bigger crew gets you moved faster. Our price always covers the truck, professional labor, fuel, shrink wrap, moving pads, straps and wardrobe boxes. We never tack on hidden fees for things like stairs or fuel – everything is rolled into one simple hourly rate. Besides the hourly rates, flat rates are also available upon request, or you can simply request a fixed price quote on our website.

Summer is busy season in the moving world. Data show that May through September is peak time, with June, July and August being the most hectic months. Moves during that window cost more and book up faster, so we recommend reserving a date at least a couple of weeks in advance. If you can move mid‑month or mid‑week, you’ll usually find better rates and more availability. Outside the busy months, a few days’ notice is usually enough.

Yes, we have a three‑hour minimum for local jobs. Most studios and one‑bedrooms fit within 3-5 hour window (when move locally). For bigger homes, each additional hour is billed at the same hourly rate; you only pay for the time you use.

Every move is different. A small apartment can often be finished in around 3-5 hours, while a three‑bedroom house might take 7-10 hours or more. The total time depends on the size of your home, the distance travelled, the number of movers, access conditions (stairs, elevators), and any additional services such as packing or specialty item handling. Clearing hallways, reserving elevators, and parking the truck close to the entrance can shave off a surprising amount of time. Packing and labelling boxes in advance and clearing pathways will help our crew work efficiently. To get an accurate estimate, please contact us with your move details; we provide free, no‑obligation quotes.

Absolutely. We offer full and partial packing services. Our basic rate includes shrink wrap, moving blankets, tape and use of wardrobe boxes. If you’d like us to pack your kitchen or delicate items, we’ll bring extra supplies (like dish boxes, picture boxes and packing paper) for a small fee. If you prefer to do your own packing, we’re happy to focus solely on loading, transporting and unloading your boxes.

For apartments and smaller homes we use 12‑foot trucks; larger homes and offices get a 26‑foot truck. A 26‑foot truck holds the contents of most 3‑ or 4‑bedroom homes. For very large moves we can run multiple trucks or make two trips – we’ll discuss the best plan when we prepare your quote.

Yes. Inland Empire Movers operates under state license BHGS #191375. We carry the legally required cargo insurance, which provides 60 cents per pound per item. This coverage is minimal, so we recommend purchasing additional valuation protection for high‑value items. We can arrange additional valuation coverage if needed. Our crews are employees, not day‑laborers, and we are fully compliant with state and federal regulations.

We’re based in Riverside and work throughout the Inland Empire. That includes Riverside, Corona, Eastvale, Jurupa Valley, Norco, Moreno Valley, and San Bernardino County cities like Chino, Chino Hills, Ontario, Upland, Rancho Cucamonga, Fontana, Rialto, Redlands, Highland, Loma Linda, Grand Terrace, Bloomington, San Dimas, Montclair, La Verne and San Bernardino. We also handle moves into or out of Los Angeles and Orange counties. If your city isn’t listed, just ask—we’ll let you know if we can help.

We do not move single items, store or online marketplace purchases, pool tables, spas, oversized equipment, shipping containers, mobile homes, or sheds. Additionally, we do not offer out-of-state moves, truck rentals, pallet jack or forklift services. For safety reasons, movers are not allowed to transport hazardous materials such as gasoline, propane tanks, firearms, chemicals or fireworks. We also cannot move pets or reptiles, and plants may be transported only at the customer’s risk. Valuables like cash, jewelry, important documents and heirlooms should always travel with you. If you’re unsure about a particular item, ask us and we’ll guide you.

For local moves, we start the clock when the crew arrives at your home and stop it when the last item is unloaded and your furniture is reassembled. For moves within our normal service area we don’t charge for the drive to or from our warehouse/parking. If the driving distance between your locations is over 15 miles the double driver time applies by the state law regulations. If you’re outside our local radius or moving long distance, a travel or mileage fee may apply. We’ll explain any additional charges ahead of time.

We accept major credit and debit cards, cash, Zelle, and installments through Klarna. Final payment is due upon delivery or completion of your move. To lock in your date we may ask for a $75 deposit, which goes toward your final balance, unless you cancel your reservation. If you need to change or cancel your move, let us know as soon as possible to avoid a cancellation fee (we have a 72-hour cancellation policy).

Here are a few steps that make moving day smoother:

•   Declutter and pack early. Donate or sell things you no longer need. Label boxes clearly with room names and contents.
•   Reserve elevators and parking. If you live in a building, secure elevator times and clear a place for the truck to park.
•   Protect your home. Lay down blankets or cardboard runners to keep floors and walls safe. We bring additional floor protection and shrink wrap.
•   Prepare appliances. Unplug and thoroughly dry refrigerators and freezers; disconnect water lines and let them air out . Stop using your dishwasher a few days before the move, clean and dry it, and disconnect hoses . Washers and dryers should be drained, and gas lines must be disconnected and capped by a qualified technician. Ovens and ranges should be wiped clean, with gas lines professionally disconnected. Remove and wrap microwave trays and don’t wedge cardboard in the door.
•   Watch the weather. If rain or snow is predicted, call us the day before. Many movers only postpone for severe snowstorms; a little rain rarely stops a move. We bring floor coverings, plastic wrap and extra padding to keep your belongings dry. In snow, we bring salt, but clearing and salting pathways beforehand helps prevent delays l.
•   Keep essentials with you. Pack a suitcase or tote with medications, chargers, a change of clothes and important papers.
•   Communicate with your movers. Share any special instructions (fragile items, valuable artwork) so our team can plan accordingly.

Tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s a nice way to thank your crew for their hard work. A good guideline is $4–$10 per mover per hour, depending on the difficulty of the job . For all‑day moves, many people give $20 or more per mover. Tips should reflect the quality of service and how complicated the move was. You can tip each mover individually in cash, or hand one envelope to the crew leader, or tip on the credits card.

Yes. We provide short‑term and long‑term storage in clean, secure facilities. Bundling your storage with the moving company can simplify scheduling, eliminate the hassle of moving twice and reduce the risk of damage. We’ll help you choose the right option whether you need a temporary solution during a remodel or long‑term storage while you search for a new home.

We do everything we can to protect your belongings, but if damage occurs you should let us know immediately. For in‑state moves, we require that you file a written claim within 24 hours; the moving company then has 30 days to acknowledge the claim and up to 120 days to resolve it.

Yes. Moving a grand piano, antique sideboard or priceless painting requires special training and equipment. Professional movers use custom crates, protective materials like bubble wrap, and proper tools and ramps to lift and load heavy or fragile items. When you book, let us know about any specialty items so we can schedule enough movers and the right gear. Our teams have moved everything from upright pianos to chandeliers—your treasures are in good hands.