Hiring Movers vs. DIY: The Best Way To Move a Mattress

Moving can be an exciting time, but figuring out the best way to move large items like a mattress may catch you by surprise. Looking over all the various price tags that pop up during a move begs the question: Should you hire professional movers or tackle it yourself?

Let’s explore the benefits and disadvantages of each option so you can make the best decision for your belongings and your wallet.

Benefits of Hiring a Moving Company

One of the most significant advantages of hiring a moving company is convenience. Professional movers have the experience and equipment needed to handle your mattress and other bulky items responsibly. They’ll save you time and physical effort by managing everything from packing to transporting your belongings.

Another key benefit is safety. Movers are trained to lift heavy objects safely, reducing the risk of injury to you or damage to your mattress. Professional movers also often help protect your items through insurance or liability coverage, giving you peace of mind if something unexpected happens along the way.

Drawbacks of Hiring a Moving Company

Despite these benefits, hiring movers has some downsides, the most obvious being cost. Professional moving services can be expensive, especially if you move a long distance or have numerous heavy items. Costs can add up quickly, including fees for packing materials, labor hours, travel charges, and insurance coverage.

You should also book a moving company well in advance of your move, especially during peak moving seasons. This lack of flexibility could complicate your timeline if your move date changes unexpectedly.

How Much Does a Moving Company Cost

The cost of hiring professional movers varies significantly based on distance, item amount and weight, and your geographic location. On average, local moves cost around $1,250, while long-distance moves might cost closer to $5,000. To move just a mattress locally, you’ll likely spend around $25 to $50 per hour, depending on the company and any additional services requested.

Always request quotes from multiple companies and ask about hidden fees to make sure you’re getting the best deal possible.

Benefits of Moving Yourself

If you’re on a tight budget or prefer complete control over the moving process, doing it yourself might be the right choice. Moving your mattress yourself can significantly cut costs, especially if you borrow a vehicle or already have a suitable truck or van.

Another key advantage of DIY moving is flexibility. You can move at your own pace, adjusting your schedule as needed, without worrying about appointment times or booking windows. This flexibility is perfect if your moving dates change or if you want to move gradually over several days.

Drawbacks of Moving Yourself

DIY moving, however, does come with its challenges. Physically moving a mattress is demanding and poses risks of injury or damage. Mattresses are typically bulky, heavy, and difficult to maneuver, especially through doorways or up and down staircases.

Plus, the logistics of renting or borrowing a vehicle, purchasing packing supplies, and coordinating help from friends or family can quickly become stressful and time-consuming. You may not save that much money in the long run.

Tips for Moving a Mattress

If you choose the DIY route, these tips can help make sure your mattress arrives at your new home in great shape:

• Use a mattress storage bag to keep your mattress clean and protected from moisture and dirt.
• Securely tie down your mattress in the moving vehicle to prevent shifting or damage.
• Always ask for help—moving a mattress is usually a two-person job.
• Avoid bending or folding your mattress, especially memory foam or innerspring mattresses, to prevent permanent damage.

How To Pack a Mattress for Moving

Properly packing your mattress for a move can make all the difference in protecting it. Follow these simple steps:

• Clean your mattress thoroughly by vacuuming and spot cleaning.
• Slip your mattress into a durable mattress storage bag. Make sure it’s sealed tight to keep out dirt and moisture.
• Reinforce the bag with tape, especially around corners and edges.
• Label the mattress clearly to avoid confusion during unloading.

Tips for Storing a Mattress

If your new home isn’t ready or you need temporary storage, learning how to properly store a mattress can prevent damage and extend its life span:

• Always store your mattress flat to prevent sagging or distortion.
• Get a mattress storage bag for protection against dust, moisture, and pests.
• Use a climate-controlled storage space to help limit temperature extremes that could damage your mattress.
• Avoid placing heavy items on top of the mattress while in storage.

Find a Spot for Your Mattress at Access Self Storage

Whether you’re in between homes or simply need more space, Access Self Storage has the ideal residential storage units for packing away your mattress and other belongings, no matter how big or small. Our climate-controlled storage units offer a shield and shelter from the elements, helping your mattress remain in great condition.Call us today to find the ideal storage unit for your home! With convenient locations in Connecticut, New Jersey, Maine, and New York, finding a suitable storage spot for your mattress and belongings has never been easier. Numerous Access Self Storage locations in New Jersey and New York even offer moving assistance with access to a moving truck