2 or 3 Movers: How to Choose the Right Number for Your Move?

When it comes time to plan a move, one of the most important decisions you'll face is how many movers to hire. The question comes up constantly: "Are two movers enough, or should I opt for three?" The answer isn’t as simple as it seems; it depends on several key factors that we will explore in depth in this article.

The "Big Furniture" Myth: Why 3 Movers Are Sometimes More Useful for Small Items

We are often asked: "Why should I hire three movers if I don't have any large furniture or major appliances?" The reality is that the smaller and more numerous the items, the more a third mover can make a difference. It may seem counter-intuitive, but let us explain why.

The Chain Technique: Efficiency in Motion

When there are many easy-to-handle items (boxes, suitcases, bags, chairs, small tables, etc.), movers form what is known as "the chain." This method has been used for generations in the moving industry. It involves passing items from hand to hand, from the residence to the truck, in a fluid and continuous motion.

Imagine the scenario: one mover in the apartment preparing and passing items, a second in the stairs or elevator acting as the relay, and a third in the truck strategically placing each item. This orchestration eliminates downtime and maintains a steady pace throughout the move.

This technique is particularly effective when stairs or elevators are involved, as it significantly reduces back-and-forth trips and maximizes coordination. It is a job based on technique and rhythm, not just physical strength. With three people, everything is better orchestrated, stress is reduced for each worker, and the risk of errors or breakage is significantly lowered.

The Question of Safety and Endurance

Another often overlooked point: when there are more than two floors to climb or descend, a third mover becomes practically essential to maintain a good pace without putting workers at risk. Overexertion injuries are common in our industry; they often occur when two people try to maintain too fast a pace for several hours.

A fatigued mover is also more likely to make mistakes, drop objects, or damage walls and doors. With three people, the workload is better distributed, allowing everyone to maintain focus and precision throughout the day.

In Summary: The Advantages of a 3rd Mover

Faster = Fewer Billed Hours: The time saved often offsets the slightly higher hourly rate.

Less Risk = Safer Handling: Increased protection for your belongings and reduced risk of injury.

Better Coordination = Increased Efficiency: Use of the "chain technique" and optimal task distribution.

Less Fatigue = Better Service: Movers stay fit and alert from start to finish.

Comparison by Home Size

Based on an average of over 10,000 moves, here is a clear overview of how the number of movers impacts the duration and total cost. Conditions: No stairs, no elevators, good parking access (less than 15 meters), low traffic, local move (less than 30 km).

Detailed Analysis

For small homes (2½): The cost difference is minimal, but the time saved is still appreciated. If you have a tight budget and a simple move, two movers may suffice.

For medium homes (3½ to 4½): This is where the math gets interesting. For a 4½, you save money while gaining over an hour of your time. For most people, that extra hour of free time is well worth it.

For large homes (5½ and up): The savings become tangible. For a 6½, you save over $40 and finish nearly two hours earlier. Furthermore, the workload per mover is significantly reduced, resulting in higher quality service.

Conclusion: The larger the home, the more profitable a 3rd mover becomes. From a 4½ onwards, adding a 3rd mover reduces the total duration without necessarily increasing the price.

Comparison by Number of Floors (Case Study: 3½ Apartment)

Let's look at how the number of floors affects costs for the same type of home (3½). 

Conditions: No elevator, good access, local move.

The Critical Impact of Stairs

This table reveals a crucial trend: the higher you go, the more a 3rd mover becomes not only cost-effective but necessary.

• At the Ground Floor: If your budget is very tight and there are no stairs, two movers can do the job.

• From the 1st Floor up: This is the turning point. Not only does the 3rd mover save you money, but they also reduce the duration by a full hour. The "chain technique" becomes a major advantage here.

• Why stairs make the difference: Climbing stairs is the most physically demanding part of a move. With only two movers, fatigue increases, accidents become more likely, and the move takes much longer due to necessary rest breaks.

Long-Distance Moves: When 2 is Better Than 3

Climbing stairs up and down is the most physically demanding part of any move. With only two movers, each person must make countless back-and-forth trips, which:

• Increases fatigue: Tired movers work more slowly and with less precision.

• Heightens the risk of accidents: Muscle injuries are far more frequent during moves involving stairs.

• Extends the duration: Frequent rest breaks become necessary, lengthening the overall moving time.

• Increases the risk of damage: Handling items while exhausted can lead to scuffs or dents on walls, doors, and furniture.

With three movers and the "chain technique," these problems are largely mitigated. Each person stays in their designated zone, minimizes their movements, and maintains a steady pace without burning out.

In short: As soon as you go above the ground floor, a third mover becomes increasingly advantageous. From the 2nd floor up, they help reduce physical strain, speed up the rhythm, and minimize the total cost—all while significantly improving the quality of service.

Long-Distance Moving: When 2 Might Be Better Than 3

For long distances, the logic changes completely. Travel time represents the bulk of the billed time, and adding a mover increases the hourly rate without reducing the driving time.

Concrete Example: Moving a 4½ from Montreal to Toronto

Scenario with 2 Movers:

• Loading/Unloading: 5.5 hours

• Driving time (round trip): 14.5 hours

• Total: 20 hours × $120/h = $2,400

Scenario with 3 Movers:

• Loading/Unloading: 4.08 hours (save 1.42h)

• Driving time: 14.5 hours (unchanged)

• Total: 18.58 hours × $145/h = $2,694.73

The Analysis That Changes Everything

In this example, although the total time is reduced by 1.42 hours with three movers, the additional cost is nearly $295. This increase stems from the fact that the higher hourly rate applies to every hour billed, including the 14.5 hours of travel time—during which the number of movers has zero impact on speed.

As the saying goes: "A truck doesn't drive any faster with three people than it does with two."

When a 3rd Mover Might Still Be Worth It for Long Distance

There are, however, exceptions where hiring three movers can be justified, even for long-distance moves:

• Large-scale homes (6½ and up): If the loading and unloading time exceeds 6–7 hours, the time saved may eventually offset the higher hourly rate.

• Multiple floors without an elevator: If you are moving from a 4th floor to another 4th floor, the sheer physical workload justifies the investment in a third person.

• Particularly heavy items: Pianos, safes, or massive solid-wood furniture often require three people for safe and secure handling.

• Strict time constraints: If you must finish within a very tight window (e.g., key handover, strict building rules, or a specific appointment), the time gained can be worth the extra cost.

For long-distance moves, it is generally more economical to stick with two movers, as the time saved on labor is minimal compared to the overall increase in the travel-time cost. That said, always evaluate the specific factors of your move before making your final decision.

Additional Factors to Consider

Beyond charts and calculations, several elements can influence your decision:

Access Complexity

• Long Carrying Distance: If the truck must park far from the entrance (more than 30 meters), three movers become almost indispensable.

• Slow or Small Elevator: An elevator that can only fit one person with an item at a time makes the "chain technique" inefficient.

• Narrow or Challenging Streets: In certain neighborhoods, parking logistics may require a larger team to manage the truck and the perimeter.

Type and Quantity of Goods

• High Volume of Boxes: The more boxes you have, the more efficient the chain technique becomes.

• Furniture Requiring Assembly: Disassembling and reassembling furniture takes time; three people can divide these tasks more effectively.

• Fragile Items: A third person allows for more careful handling without the pressure of a ticking clock.

Your Personal Situation

• Tight Budget: For a small home with no stairs, two movers may suffice.

• Limited Time: If you must vacate the premises quickly, opt for three movers.

• Crew Experience Level: Highly experienced movers can sometimes match the efficiency of three beginners.

Time of Year

• Summer and July 1st: This is peak season. Movers are in high demand and often fatigued by back-to-back contracts.

• Winter: Harder conditions (snow, ice) slow down the work and increase risks.

• Extreme Heat: Summer heatwaves exhaust movers more quickly, slowing the overall pace.

Final Word: Ceteris Paribus (All Else Being Equal)

All these comparisons were made under equal conditions: same access, same parking distance, same volume, and no traffic or external delays. In real-life scenarios, several factors can influence the actual duration of a move, but these figures provide a solid foundation for making an informed decision.

How to Use This Information?

1. Identify your situation: Home size, number of floors, and distance.

2. Consult the charts: Compare costs and durations for your specific case.

3. Evaluate additional factors: Access, type of goods, and personal constraints.

4. Ask for advice: Do not hesitate to contact our team for a personalized evaluation.

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Our calculator is based on the analysis of over 10,000 moves. If you are hesitating between two or three movers, ask us for help! An experienced representative will evaluate your specific situation and recommend the most advantageous option for you.

How to Make the Right Choice?

Deciding between two or three movers isn't just about the immediate cost. It is a calculation that must take into account:

• The total duration and the value of your time,

• The quality of service and risk reduction,

• The well-being of the workers and the safety of your belongings,

• The logistics of your move (stairs, distance, access).

For the majority of local moves involving stairs or homes sized 4½ and larger, three movers represent the best value for your money. For long-distance moves or small ground-floor apartments with a limited budget, two movers may be sufficient.

The most important thing is to make an informed choice based on your actual situation, not on assumptions. Contact us today for a free, personalized evaluation!

Our moving services : 

• Commercial Move

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