How to Choose the Best Moving Company in Singapore: 2026 Price Guide
Choosing the right moving company in Singapore requires understanding three critical factors: actual pricing for your home size, the specific services included, and how to verify a mover's reliability. In 2026, moving costs range from S$188 for a half-load studio move to S$2,500+ for large 5-room HDB flats and condominiums, but the final price depends heavily on what services you actually need and which company you select.
This guide helps you navigate the moving company selection process with real 2026 Singapore pricing data, practical evaluation criteria, and insider tips to avoid overpaying or compromising on quality. Whether you're relocating within the same town or across Singapore, understanding these factors ensures you get fair pricing and reliable service.
Understanding Moving Costs by Home Size in Singapore 2026
Moving prices in Singapore vary dramatically based on your property type and the volume of items being moved. The most important factor is understanding which category your home falls into, as this determines your baseline cost range.
Studio apartments and 1-bedroom units typically cost S$188–S$600 for a single lorry load. Budget movers like Moving Kaki quote as low as S$188 for a half load with basic wrapping and 2–3 workers in a 15ft covered truck. This works well if you're leaving most furniture behind or moving into a furnished rental.
2–3 room HDB flats fall into the S$400–S$1,200 range depending on service level. A basic 3-room HDB relocation with wrapping and minimal disassembly typically costs S$450–S$600, while premium full-service options with packing and unpacking reach S$1,200. This is where most Singapore homeowners fall, and pricing varies significantly between budget and premium providers.
4–5 room HDB flats and condominiums require multiple lorry loads and cost S$600–S$2,500. A standard 4-room move with basic services runs approximately S$850, while comprehensive 5-room relocations with full packing services reach S$1,200–S$2,500. Landed properties typically cost S$1,500–S$6,000+ due to their size and complexity.
Breaking Down the Three Pricing Models
Singapore moving companies use different pricing structures, and understanding these models helps you get accurate quotes and avoid surprises on moving day.
Fixed-Rate Pricing (Recommended)
Most established Singapore movers now offer fixed-rate packages based on lorry loads, which provide the best cost predictability. These packages include manpower, transportation, and basic wrapping. Typical fixed rates in 2026 are:
- Single lorry load (half load): S$250–S$350
- One full load: S$250–S$450
- Two loads: S$500–S$700
- Three loads: S$700–S$1,000
- Five loads: S$950–S$1,500
Fixed-rate pricing is ideal because you know your total cost upfront with no surprises. This is the safest option for budget-conscious homeowners.
Hourly Rate Pricing
Some movers charge by the hour at S$70–S$120 per hour, typically requiring a minimum of 2–4 hours. This model works for smaller moves or if you're unsure of the exact scope. However, hourly rates can become expensive if the job takes longer than expected, making them less predictable than fixed rates.
Service-Based Pricing
Premium movers often bundle additional services (packing, unpacking, assembly, disposal) into tiered packages. Budget movers charge S$300–S$600, established value-for-money providers like Rodex Movers quote around S$430, while premium movers like Soon Seng Transport and Elite Movers charge S$600 or more. The difference reflects service quality and experience.
What Services Are Actually Included?
Not all moving companies offer the same services, and this is where costs diverge significantly. Understanding what's included in each service tier prevents hidden charges.
Budget movers (transport only) provide the lorry, manpower, and basic wrapping materials. They'll move your items but won't disassemble furniture, pack boxes, or handle disposal. This is suitable if you've already packed everything and just need transportation.
Standard movers add wrapping, basic disassembly of beds and simple furniture, and protective coverings. This mid-tier option (S$600–S$1,500 for 4-room moves) suits most homeowners who want reasonable protection without premium pricing.
Full-service movers include complete packing, unpacking, furniture assembly, and even disposal of old items. These premium services cost S$1,500–S$2,500+ for larger moves but eliminate almost all your moving day stress. They're worth considering if you have valuable items, limited time, or mobility concerns.
Always ask specifically what's included: Are boxes and packing materials provided? Is furniture disassembly and reassembly included? What about disposal of old furniture? These details dramatically affect your final cost.
Five Critical Factors That Affect Moving Costs
Beyond home size and service level, several factors push prices up or down. Understanding these helps you negotiate better rates and avoid unnecessary charges.
1. Distance and Location
Local moves within 15km (most Singapore moves) have standard pricing. However, moves to distant locations like Changi, Tuas, or Jurong West may incur travel surcharges. A 2-room HDB move from Bukit Batok to Commonwealth (under 15km) typically costs S$300–S$400 with 2 movers, but longer distances may add S$100–S$200.
2. Timing and Demand
Month-end moves (25th–31st) are significantly more expensive due to high demand. Weekday moves cost less than weekend moves. Moving during Chinese New Year, year-end holidays, or school holidays also increases prices by 20–30%. If flexible, schedule your move mid-month on a weekday for the best rates.
3. HDB and Condo Lift Booking
HDB blocks require advance lift booking through your town council, which is free but mandatory. However, if your building has limited lift availability or your move requires extended hours, some movers charge lift coordination fees (S$50–S$150). Condominiums often have MCST-imposed restrictions on moving hours and may require additional deposits or fees.
4. Specialised Items
Piano moving adds S$150–S$300 to your quote. Artwork, antiques, or fragile items requiring special handling increase costs. Large appliances like refrigerators or washing machines may require additional equipment or expertise. Always declare specialised items when getting quotes.
5. Fuel and Labour Cost Increases
2026 pricing reflects increases in fuel costs and labour rates per Ministry of Manpower data. Budget movers remain competitive, but established providers have raised rates 10–15% compared to 2025. This is normal and reflects Singapore's rising operational costs.
How to Evaluate and Choose a Reliable Moving Company
Price alone shouldn't determine your choice. Homejourney's approach prioritizes user safety and trust by helping you evaluate movers comprehensively.
Step 1: Get Multiple Quotes
Contact at least 3–5 moving companies for quotes. Provide identical details (home size, items, date, distance) so you can compare apples-to-apples. Most companies offer free quotes within 24 hours. Don't accept the first quote—comparison shopping typically reveals 20–30% price variations for identical moves.
Step 2: Verify Company Credentials
Check if the mover is registered with the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and has valid business registration. Ask about insurance coverage—reputable movers carry liability insurance protecting your items during transit. Request their insurance certificate before booking. Avoid companies that can't provide proof of insurance or registration.
Step 3: Read Verified Customer Reviews
On Homejourney, all moving company reviews are verified from actual customers who've used the service. Look for patterns: Are items arriving damaged? Do movers show up on time? Is the final bill accurate to the quote? One negative review isn't concerning, but consistent complaints about damage, delays, or hidden charges are red flags. Companies with 4.5+ ratings and 20+ reviews are generally reliable.
Step 4: Ask About Hidden Charges
Before confirming, explicitly ask: Are there charges for lift booking, waiting time, or assembly? What happens if the move takes longer than estimated? Are packing materials included or charged separately? Do you charge for disposal of old furniture? Getting these answers in writing prevents surprises on moving day.
Step 5: Check Availability and Flexibility
Confirm the company can accommodate your preferred moving date and has backup options if issues arise. Reliable movers maintain open communication and provide a contact person for your move. They should respond to messages within a few hours, not days.
Budget Movers vs Premium Movers: What's the Real Difference?
Singapore's moving market has clear tiers, and understanding the differences helps you choose the right fit for your budget and needs.
Budget movers (S$300–S$600 for 3-room moves) like Moving Kaki offer the lowest prices by minimising overhead. They provide basic transportation and wrapping but limited extras. These work well for straightforward moves with packed boxes and minimal furniture disassembly. The trade-off: less experience handling complex moves and potentially higher damage risk.
Established value-for-money movers (S$430–S$800 for 3-room moves) like Rodex Movers balance affordability with reliability. They have more experience, better equipment, and trained staff. Most homeowners find this tier offers the best value—reasonable pricing without sacrificing quality.
Premium movers (S$600+ for 3-room moves) like Soon Seng Transport and Elite Movers provide full-service solutions with packing, unpacking, assembly, and premium care. They handle complex moves, valuable items, and provide white-glove service. Choose this tier if you have limited time, valuable items, or prefer minimal stress.
For most Singapore homeowners, the established value-for-money tier offers the best balance. You avoid the lowest-cost providers' reliability risks while staying well under premium pricing.
Practical Tips to Reduce Moving Costs
Beyond choosing the right company, several strategies reduce your overall moving expenses.
- Declutter before moving: Sell or donate items you don't need. This reduces volume, lowers costs, and simplifies your new space. Many people spend S$100–S$300 extra moving items they don't want.
- Book 2–4 weeks in advance: Early booking secures better rates and preferred dates. Last-minute bookings (within 1 week) incur rush fees of 20–30%.
- Move mid-month or weekday: Avoid month-end and weekends when demand peaks. Weekday moves cost 15–20% less than weekend moves.
- Pack yourself: If you're comfortable packing, do it yourself instead of paying for full packing services. This saves S$200–S$400.
- Combine services: Some movers offer discounts if you bundle moving with furniture disposal. Ask about package deals.
- Be flexible with timing: If your moving date is flexible, ask movers for their cheapest available dates. Some companies offer discounts for filling gaps in their schedule.
Why Homejourney Makes Choosing a Mover Safer and Easier
Homejourney's platform addresses the core challenge in Singapore's moving market: how to find reliable, fairly-priced movers without wasting time on multiple phone calls and unverified reviews.
Verified providers: All moving companies on Homejourney are vetted for credentials, insurance, and business registration. You won't encounter unregistered operators or companies with hidden complaints.
Transparent pricing: Get upfront, fixed-rate quotes with no hidden charges. The quote you see is the price you pay—no surprises on moving day.
Real customer reviews: Every review comes from verified customers who've actually used the service. You see patterns in reliability, punctuality, and care for your items.
Easy comparison: Compare multiple movers' quotes, reviews, and services in one place. No need to call five companies separately.
Service guarantee: If issues arise, Homejourney's support team helps mediate between you and the mover, protecting your interests.
Get instant quotes from verified movers on Homejourney and book with confidence knowing you've chosen a reliable provider.
