Office Move Cost Calculator
Moving commercial furniture is nothing like a residential move. Systems furniture has to be disassembled, transported, and reassembled by trained crews. Building access, elevator reservations, and COI requirements add complexity and cost. This tool accounts for the variables that most generic moving calculators miss.
How many people are moving?
Estimated pieces: 300–400 items
Based on ~6–8 pieces per person (desk, chair, pedestal, monitor arm, etc.)
What type of move is this?
Building complexity factors
Additional services needed
What Drives Commercial Moving Costs
Commercial furniture moves are priced by labor hours, truck requirements, and complexity — not weight like residential moves. A single floor with open-plan desking might take a 4-person crew one day. A multi-floor move with panel systems, specialty items (glass, AV equipment), and after-hours requirements can take a full week. The calculator factors in these variables to give you a realistic range.
Building complexity is the biggest cost variable most people underestimate. High-rise buildings with strict freight elevator schedules, loading dock reservations, and Certificate of Insurance (COI) requirements can add 20-30% to base costs. Ground-floor moves with dock access are the least expensive scenario. Multi-site moves (consolidating two offices into one, for example) add coordination overhead.
Systems furniture — cubicles, benching, and modular walls — is the most expensive category to move because it requires trained installers (not just movers) to properly disassemble and reassemble. If you're moving panel systems, make sure the moving company has experience with your specific manufacturer's product. A crew that's never taken apart a Steelcase Answer system will take twice as long as one that does it weekly.
Cost-Saving Tips
Move over a weekend to avoid business disruption and sometimes get better crew availability. Purge before you move — liquidate or donate furniture you won't need at the new space (moving costs exceed replacement costs for cheap furniture). Get the building's move rules early so there are no surprises on move day. And always get 3 quotes — pricing varies significantly between firms.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to move commercial office furniture?
Commercial furniture moves typically cost $500-$2,000 for small offices (under 20 workstations), $2,000-$10,000 for mid-size moves (20-75 workstations), and $10,000-$50,000+ for large-scale relocations. Costs depend on furniture type (systems furniture costs more to move than freestanding), building complexity, distance, and whether after-hours or weekend work is required.
What is the difference between a commercial furniture move and a regular office move?
Commercial furniture moves require trained installers, not just movers. Systems furniture (cubicles, panel systems, benching) must be properly disassembled and reassembled following manufacturer specifications to maintain warranty coverage. General movers can handle freestanding furniture but typically cannot disassemble or reassemble commercial systems furniture.
How far in advance should I book an office furniture move?
Book 2-3 weeks ahead for small moves and 4-6 weeks for large or complex moves. During busy seasons (Q4 and January), book 6-8 weeks out. You will also need time to coordinate building requirements — loading dock reservations, elevator schedules, and Certificate of Insurance (COI) documentation.
Should I move my old furniture or buy new?
If moving costs exceed 40-50% of the replacement cost, it is usually more economical to liquidate the existing furniture and buy new or pre-owned at the destination. This is especially true for older furniture (10+ years), heavily worn product, or furniture that does not fit the new space layout. A dealer can help you evaluate the trade-offs.