One of the most common questions we hear is:
“Do you charge extra for stairs or elevators?”
Our answer is simple and intentional:
No.
We do not charge stair fees or elevator fees.
Instead, we account for access conditions the fairest way possible—by charging for the time it actually takes to complete your move correctly and safely.
Why We Don’t Use Stair or Elevator Fees
Many moving companies add flat “stair fees” or “elevator fees” that feel arbitrary and confusing.
At Two Marines Moving, we take a different approach:
- no surprise add‑ons,
- no nickel‑and‑diming,
- no made‑up fees.
Time reflects effort.
That keeps pricing fair for you and fair for our team.
Floors, Stairs, and Walk‑Ups
Access matters because it directly affects how long it takes to move each item.
- First‑floor moves are always the fastest option, all else being equal.
- Additional floors and stairs increase the amount of work per item.
- A 4th‑floor walk‑up is a meaningful inflection point.
4th‑Floor Walk‑Up Guideline
A 4th‑floor walk‑up typically:
- requires a third mover, and
- places the move in the 5.5 to 8.0 hour range, with a true average around 6.5 hours, depending on layout and inventory.
This isn’t a penalty—it’s a realistic adjustment that ensures:
- steady pace,
- safer handling,
- and consistent execution.
Elevators: Not All Elevators Are Equal
Elevators can help—but their impact varies.
- Freight elevators are significantly more efficient than small passenger elevators.
- Reserved or dedicated elevators are far more efficient than shared elevators.
- Unreserved elevators often introduce wait time, congestion, and stop‑and‑go movement.
We do not charge elevator fees.
We simply account for the time impact that different elevator setups create.
Parking Is Mission‑Critical
Efficient parking is essential to a smooth move.
Please let us know during the estimate process:
- where the truck can legally park at the origin, and
- where the truck can legally park at the destination.
Long carries, unclear loading zones, or parking restrictions can significantly increase move time. Knowing this in advance allows us to plan correctly and avoid surprises.
Why This Approach Is Fair
By pricing based on time instead of arbitrary fees:
- you pay only for the work required,
- expectations are clear up front,
- and the move stays transparent from start to finish.
This approach aligns effort, time, and cost—without hidden charges.
What We Need From You During the Estimate
To build the most accurate estimate possible, please share:
- floor level at each location,
- whether stairs or elevators are involved,
- elevator type (freight vs. passenger),
- whether elevator reservations are required,
- and parking details for the moving truck.
Clear information helps us plan the right crew and timeline.
The Bottom Line
Stairs, elevators, and parking don’t change how we move your belongings—but they do affect how long it takes.
We believe time‑based pricing is the most honest way to account for that.
No stair fees.
No elevator fees.
Just transparent planning and disciplined execution.
Questions About Your Building or Access Conditions?
Our team is happy to walk through your situation and explain how access will affect timing and crew size—before move day.
That’s how professionals operate.