Putting new furniture together shouldn’t be the hardest part of buying it — but for many people, it is. Assembly instructions can be vague, hardware can go missing, and some pieces require tools or extra hands you may not have. That’s where professional furniture assemblers come in, offering quick, reliable help for everything from a single dining chair to a full room of new arrivals.

This guide breaks down typical furniture assembly costs, how long different items usually take, and what to expect from a professional service. Whether you’re furnishing a new home or assembling a few pieces here and there, you’ll know exactly how to budget — and how to get the best value for your money.

Key takeaways

• Typical furniture assembly cost: Most homeowners pay $60–$180 per hour, with a one-hour minimum even for small items.
  
  
• What affects the price: Complex, multi-box pieces, two-person jobs, and heavy or oversized furniture take longer and cost more to assemble.
  
  
• Ways to save: Compare quotes and bundle multiple items into one appointment to avoid paying several one-hour minimum fees.
  

Furniture assembly prices: How much does furniture assembly cost?

The cost of furniture assembly depends on the item, how complex it is, and whether the assembler charges a flat rate or an hourly rate. Most professionals charge a minimum of one hour, even for small items, and prices can increase if the job requires two assemblers, specialty tools, or heavy lifting.

In general, homeowners spend $60–$180 per hour for professional furniture assembly. Simple items take 30–60 minutes, while larger or more complex pieces — like L-shaped desks, wardrobes, bunk beds, and sectional sofas — can take several hours.

Comparing quotes across multiple platforms or local pros is the best way to understand true pricing in your area. Rates vary widely, and some services offer lower pricing when you book multiple items at once.

Furniture assembly prices: Average cost per hour

Professional furniture assembly cost varies based on the complexity of the item, whether one or two assemblers are required, and the platform or company you book through. Most providers charge a one-hour minimum, even for quick items, with higher rates for large or multi-box pieces.

Calculating the cost of furniture assembly

Figuring out what you’ll pay for furniture assembly comes down to a few predictable elements: the assembler’s hourly rate, the one-hour minimum most services require, and how complex each item is to put together. A simple chair may take just minutes, while multi-box desks, wardrobes, and sectionals require more time, tools, and sometimes a second assembler.

The steps and table below can help you estimate your total cost before you book a service.

How to calculate the total cost of furniture assembly

1. Start with the hourly rate. Most assemblers charge $60–$180 per hour, depending on experience, location, and item complexity.
   
   
2. Add the one-hour minimum (if applicable). Even if an item only takes 20–30 minutes, you’ll usually pay for a full hour.
   
   
3. Check whether your item needs one or two assemblers. Heavy, oversized, or tall furniture may require a two-person team, which doubles the hourly cost.
   
   
4. Factor in item-specific complexity. Multi-box items, cable routing, wall-anchoring, or extensive hardware can increase assembly time.
   
   
5. Include any flat-rate or platform fees. Some platforms add travel fees, service fees, or packaging disposal fees.
   
   
6. Estimate time using the furniture time guide. Use the “How many hours does it take…” table below to estimate your labor hours.
   
   

Add optional add-ons. Examples include wall-mounting, securing anti-tip brackets, or removing old furniture packaging.

Cost by type of furniture

Different categories of furniture come with different price expectations. Larger or more complex items typically require more assembly time, while small, pre-drilled pieces are faster and more affordable.

How many hours does it take to assemble most furniture?

The time required to assemble furniture depends on the brand, size, number of parts, and whether the item arrives in one box or several. Simple pieces like dining chairs or small tables often take under an hour, while larger, multi-box items — such as wardrobes, bunk beds, and sectional sofas — can take several hours and may require a two-person team.

Hourly rates for the top furniture assembly platforms

Finding the right furniture assembly service often comes down to pricing, convenience, and how each platform structures its rates. Some services offer flat-rate pricing per item, while others charge by the hour with a minimum booking. Below are the five most commonly used platforms for furniture assembly, along with what you can expect to pay.

Angi

Angi connects homeowners with local, vetted furniture assembly professionals who set their own hourly rates. You can browse reviews, compare quotes, and book directly through the platform. Angi is a strong option if you want multiple pricing estimates or need assembly for several items at once.

Angi pricing:

• Typical cost: $60–$140 per hour
  
  
• Some pros offer flat-rate per item pricing
  
  
• One-hour minimum is common
  
  
• Rates vary by city, item complexity, and number of pieces

IKEA / Taskrabbit

Taskrabbit is IKEA’s official furniture assembly partner, offering both hourly and fixed pricing options for assembling IKEA and non-IKEA furniture. For many IKEA products, you can book Taskrabbit directly at checkout, making it a convenient all-in-one service.

Taskrabbit pricing:

• Starts around $50–$120 per hour
  
  
• Some items have pre-set, flat-rate pricing
• Higher rates for multi-box items, wardrobes, and heavy lifting
  
  
• Same-day or next-day appointments often available

Wayfair Assembly Services

Wayfair partners with trusted third-party assemblers to offer item-specific or hourly assembly as an add-on at checkout. Rates vary depending on the piece, but pricing is typically transparent before you buy.

Wayfair pricing:

• Typical cost: $60–$150 per hour
  
  
• Many products have fixed assembly fees
• Bundle pricing available when assembling multiple items
  
  
• Convenient to book during furniture purchase

Handy

Handy is a popular home-services marketplace offering furniture assembly, moving help, TV mounting, and general handyman services. Furniture assembly pricing is typically hourly, though some items have flat-rate listings. Handy is known for simple scheduling, flexible cancellations, and user reviews.

Handy pricing:

• Typical cost: $55–$110 per hour
  
  
• Some items priced as flat-rate per piece
• One-hour minimum is standard
  
  
• Add-on fees may apply for packaging removal or wall-anchoring
  

Thumbtack

Thumbtack lets you post your furniture assembly job and receive bids from local pros. Prices vary by region and job complexity, making Thumbtack ideal for comparing multiple offers. You can also check past reviews, photos, and verified credentials before hiring.

Thumbtack pricing:

• Typical bids: $50–$130 per hour
  
  
• Many pros offer item-based pricing for standard furniture
  
  
• Rates can be lower in suburban or lower-cost regions
  
  
• You choose directly from multiple competing quotes

What’s included in furniture assembly?

Furniture assembly can be as simple as screwing legs to your new couch or attaching a tabletop to a set of legs. Other times, it can require more complex steps like: 

• Assembling multiple pieces by securing them with screws and bolts
• Integrating cable management for TVs and other electronics
• Ensuring that hinges and supports are secure
• Attaching additional features, like drawers, cushions, or panels
• Inspecting the assembled furniture for stability and functionality

What affects the cost of furniture assembly?

Furniture assembly prices can vary widely, even for items that look similar. Costs depend not only on the assembler’s hourly rate but also on the complexity, weight, and number of parts involved. Understanding these factors helps you estimate your total cost before booking a service.

Here are the key elements that influence pricing:

Item complexity

Pieces with lots of hardware, multiple panels, drawers, or hinges take longer to assemble. Multi-box items and modular designs almost always increase assembly time.

Size and weight of the furniture

Large desks, wardrobes, and sectionals often require a two-person team, which raises the hourly rate.

Brand and build quality

• IKEA and flat-pack brands often require more time due to detailed instructions and many small parts.
  
  
• Solid wood or metal furniture is heavier and may need additional securing or lifting.
  

Number of items being assembled

Many assemblers charge a one-hour minimum. Booking multiple items in one visit is usually far more cost-efficient.

Tools required

Assemblers may charge more for jobs requiring specialty tools such as drills, socket wrenches, or anchors for wall mounting.

Wall-anchoring or safety attachments

Bookcases, cribs, tall wardrobes, and nursery furniture often require anti-tip brackets, which add time and cost.

Travel fees or location

Some independent pros add a small travel fee for longer distances or high-traffic areas.

Urgency or scheduling

Same-day, evening, or weekend appointments may come with higher rates due to limited availability.

How can I save money on furniture assembly?

Furniture assembly costs can quickly add up, especially if you have multiple pieces to assemble. Fortunately, there are several effective methods to help you save some money without sacrificing quality or style. 

Group assembly projects

If assembling a single dining chair takes about 30 minutes, you will be charged for a full hour of labor. However, if you combine that task with assembling another dining chair or even another piece of new furniture, you can make better use of that hour. If you have shipments of new furniture coming, wait until everything has arrived before finding someone to assemble all your new pieces. 

Look out for discount offers and assembly promotions

Keep an eye out for discounts from retailers and local service providers. Many furniture stores frequently run sales or special promotions that include free or discounted assembly with certain purchases. If you are buying furniture from a store, ask them if they offer white glove delivery, which typically includes furniture assembly as part of the total price. 

Compare quotes from multiple assembly companies

Research local providers or use platforms that connect you with assembly professionals, such as Angi. Provide detailed information about the items you need to assemble, including brand names, types of furniture, and any special requirements you have, such as tight spaces or complicated setups.

Once you receive the quotes, compare the prices and the services included. Look for details like estimated assembly time, additional fees, and customer reviews. You want to ensure you are paying a reasonable price and getting reliable service. 

Is furniture assembly worth the cost?

Whether furniture assembly is worth the cost depends on your priorities, skill level, and how much time you’re willing to invest. For many people, the convenience and expertise a professional brings far outweigh the expense. For others, especially if the item is simple or they enjoy hands-on projects, the added cost may feel unnecessary.

Here’s a clear look at the pros and cons to help you decide.

Pros of hiring a furniture assembler

Time and effort savings
If you’re juggling work, family, or a busy schedule, assembling furniture can easily take up an afternoon. A professional assembler can handle the job quickly while you focus on other tasks.

Avoiding tool purchases
Many assemblies require specialty tools—power drills, hex key sets, socket wrenches—that most people don’t own. Buying them for a one-time job can be costly. Hiring an assembler means the tools (and the know-how) are already included.

Expertise for complex furniture
Modular sofas, bunk beds, large wardrobes, and multi-box items can be difficult to assemble correctly. Pros are familiar with different brands and designs, reducing the chance of mistakes or damage.

Better overall finish
A well-assembled piece not only functions better but looks better. Professionals know how to align panels, secure supports, minimize gaps, and ensure everything is sturdy and level.

Cons of hiring a furniture assembler

Cost concerns
Assembly fees can add up quickly, especially if you’ve purchased multiple pieces or larger items. For simple builds, the cost may feel higher than the effort required.

Scheduling limitations
If a pro’s schedule is full or if you need same-day service, availability can become a challenge. You may need to wait longer than expected, depending on demand in your area.

DIY furniture assembly vs hiring a professional

Some furniture pieces can be assembled with basic tools and a little persistence, while others require experience, strength, and careful attention to hardware or safety attachments. Choosing between DIY and professional assembly depends on your comfort level, the complexity of the item, and how much time you want to spend.

Below is a comparison to help you decide which option makes sense for your situation.

When DIY makes sense

• The item is small or simple (side tables, basic chairs)
  
  
• You already own the tools
  
  
• You enjoy hands-on projects
  
  
• You have time to troubleshoot if needed
  

When you should hire a professional

• The furniture is heavy, tall, or multi-box
  
  
• Instructions are complex or unclear
  
  
• You need wall-anchoring for safety
  
  
• You’re assembling several items at once
  
  
• You want the job done quickly and correctly

We recommend Angi

If you’re considering hiring a furniture assembler, we recommend checking out Angi. They partner with Wayfair to make the entire furniture assembly process super easy, so you can kick back and enjoy your new furniture without stress.

You can also expect fully equipped, background-checked professionals and say goodbye to the surprise fees and hidden costs that most platforms have. You can also read detailed reviews of local furniture assembly people and their hourly rates. 

Your service will be exactly what you paid at checkout, and you can reschedule or cancel your booking online for free up to 24 hours before your scheduled time.

Furniture assembly cost FAQs

How much does it cost to get furniture put together?
Most people pay $60–$180 per hour, with a one-hour minimum. Simple items take 30–60 minutes, while larger pieces (beds, desks, sofas) can cost $100–$300+, depending on time and complexity.

How much should I charge for furniture assembly?
Most pros charge $60–$140/hr for standard items and $100–$180/hr for complex or multi-box pieces. Flat-rate pricing of $40–$200+ per item is also common.

Will Office Depot assemble furniture?
Office Depot doesn’t provide in-house assembly but may refer customers to third-party assemblers like Taskrabbit or local professionals.

Can I pay someone to assemble my furniture?
Yes. Platforms like Angi, Taskrabbit, Wayfair Assembly Services, Handy, and Thumbtack let you hire vetted assemblers with hourly or flat-rate pricing.

Does Walmart do furniture assembly?
Walmart partners with Handy for assembly. Pricing is typically $55–$110/hr or flat-rate per item, depending on the product and location.

Does Lowe's assemble furniture?
Lowe’s offers assembly for select furniture and storage items. Fees vary, but pricing generally aligns with typical hourly ranges in the $60–$140/hr range.

Is furniture assembly worth it?
Often, yes. Pros save time, bring tools, and ensure a sturdy, level finished product — especially for multi-box, heavy, or complex furniture. Simple items may be cheaper to DIY.

Will Staples assemble furniture?
Staples provides assembly services for many office chairs, desks, and storage pieces, sometimes in-store or through partner providers. Pricing varies by item.

How much does it cost to assemble IKEA furniture?
Through IKEA’s Taskrabbit partnership, assembly usually costs $50–$120/hr or $40–$90+ per item, with higher rates for wardrobes, large desks, or multi-box pieces.

How long does furniture assembly usually take?
Most pieces take 30–90 minutes. Larger items like bunk beds, wardrobes, sectionals, and L-shaped desks take 2–4 hours, and may require two assemblers.

How much do people charge to put flat pack furniture together?
Flat-pack pricing typically ranges $60–$140/hr or $40–$200+ per item, depending on complexity, number of boxes, and whether wall-anchoring or heavy lifting is required.