How much do movers cost?
Use the below approximate moving cost calculator to get instant ballpark pricing for your upcoming relocation!
How Much Do Movers Cost?
The cost of hiring professional movers for a local move is from $700 to $3,950 and for a long-distance move (distance > 1,000 miles) the price can range from $3,400 to $8,900. These moving estimates are based on a 2-3 bedroom relocation.
How Much Do Local Moving Companies Cost?
It’s considered a local move when you are you just moving down the block, or from one neighborhood to another or perhaps to a nearby town in the same city. For a studio apartment, a local move can cost around $240 to $675 and for a 4-5 bedroom house it will be more than $4,500. The major factors affecting the cost of the local move is the size of your home and how many items you are moving.
| Studio to 1 Bedroom | 2 to 3 Bedroom | 4 to 5 Bedroom | 5+ Bedrooms |
| $240 – $675 | $710 – $1,400 | $1,100 to $4,900 | $1,400 – $4,900 |
Average Cost of Movers per Hour
The average cost of hiring a labor-only moving company ranges from $50 to $90 per hour. This hourly moving rate is based on the number of movers required to complete the relocation job. The below table shows the average total cost of movers based on the size of home and average hourly rate of $70 per mover per hour.
Related: Best Local Moving Companies Near You
Local Moving Company Pricing Chart (2023)
| Size of the House | No. of Movers | No. of Hours | Total Cost |
| Studio Apartment | 2 | 2 | $280 |
| 1 Bedroom | 2 | 4 | $560 |
| 2 Bedroom | 3 | 6 | $1,260 |
| 3 Bedroom | 4 | 7 | $1,960 |
| 4 Bedroom | 4 | 9 | $2,520 |
| 5 Bedroom | 5 | 12 | $4,200 |
How Much Do Long Distance Movers Cost?
A long distance move is expensive because the long distance moving company have to factor in the cost of fuel, tolls, drivers. The average cost of a long distance move ranges from $1,300 to $8,400 depending on the total distance and the size of the move.
Long Distance Moving Company Pricing 2023
| No. of Miles | Studio to 1 Bedroom | 2 to 3 Bedroom | 4 to 5 Bedroom | 5+ Bedroom |
| 250 miles | $1,800 – $2,300 | $2,350 – $3,950 | $3,950 – $4,700 | $4,900+ |
| 1,000 miles | $2,400 – $2,900 | $3,000 – $7,800 | $7,800 – $8,100 | $8,500+ |
| 2,500+ miles | $3,200 – $3,800 | $3,900 – $7,900 | $8,400+ | $8,900+ |
Must read: Top-rated Long Distance Moving Companies in the U.S.
How Do You Calculate Moving Costs?
Estimating Costs when Moving Short Distance – When estimating the cost of a short distance or a local household move, the most important factors are time and the number of movers required. You can use the above moving cost calculator or the following formula to estimate the cost of your upcoming move:
((Number of Movers) X (Hourly Rate) X (Total Number of Hours to Complete the Relocation)) + (Movers’ Travel Fee) + (Fee for Additional Moving Services and Packing Materials Used)
Estimating Costs for a Long Distance Move – When you are moving out of state or across the country, the moving costs are calculated based on the total weight of your belongings/shipment and the distance to your destination. You can calculate the long distance moving cost using the below formula (or use the moving cost estimator)
((Total Distance of Your Move) X (Weight of the Shipment) X (Rate per Pound per Mile)) + (Fee for Additional Services Used) + (Moving Insurance Cost)
Moving is expensive. It’s an enormous hassle to move all of your belongings from one place to another, and the cost can be a huge burden on your finances
The moving industry has been slow to innovate, with most companies still using the same old-fashioned methods that were created decades ago.
Our approximate moving calculator gives you a price estimate for any move in seconds while providing you with valuable information about national movers and local movers near you. We provide 100% free quotes from top rated, licensed professional movers so you can compare prices and find the best deal possible! No more calling around or waiting for emails back – we make it easy for you!
Get instant ballpark pricing for your upcoming relocation!
Factors Affecting Moving Costs
The cost of moving will be affected by several factors, such as the size and distance of your move. Additional services, such as packing and unpacking, can add to the cost. Here is a breakdown of some of the main factors that will affect your moving costs:
Size of your move: The amount of stuff you need to move will affect the cost. The bigger the move, the more it will cost.
Distance of your move: The further you are moving, the more it will cost. This is because movers charge by the mile for longer moves.
Additional services: If you need additional services, such as packing and unpacking, this will add to the cost.
The time of year: The time you move can also affect the cost. Moving during the summer is typically more expensive than moving during the winter.
Additional moving costs and fees to consider:
Specialty items: If you have any specialty items that need to be moved, such as a piano, this will add to the cost.
Long carry fee: If your movers have to carry your stuff a long distance from the truck to your new home, they may charge a long carry fee.
Fuel surcharge: Some movers will charge a fuel surcharge, which is basically a fee to cover the fuel cost.
Stair carry fee: If your movers have to carry your stuff up or down a lot of stairs, they may charge a stair carry fee.
Packing materials: If you need packing materials, such as boxes and bubble wrap, this will add to the cost.
Elevator fee: Some movers may charge an elevator fee if your move involves an elevator.
Shuttle fee: Some movers provide shuttle services to transport belongings from the moving truck to your new house. This service is frequently required when the moving truck can’t be parked near the home because of a lack of space or other issues. For example, if your home is in a remote location with no parking, you may need a shuttle to move items from it to the truck.
Extra stops: Mover’s rates generally increase with the number of stops they have to make. For example, if you need them to stop by your storage unit before coming to your new home, that will cost extra because of the additional distance and labor involved.
Expedited delivery services: If you need your belongings delivered as soon as possible, this will cost extra.
Packing and unpacking services: As mentioned before, if you need help packing and unpacking your belongings, this will cost extra.
Storage fees: If you need to store your belongings before or after your move, you will have to pay storage fees.
Truck rental fees: If you are renting a truck to move your belongings yourself, you will have to pay rental fees.
Gas and tolls: If you are driving a moving truck yourself, you will have to pay for gas and tolls.
Insurance: If you are using a professional moving company, they will likely offer insurance in case any of your belongings are damaged during the move. This will obviously add to the cost.
Deposits: Some moving companies may require a deposit in order to reserve their services.
Furniture disassembly/assembly: Some moving companies will charge extra to disassemble and reassemble your furniture.
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Tips on Saving Moving Costs
Book early: Book your moving company 30-60 days in advance to get the best rate. Movers will increase their rates during the peak moving season, so it’s best to book as early as possible. It is recommended to book at least 90 days in advance if you are moving during the peak season.
Get rid of your excess belongings: The easiest way to save money on a move is to get rid of your excess belongings. The less stuff you have to move, the cheaper it will be. You should sell unwanted items, donate them to charity, or simply throw them away.
Go for DIY moving services: Moving services can be very expensive. If you are on a tight budget, you may consider DIY moving services, such as renting a truck and doing the move yourself. This will require more work on your part, but it can save you a lot of money.
Ask for Price Matching: Some moving companies offer price matching, so if you find a cheaper quote from another company, they may be willing to match it.
Rent a moving truck: Renting a moving truck is usually cheaper than hiring a professional moving company. You could save thousands by renting a truck and doing the move yourself. These moving trucks have a capacity of up to 26 feet and can accommodate a 4-bedroom home.
Enlist friends and family to help: Enlisting the help of friends and family can also save you money on a move. They can help you pack, load, and unload your belongings. Just be sure to return the favor when they need help moving!
Get creative with your packing: Getting creative with your packing can also save you money. For example, using garbage bags instead of boxes for clothing can save you a lot of money. You can also use suitcases, duffel bags, and backpacks to pack your belongings.
Look for Moving Grants and Charities: There are several moving grants and charities that can help you with the cost of your move. These organizations will usually provide financial assistance or free moving services.
Find free moving boxes and supplies: You can find free moving boxes and supplies from a number of places, such as your local grocery store, liquor store, or recycling center. You can also ask your friends and family if they have any boxes that they are not using.
Rent a portable moving container: A portable moving container is a great alternative to renting a moving truck. These containers can be delivered to your doorstep and stored in your driveway or garage. They are also much cheaper than hiring a professional moving company.
Look for moving discounts: There are several discounts that you can take advantage of when moving. For example, many moving companies offer military discounts, student discounts, and senior citizen discounts. You may also be able to get a discount if you pay for your move upfront.
Get multiple quotes: Getting multiple quotes is the best way to ensure that you are getting the best deal on your move. Be sure to get at least three quotes from different companies before making a decision.
Check for hidden fees: Some moving companies will charge hidden fees, so be sure to ask about any hidden fees before hiring a company. Hidden fees can include things like fuel surcharges, insurance fees, and packing materials.
Save on Insurance: One way to save on the cost of your move is to get insurance for your belongings. This will protect your belongings if they are damaged or lost during the move. You can get insurance from your moving company or a third-party insurer.
Pack yourself: If you are on a tight budget, you may want to consider packing yourself. This will obviously require more work on your part, but it can save you a lot of money.
Manage Utilities: Another way to save on the cost of your move is to manage your utilities. This includes things like turning off your water and electricity before you move. You may also want to transfer your utilities to your new home.
Choose a less expensive move date: The cost of a move can vary depending on the time of year. For example, moving during the summer is usually more expensive than moving during the winter. If you have flexibility, choose a less expensive time of year to move.
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FAQs When Calculating Moving Costs
Is it worth it to hire movers?
With a full-service moving company, you can have the peace of mind that your items are in good hands and will be carefully transported. Plus it’s worth saving time by hiring professional movers to do all the heavy lifting for you! Full-service movers will not only help you with packing services but also with other moving services like loading and unloading the moving truck.
How much will it cost to move?
Approximate Moving Cost Calculator Updated Pricing 2023
| Studio Apartment | 1 Bedroom | 2 Bedroom | 3 Bedroom | 4 Bedroom | 5 Bedroom | 5+ Bedrooms | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| <50 miles | $240 – $675 | $240 – $675 | $710 – $1,400 | $710 – $1,400 | $1,100 – $4,900 | $1,100 – $4,900 | $1,400 – $4,900 |
| <250 miles | $800 – $1,800 | $800 – $2,300 | $1,400 – $3,950 | $1,400 – $3,950 | $2,050 – $4,700 | $2,050 – $4,700 | $2,350 – $4,900 |
| <1000 miles | $950 – $2,400 | $950 – $2,900 | $2,100 – $7,800 | $2,100 – $7,800 | $4,900 – $8,100 | $4,900 – $8,100 | $4,900 – $8,500 |
| 2500 miles+ | $1,300 – $3,200 | $1,300 – $3,800 | $3,400 – $7,900 | $3,400 – $7,900 | $8,400+ | $8,400+ | $8,900+ |
How much should I budget for moving expenses?
The average moving cost is $1,180. There are many moving expenses to consider when getting ready for a move and you will need to have some cash on hand before the movers arrive at your front door. You’ll want enough money set aside for packing materials like tape or bubble wrap as well as any help with loading and unloading trucks that might be needed if it’s not just kids who are helping get things into boxes in preparation of their big day ahead!
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See also: How to Move on a Budget?
How much does it cost to move a 2,000 sq ft house?
Paying professional long distance movers to move your 2,000 sq ft house will cost between $4,500 and $10,200.
How much does it cost to move a 3,000 sq ft house?
The average cost to move a 3,000 sq ft house will range between $5,800 (for a 100-mile move) and $15,600 for a move across the country.
How much does it cost to move a 5,000 sq ft house?
Depending on the distance, you could be looking at a very high cost to move your five bedroom home. The average national estimate is $4,000 for local moves and up to $21,000 for long distance movers – although that figure can vary depending where in America you’re moving from or going to.
Is it cheaper to buy new furniture or move it?
If you’re moving locally, save money by transporting your furniture instead of buying new. If the move is cross-country though, this is where to consider an alternative option.
How do you move furniture cheaply?
The cheapest way to move furniture is by renting a truck yourself! If you pack everything up before driving it, this will definitely cost less than paying someone else – which also means that there’s not much work involved in loading and unloading the items at either end of your journey (think: no heavy lifting). But do consider all different types of transportation services so that you’re happy with whichever one suits best.
How much does 2 guys and a truck cost?
Two guys and a truck will cost you approximately $80 to $100 an hour.
Useful: Two Men and a Truck Pricing and Review
What is the cheapest day to move?
Weekdays (Monday to Thursday) : Moving on a weekday may sound like an unappealing idea. But in reality, it could save you up to 30%! Most moving companies offer better rates during the week because they aren’t as busy then.
How much does it cost to move 500 miles?
If you’re moving 500 miles or less to a new home, it should cost around $1500. But if your destination is 1000+ miles away, the cost of your move will be about double that!
Do movers charge by weight?
Long distance moving companies may charge by the weight of goods, distance they’re traveling. So for a move within your local state it’s probably going to be cheaper than if you were moving across country! Most of the local moving companies will charge by the hour for a short-distance local move.
Do you pay movers before or after?
For a hassle-free, stress-less move that won’t break the bank, find a reputable mover. Reputable movers will not demand cash or any large deposit before moving you and you generally pay upon delivery. When you pay movers up front, they’ll take their sweet time getting your belongings to you. If you want more control over who handles your possessions, don’t give them any cash upfront- just let them have it after delivery!
Can you negotiate with moving companies?
Yes, you can negotiate with moving companies, but the word “negotiate” can be a bit misleading. You should never feel like you are being forced into anything — talk to your professional moving company about any concerns or questions you may have before signing a contract. Professional movers will work with you through all of this and help to ensure that every detail is taken care of.
How much should you tip movers?
Tipping is a personal thing and you should never feel obligated to tip a mover for doing their job correctly. If you choose to tip, most people will give $5 per person in the moving crew for every hour the relocation takes. For example, if your move takes 4 hours, each mover should get a $20 tip.
If the movers don’t do a good job, you don’t need to tip them at all. But remember how hard lifting heavy furniture and running around to pack and unload a moving truck is for them, so it never hurts to give them something extra!
How do I get the best deal on movers?
To get a reasonable price on your relocation, get multiple price quotes from professional moving companies. There are many things to consider when getting a quote, so you need to be sure that the quote is accurate. If you’re unsure if a quote is accurate, be sure to ask the mover about anything that seems questionable.
To save money on your relocation, you may also want to compare moving rates online. This way, you’ll have a better idea of what to expect before contacting any companies.
Get instant ballpark pricing for your upcoming relocation!
What is the average cost of moving truck rental?
The average cost of moving truck rental ranges from $130 for short moves to $1,780 for a long distance move. The final cost largely varies depending on the type of move.
What is the average cost of a DIY move?
The cost of a DIY move mainly depends on your relocation distance, the rentals required, the moving supplies needed and the load of your move. There are many variables involved, hence the cost of every do-it-yourself move will be different. However, the main advantage of a DIY move is that you are in total control of the moving process.
When is the peak season for moving?
The peak moving season is from April to September. Out of the 40 million people that move each year across the United States, almost 80% of those relocation occur between April and September. The demand for movers is very high during this period especially between June to August which are considered the busiest months. The high demand affects the availability of movers and hence also the cost of move.
What should I consider before hiring a moving company? How are moving costs calculated?
The first thing you should consider is what type of move you’re planning. Are you moving locally or long distance? How much stuff do you need to move? Do you need packing or storage services? Once you know the answers to these questions, you can start shopping around for moving companies.
Most moving companies calculate their rates based on the size of your move and the distance you’re moving. They may also charge additional fees for services like packing, storage, and insurance. Be sure to get a few quotes from different companies so you can compare rates.
How Much Does a Car Shipping Cost?
Car shipping costs will vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the distance of your move. For example, shipping a car from New York to Los Angeles will be more expensive than shipping a car from New York to New Jersey. You can get an estimate of your car shipping costs by contacting a few different companies and asking for car shipping quotes.
How much does insurance cost for a moving company?
The amount you pay for moving insurance will differ based on the type of coverage you choose and how much your belongings are worth. A one-bedroom apartment with Full Value Protection will typically cost around $500 to insure.
Will a moving company move one piece of furniture?
If you only need to ship one item, a furniture piece like a couch or mattress, working with moving companies is not your best option. Most have weight minimums that disqualify smaller shipments. Better choices for single items include LTL carriers or shipment marketplaces.
How Much does it cost to store furniture with a moving company?
If you store your furniture with a moving company instead of in a storage unit, you’ll save time and energy by not having to move everything in and out. The monthly fee for this service will depend on the size of your apartment or house.
For example, storing the contents of a one-bedroom apartment typically costs $100-$150 per month, while doing the same for a three- or four-bedroom dwelling runs $300-$700 monthly. Note that since your items are stored at the company’s warehouse, you won’t have access to them while they’re in storage.
How much do packing services cost?
The cost of packing is often calculated by the size of your move. On average, full packing services cost between $1,000 and $1,500. Packaging costs could dramatically increase if you have specialty items that are difficult to transport, like Piano or large paintings.
One advantage of having a moving company pack your belongings for you is insurance. If you pack your own boxes, the moving company is not responsible for any damages that occur to your items. However, if the moving company packs your boxes, the company is liable for any damages to your belongings.
How much do international moves cost?
International moves are typically more expensive than domestic moves. The average cost of an international move is between $5,000-$10,000. Factors that affect the cost of an international move include the distance of the move, the amount of stuff you have to move, and the type of shipping you choose. Air shipping is usually the most expensive option, while sea shipping is usually the least expensive. Depending on the destination, you can also choose to ship your belongings by land, but this will typically take longer and be more expensive than air or sea shipping.
For example, it would cost $5,500 to $7,500 to move a one-bedroom apartment from New York City to Paris by sea. Moving a one-bedroom from NYC to Sydney would be even more expensive at an estimated cost of $6,500 to $9,000.
Can you deduct moving costs as expenses?
Unfortunately, the answer is no. The 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act made moving expenses non-tax-deductible, except for active military members. Although it varies by state, some Moving costs may be able to deductible on your state tax return.
How much does it cost to rent a portable storage container?
Renting a portable storage container typically costs between $100 and $400 per month, depending on the size of the container and the length of time you need it. Storage containers are a great option if you’re planning on storing your belongings for an extended period of time or if you need to move them long distance.
What is the best way to cut back on your moving cost?
The best way to cut back on your moving cost is to do as much of the work yourself as possible. This includes packing your boxes, disassembling furniture, and even renting your truck. If you’re moving long distance, you can also ship some of your belongings rather than taking them with you. This can be a cheaper option than hiring a full-service moving company.
What are the cheapest ways to move across the country?
You don’t have to spend a lot of money hiring professional help for your cross-country move. If you’re okay with sacrificing convenience, try one of these cost-effective methods instead:
- Renting a moving truck and driving the items yourself.
- Shipping your belongings via USPS, FedEx, or UPS.
- Using a freight trailer.
- Renting a portable storage container.
- Ask friends to assist you with the relocation process or only hire labor movers for the day of the move itself.
Why is moving so expensive?
Moving is not only costly, but it’s also time-consuming. On top of that, you’ll often need supplies and assistance. Typically, the cost to move includes labor expenses, fuel costs, the price of materials used, and equipment rental fees. Plus, if you’re moving far away from your current home, the mover will charge based on how much your belongings weigh. And finally – unless you’re able to live rent-free for a while – buying a new house adds even more financial burdens in the form of real estate agent commissions and closing costs.
How much do moving boxes cost?
The cost of moving boxes depends on the size and type of box you need. For example, a small cardboard box might cost $2, while a large plastic storage container could run you $20 or more. You can usually find free boxes at your local grocery store or by asking friends who have recently moved.
When is the most expensive time to move?
The most expensive time to move is typical during the summer months when demand is highest. If you’re able to, schedule your move for a time outside of the peak season, such as the winter or fall. This will help you save money on both the cost of hiring professional movers and the price of renting a truck or storage container.
How much does it cost to move a mobile home?
The cost to move a mobile home varies depending on the size of the home and the distance it needs to be moved. It typically costs between $1,000 and $5,000 to move a mobile home less than 100 miles and up to $10,000 or more to move one cross-country. If you’re moving to a larger home or need special permits, the price could be even higher.
Will my employer cover my relocation costs?
It depends on your employer. Some employers will reimburse you for a portion of your moving costs, while others may cover the entire amount. It’s best to check with your HR department to see what, if any, relocation benefits are offered by your company. If you do get a relocation package, make sure to keep all of your receipts so you can be reimbursed for your expenses.
How far in advance should I book a moving company?
Ideally, you should book a moving company at least eight to ten weeks in advance of your move date. This will give you enough time to compare rates and services from different companies and find the best deal. It’s also a good idea to have a backup plan, such as renting a truck or shipping your belongings, in case you cannot secure a reservation with a mover.
