Moving can be one of the most stressful experiences, not just emotionally but also financially.
Doesn’t matter if you are relocating for a new job, a fresh start, or to be closer to loved ones, it is always essential to understand the cost associated with hiring a professional moving.
It’s no surprise that the moving industry is worth around $86 billion annually.
Now, if you’re wondering, "How much do moving companies charge?"
The answer isn’t straightforward.
The price tag can depend on a few critical factors: the size of your home, the distance of the move, and the time of year.
For instance, did you know that the average cost of hiring movers for a local move (under 100 miles) is roughly $1,250?
However, if you are planning a long-distance move (1,000+ miles), expect to spend an average of $4,890.
Movers offer a range of services that can add up quickly to your final cost.
In fact, full-service moves can cost between $1,200 and $29,000, depending on the size and distance.
That’s why it’s essential to get a clear picture of these costs upfront.
Let’s get into what these costs look like, what factors influence them, and how you can save on your next big move.
What Influences the Cost of Hiring Movers?
Let’s first understand the factors that affect how much moving companies charge.
Costs vary significantly depending on several key elements:
Distance of the Move
Local moves (under 100 miles) are generally cheaper than long-distance moves, as the latter involves higher mileage and crosses state lines.
Size of the Move
Moving to a one-bedroom apartment will naturally be cheaper than relocating to a three-bedroom house.
Time of Year
Peak moving season, which is typically summer (June to August), tends to be more expensive.
In contrast, moving during the off-season (fall and winter months) can save you money.
Additional Services:
Packing services, storage options, and speciality items (like pianos) can all add to the final bill.
Insurance and Coverage Options
Movers offer various levels of insurance, and the higher the offer, the higher the cost.
How Much Does a Moving Company Charge?
When people ask, "How much does a moving company charge?" it’s not just about one flat rate.
Let’s break down each aspect so you get a clear idea of what to expect.
Local vs. Long-Distance Moving Costs
Now, let's get specific about numbers for both local and long-distance moves:
Local Moves (Within 100 Miles)
If you are moving within the same city or to a nearby town, this is classified as a local move.
For such moves, moving costs per hour are typically charged, ranging from $50 to $200 per hour.
For instance:
A studio or one-bedroom apartment might cost between $501 and $1,250.
Moving a larger home (like a 3-bedroom house) can range from $1,250 to $3,500.
These estimates reflect average figures, but requesting a quote specific to your circumstances is important.
The average cost of hiring movers can fluctuate based on local rates and demand.
Long-Distance Moves (Over 100 Miles)
Long-distance moves are calculated differently based on weight, mileage, and additional services.
In 2024, the average cost of a long-distance move (e.g., 1,000 miles) is about $4,890 for a 2-3 bedroom home.
Here’s a rough breakdown:
1-bedroom apartment: $2,500 to $4,500.
2-3 bedroom house: $4,000 to $7,000.
4+ bedroom house: Costs can escalate to $8,500 to $9,000.
These figures can vary significantly, so consult multiple companies for a moving company cost estimate.
Additional Services and Their Costs
The base rate for moving usually covers loading, transport, and unloading, but many additional services can increase your bill:
Packing Services
If you’d rather leave the packing to the pros, most companies offer packing services:
Packing Labor: $30 - $60 per hour per packer.
Full-Service Packing: $300 - $2,000 (depends on the volume and type of items).
Packing Supplies: $50 - $300 (boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, etc.).
Movers might offer speciality packing for fragile items like antiques or electronics, which costs extra.
Storage Fees
Sometimes, you might need storage during your move. Movers offer temporary and long-term storage solutions:
Short-term Storage: $100 - $300 per month for small spaces.
Long-term Storage: $300 - $1,200 monthly for larger units or full-home storage.
Some companies may prorate fees based on daily rates if you're storing items for a few days to a week.
Moving Insurance and Coverage
Most movers offer basic liability coverage, which may not fully protect high-value items. You can choose between:
Basic Coverage: $0.60 per pound per item (included in most contracts).
Full Value Protection: $200 - $1,000 depending on item value and the amount covered.
Having the right insurance ensures peace of mind, especially for long-distance or high-value moves.
Cost Variations Based on Seasonality
The time of year plays a significant role in moving costs.
Summer, from June to August, is peak moving season.
Costs are typically 20-30% higher during these months due to demand. For example:
Off-Peak Season Move (October - April): $1,000 - $4,000 for local moves.
Peak Season Move (June - August): $1,500 - $6,000 for local moves.
Planning your move during less busy months can save you a considerable amount.
Specialty Items and Handling Fees
Moving large or delicate items often incurs extra charges.
If you have a piano, antique furniture, or a pool table, movers will charge for these speciality items:
Piano Moving: $150 - $800 depending on size and weight.
Antique Handling: $300 - $1,000 if special equipment or wrapping is needed.
Pool Table Moving: $400 - $900 (disassembly and reassembly included).
These charges account for the extra labor, equipment, and time required to safely move high-risk items.
Moving Cost Table
To make it easier, here’s a detailed table summarizing these costs:
| Service Type | Local Move Cost (USD) | Long-Distance Move Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Hourly Rate | $50 - $200/hour | Not applicable (weight-based) |
| Studio/1-Bedroom Move | $400 - $1,250 | $2,500 - $4,500 |
| 2-3 Bedroom Move | $1,250 - $3,500 | $4,000 - $7,000 |
| 4+ Bedroom Move | $3,000 - $5,000+ | $8,500 - $12,000 |
| Packing Services | $300 - $2,000 | $300 - $2,000 |
| Storage Fees | $100 - $1,200/month | $100 - $1,200/month |
| Specialty Items | $150 - $1,000 per item | $150 - $1,000 per item |
| Insurance (Full Value) | $200 - $1,000 | $200 - $1,000 |
How to Get Accurate Estimates
It’s always wise to get multiple quotes.
Many companies provide a moving company pricing guide on their websites where you can enter details like distance, home size, and additional services for a quick quote.
For an accurate estimate:
In-Home Survey: Movers visit your home to assess volume and give a detailed cost breakdown.
Virtual Survey: Via video call, movers estimate the volume of items, especially useful for long-distance moves.
DIY vs. Hiring Movers: Which is Better?
Sometimes, hiring movers isn’t the only option.
If you are on a tight budget or prefer to take control of your move, a DIY approach might be worth considering.
We all know renting a moving truck can be much cheaper.
Its costs range from $120 to $1,500 for local moves and up to $4,000 for long-distance relocations.
However, remember that DIY moves come with added responsibilities and potential hidden costs, like gas, tolls, and equipment rental.
How to Save Money When Hiring Movers
To reduce your moving expenses, consider the following tips:
Move During the Off-Season
If possible, schedule your move between September and April when demand is lower.
Declutter Before Moving
The less you move, the cheaper it will be. Get rid of items you don’t need to cut down on weight and volume.
Get Multiple Quotes
Don’t settle for the first estimate.
Compare rates from different companies using a moving company pricing guide to find the best deal.
Go for Partial Services
You can handle some tasks yourself, like packing and unpacking, to save on labor costs.
