How Much Does It Cost to Move?

How Much Do Movers Cost for a Local Move?

The price of a local move typically ranges from $875 to $2,350. The estimate may include an hourly rate, a flat fee, or both.

Cost of Professional Movers per Hour

Local movers usually charge $25 to $50 per hour for each worker. This may or may not include a truck and a furniture dolly, so you’ll want to confirm when you get an estimate.

The number of movers you need for the job depends on your belongings. Plan on hiring three or more pros if you have a larger house or heavy items, like a piano.

Packing and Moving

Packing services cost $1,000 on average, depending on the size of the house and the number of belongings you need moved. Movers typically provide an estimate based on the number of rooms and total square feet. This price only includes packing your belongings and packing materials; you’ll pay extra for loading, unloading, or unpacking.

Full-Service Movers

Hiring full-service movers costs $2,300 or more, depending on the distance and square footage. This service includes:

• Packing

• Furniture disassembly

• Loading

• Transportation

• Unloading

• Unpacking

• Furniture assembly

Keep in mind that full service may spread out the process over a week or two. In most cases, movers pack items, store them for a few days, and deliver them. Plan to transport your highest priority items yourself so you have immediate access to them as soon as you arrive at your new home. 

Estimated Cost of Hiring Movers by House or Apartment Size

Moving costs $240 to $1,500 or more, depending on the size of the house. This range only accounts for the cost of labor and includes 2 to 3 movers to load, transport, and unload your goods for a move under 100 miles.

The cost of packing materials, renting a truck, and any extra equipment is separate and can increase your total price by up to 50%.

Moving Cost Factors

The $1,100 average cost to move depends mostly on volume of belongings and distance, but there are other factors to consider. Don’t forget these aspects as you plan.

Moving Truck and Van Prices

Renting a truck or van costs $50 to $2,000, depending on the size of the vehicle. Many local moving companies include a standard vehicle as part of the package, but it may cost extra for a larger one.

If you’re relocating more than 100 miles on a tight budget, a truck rental may save you $1,000 or more. In this case, you might hire pros to load or unload or ask friends and family to help on moving day.

Ease of Access

A unit that is difficult to access can add an extra $200 to $500 to the total. Carrying furniture over several flights of stairs takes longer and often requires extra movers. If you’re on a tight budget, you may want to request an in-person estimate to be sure.

Timing

The most affordable times to move is are:

• Fall and winter

• Weekdays

• The middle of the month

Moving companies are busiest in the summer and on weekends and holidays. If you relocate at these times, you can count on limited options and higher prices.

Moving Insurance

Most professional moving companies provide basic liability insurance in the estimate, which covers about $0.60 per pound. If you want coverage that will reimburse you for the item's full value, you’ll need to pay more. Be sure to ask about it when you request a quote, as you may not be able to add it on the day of service.

Tipping

It’s customary to leave a 10% to 20% tip, particularly for local movers. Plan to give closer to 20% if the job is less than $500, or if the workers have done a great job taking care of your items. Cash is easiest, but you may be able to add it to a credit card transaction.

Moving Cross Country

The cost to move out of state ranges from $2,200 to $5,700, mainly depending on distance and weight. The average home’s belongings weigh about 7,500 pounds.

When you hire movers, be sure to ask if they cover distances longer than 100 miles. These trips have different rules and regulations, especially if you’re moving to another state.

FAQs

What’s the average cost to move a 3-bedroom house?

The cost to move a 3-bedroom house ranges from $480 to $800.

Do I need a moving broker?

A moving broker is a third-party company that books your move and connects you with a high-rated moving company in your area. While moving brokers can help you secure a moving date without having to manage the logistics yourself, they aren’t liable for the transportation of your belongings or how they get to your destination. It’s a safer bet to work directly with a local moving company to coordinate your move.

How much do specialty moving services cost?

Moving large items like a car or piano costs $400 to $2,000, on top of general relocation expenses. Specialty items carry a premium because they require different skills and precautions, may be heavier, and cost more in fuel to transport, or require extra protection and insurance. 

The cost to ship a car, for example, is calculated based on weight, distance, dimensions, value, and insurance. You'll also pay more for express shipping, door-to-door service, and enclosed shipping.

Similarly, the cost to ship a piano is higher than the cost to ship everyday items of the same size and weight. A specialist’s skills and equipment are necessary to successfully transport a piano without damaging it, whether you're shipping a little upright piano or a luxurious grand piano.

What are some well-known moving companies?

There are many well-known moving companies, both locally and nationally. For shorter moves under 100 miles, talk to some local moving companies with good reviews and solid reputations.

If you’re hiring a national chain, remember that they may subcontract to local companies for shorter moves. In this case, you may want to read reviews for that business before you commit.