Prefer not to leave your phone number?
No problem!
Schedule an Appointment at your Convenience
(Only email is required)
Schedule an AppointmentOr Call / Text
800-333-3434
By:
Last Updated: Jan 01, 2024
Moving can be exciting, but budgeting can be stressful. We'll cover moving costs and share tips to save money. Use our moving cost calculator to estimate your move's cost and plan your budget.
Moving to a new place is exciting but can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to budgeting. Moving costs can vary depending on several factors, but with proper planning and research, you can minimize the costs and ensure a smooth move.
To help with your planning, you can use our moving cost calculator to get an estimate of your moving expenses.
In this guide, we’ll answer the question of “How much do movers cost?” and provide you with valuable insights and tips to help you budget wisely and choose the right moving company.
The cost of hiring a professional local moving company can range from $290 to $2,000, depending on the size of your home and the number of movers required.
This type of move is typically less than 100 miles and is usually charged by the hour, with rates ranging from $30 to $50 per hour per mover.
| Home Size | No. of Movers | # Hours | Ave Cost / Hr | Average Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | 2 movers | 2 – 4 hours | $80/hr | $290 – $599 |
| 1 Bedroom | 2 movers | 3 – 6 hours | $80/hr | $389 – $750 |
| 2 Bedroom | 3 movers | 4 – 8 hours | $125/hr | $750 – $1900 |
| 3 Bedroom | 4 movers | 6 – 12 hours | $165/hr | $1250 – $3500 |
| 4 Bedroom | 4 movers | 8 – 14 hours | $165/hr | $1,400 – $5100 |
| 5 Bedroom+ | 5 movers | 10 – 16 hours | $200/hr | $2500 – $8000 |
The cost of professional long-distance movers can vary widely, with an average range of $1200 to $12,000 or more.
However, it’s important to note that these are just estimates, and the actual cost may be higher or lower, including the distance, the number of belongings, the level of service needed, and the time of year.
| Distance | 1 Bedroom | 2 – 3 Bedroom | 4 – 5 Bedroom |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100 miles | $1200 – $1500 | $1350 – $1800 | $1700 – $3600 |
| 250 miles | $1300 – $2000 | $1500 – $3500 | $2,000 – $4800 |
| 750 miles | $1400 – $2900 | $2100 – $6900 | $5500 – $7900 |
| 1500 miles | $1600 – $3200 | $2600 – $7400 | $6700 – $9500 |
| 2500 miles+ | $1900 – $3700 | $3900 – $8200 | $12000+ |
The cost of hiring an international moving company can vary widely, ranging from $2,700 to $18,000 or more, depending on the destination country and the number of belongings you’re taking with you.
Typically, the cost of international moving is based on the volume of your belongings and the distance traveled.
However, there are also additional factors to consider, such as customs regulations, shipping timelines, and language barriers.
| Destination | Studio / 1 bedroom | 2 bedrooms | 3 bedrooms | 4 bedrooms |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska | $2,700 – $5000 | $4500 – $7500 | $7500 – $10200 | $8500 – $13400 |
| Hawaii | $4400 – $6000 | $6000 – $9000 | $8500 – $12000 | $12000 – $15000 |
| Central America | $4100 – $5500 | $5500 – $8000 | $8000 – $11000 | $11000 – $13500 |
| South America | $4700 – $6200 | $6500 – $9300 | $8900 – $13000 | $13500 – $16000 |
| Europe | $4900 – $6500 | $6800 – $10200 | $9500 – $14000 | $14500 – $18000 |
It’s important to keep in mind that there may be additional charges, such as customs fees and import taxes, that can vary depending on the country you’re moving to and the items you’re bringing with you.
To avoid any surprises, it’s important to research the customs regulations of your destination country and factor in these additional costs when planning your move.
On average, the cost of using a moving container for a local move (less than 100 miles) can range from $500 to $1900, while the cost for a long-distance move (over 50 miles) can range from $1000 to $6400 or more.
The cost of using a moving container can vary depending on several factors such as the distance, the size of the container, and the duration of the rental.
| Distance of Move | Approximate Moving Cost |
|---|---|
| 0-100 Miles | $500 – $1900 |
| 100 Miles | $1000 – $2200 |
| 450 Miles | $1750 – $2900 |
| 1000 Miles | $2100 – $4500 |
| 2000 Miles | $3500 – $6400 |
**Note: Prices in the table are based on a 2-3 bedroom apartment.
If you’re on a tight budget, you can consider renting a truck and doing the move yourself. This option can cost anywhere from $20 to $40 per day for a small truck, and up to $70 per day for a larger truck.
Additionally, you’ll need to factor in the cost of gas and any additional fees such as mileage charges. While this option can be cheaper, it also requires more work and planning on your part.
Here’s an example of a cost estimate for a DIY move based on a 1000-mile move and a 2-bedroom apartment:
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Truck Rental | $500 – $800 (5-7 day rental) |
| Fuel | $250 – $500 |
| Packing Supplies | $100 – $300 |
| Equipment Rental | $50 – $100 |
| Insurance | $100 – $300 |
| Labor | $400 – $1000 (based on 4-10 hours of labor) |
| Total Estimated Cost | $1400 – $3000 |
Before you start looking for a moving company, it’s essential to understand the factors that affect moving costs. The cost of your move can vary based on distance, the size of your home, the time of year, additional services, and insurance coverage.
The distance of your move is one of the most significant factors that affect moving costs. The farther the move, the higher the cost. The cost of moving long-distance is calculated based on the weight of your belongings and the distance they need to travel.
The size of your home is another crucial factor that affects moving costs. The larger your home, the more items you have to move, and the higher the cost. Typically, the cost of moving is calculated based on the weight of your belongings.
The time of year is another factor that affects moving costs. The peak moving season is from May to September, and rates are generally higher during this time. If you can move during the off-peak season, you may be able to save some money.
If you need additional services such as packing, unpacking, or storage, expect to pay more. These additional services can add up quickly, so it’s important to consider whether you really need them.
If you opt for full-value protection, your moving cost will increase. This type of coverage will protect your belongings in case they are lost, stolen, or damaged during the move.
Choosing the right moving company is crucial to ensure a smooth and stress-free move. In this section, we’ll discuss how to choose the right moving company.
Before hiring a moving company, it’s essential to research and check their credentials. Look for online reviews, ask for recommendations from friends and family, and check the company’s licensing and insurance.
Reading reviews can be helpful in choosing the right moving company. Look for reviews on websites like Yelp and Google, and pay attention to comments about the company’s professionalism, pricing, and punctuality.
It’s essential to compare moving estimates and choose the best one. Ask for estimates from multiple moving companies, and compare them based on price, services offered, and company reputation.
Before hiring a moving company, ask them important questions such as whether they have experience with your type of move, what kind of insurance they offer, and what their cancellation policy is.
There are some signs of a bad moving company to watch out for, such as asking for a large deposit upfront, refusing to give you a written estimate, or having a poor rating with the Better Business Bureau.
Choosing the right moving company is crucial to ensure a smooth and cost-effective move.
Here are our top 3 recommendations for moving companies that offer reliable and affordable services:
BEST OVERALL
4.9
BEST FOR LONG DISTANCE
4.7
BEST CUSTOMER REVIEWS
4.4
Moving can be expensive, but there are several ways to save money. In this section, we’ll discuss some smart strategies to help you save money on your move.
Timing can affect moving costs, and moving during the off-peak season can save you money. Try to schedule your move during the fall or winter months when rates are lower.
Additionally, consider moving mid-week or mid-month when rates are generally lower than on weekends or at the beginning or end of the month.
Packing efficiently can save you money on packing materials and can help reduce the weight of your belongings.
Use recycled materials for packing, such as newspapers or old blankets, and consider renting reusable moving boxes instead of buying new ones.
You can also save money by packing yourself instead of hiring professional packers.
Decluttering can save you money on moving costs by reducing the number of items you need to move. Consider donating or selling items you no longer need, and only take with you what you truly need. You can also save money by downsizing your home, which can help reduce the cost of the move.
Negotiating with a moving company can help you save money. Ask for a discount or a better price, and compare quotes from different companies to find the best deal.
You can also negotiate the terms of the contract, such as the payment schedule or liability coverage.
Finally, consider hiring a moving broker who can negotiate on your behalf and help you find the best moving company for your needs.
Aside from the moving company’s fees, there are additional costs that you need to consider when moving.
In this section, we’ll discuss the additional costs you need to consider and provide estimates of how much they may cost.
If you’re moving long-distance, you need to factor in travel costs such as gas, lodging, and meals. Plan ahead and try to find the most cost-effective options for your move.
The average cost of travel for a long-distance move can range from $300 to $1,500, depending on the distance and the mode of transportation.
You need to settle your utility bills before leaving your old home and set up new accounts in your new place. Factor in these costs when budgeting for your move.
The average cost of settling utility bills can range from $100 to $500, depending on the type of utilities and the location.
You need to clean your old home before leaving, and you may need to hire a cleaning service. Factor in these costs when budgeting for your move.
The average cost of hiring a professional cleaning service can range from $100 to $300, depending on the size of your home and the level of cleaning required.
If you need to store your items temporarily, you need to factor in storage costs. Compare prices from different storage companies, and choose the one that offers the best value for your money.
The average cost of storage can range from $50 to $200 per month, depending on the size of the unit and the location of the facility.
The average cost of moving a one-bedroom apartment locally is around $400 to $1,500, depending on the distance of the move and the services you need. For long-distance moves, the cost can range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more.
Yes, you can move your car with your household items. Many moving companies offer auto transport services, but these services come at an additional cost.
The cost of transporting a car can range from $500 to $1,500, depending on the distance and the type of vehicle.
The cheapest way to move long distances is to rent a moving truck and do the move. Alternatively, you can use a freight trailer service or a moving container service, which can be cheaper than hiring a full-service moving company.
Yes, you can negotiate with a moving company to lower their rates. It’s always a good idea to get multiple quotes from different companies and compare them. Once you have multiple quotes, you can use them as leverage to negotiate a better rate with the moving company of your choice.
To find a reputable moving company, you can ask for recommendations from friends and family, check online reviews and ratings, and make sure the company is licensed and insured.
You can also look for moving companies that are members of reputable industry associations, such as the American Moving and Storage Association.
Moving can be stressful, but with proper planning and research, you can save money and ensure a smooth move. Take the time to understand the factors that affect moving costs, choose the right moving company, and factor in all additional costs. By planning ahead and following these tips, you can make your move more affordable and stress-free.
Meet Harrison, a writer with a real passion for real estate and moving. For the past three years, he's been putting his writing skills to use for companies in these industries, but his experience with moving extends far beyond his keyboard. In fact, he's moved over a dozen times himself, sometimes with the help of professionals, and other times by taking on the move all on his own. Through these experiences, he's learned some valuable lessons about what can make a move a breeze, and what can turn it into a stressful nightmare. And when he's not busy writing, you can find him researching ways to make his next move as smooth and easy as possible.