Moving Cost Calculator

How much do movers cost?

The median expenditure for a local relocation stands at $1,250, while a long-distance move, covering a span of 1,000 miles, averages at $4,890. These figures pertain to the relocation of a 2 to 3 bedroom residence, with an estimated total weight of around 7,500 pounds.

Local move cost

Transitioning within the same neighborhood or to an adjacent town is classified as a local move. The cost of local moves varies significantly based on the size of the residence and the volume of items being transported. For instance, relocating a studio apartment may cost as low as $501, whereas moving a 4-5 bedroom house can escalate to $2,988 or more. These estimates are contingent upon the dimensions of the property and the quantity of possessions involved in the move.

Cost of Movers Per Hour

The investment range for engaging a labor-only moving service typically spans from $38 to $75 per mover, per hour for local relocations. Consequently, the expense for two movers laboring for a duration of four hours averages approximately $424. Included herein is a table that delineates the average total cost associated with hiring movers, calculated based on the size of the residence and the standard hourly rate of $53 per mover. This data serves to furnish stakeholders with a comprehensive understanding of financial expectations when employing moving services, thereby facilitating informed decision-making.

Long Distance Move Cost

The costs associated with long-distance relocations are influenced by several critical factors, including fuel prices, toll fees, and the necessity to adequately compensate drivers for their time and service. It is important for individuals planning a move to understand that the financial requirements of such undertakings can vary significantly. Specifically, the expenses for long-distance moving services can range from approximately $1,123 to in excess of $14,107. This variance is primarily dependent on the total distance of the move and the volume of goods being transported. As a result, individuals should prepare for these potential costs by considering both the mileage and the size of the move in their planning processes. This approach ensures a more accurate financial planning and resource allocation for a successful relocation experience.

How to Calculate Moving Costs

To ascertain the cost of your relocation, we invite you to utilize our complimentary moving cost calculator. Please provide the starting point of your move and the address of your destination. Select the scale of your move (measured in bedrooms), the required packing services, and your intended move date through our drop-down menu. Our algorithm will consider these variables to generate an accurate cost projection from leading moving companies. This tool is crafted to offer precise, actionable insights, leveraging our industry expertise to facilitate your planning process.

Factors that Affect Your Moving Cost

When calculating moving expenses, it is imperative to incorporate all necessary moving costs and additional financial considerations. These encompass:

• Travel fees – When relocating over long distances, it is essential to consider the cumulative impact of travel expenses. These expenses encompass both fuel costs and labor costs, the latter of which accounts for the duration required for movers to transit from the origin to the destination. This analysis is critical for individuals and organizations planning a move, underscoring the importance of budgeting for these significant financial considerations.
• Size of your move Transporting a large volume of items not only extends the duration of the moving process but also increases the weight of the shipment, leading to a potential rise in costs. It is essential to understand that the quantity of possessions being moved directly correlates with the overall expense of the relocation process.
• Packing services – Opting for professional movers to handle the packing of your belongings incurs an additional cost, potentially amounting to several hundred dollars or more. However, the investment in professional packing services can significantly outweigh the costs by saving valuable time, energy, and eliminating the complexities associated with packing an entire household. It is a strategic decision that offers efficiency and peace of mind, making it a worthwhile consideration for those prioritizing convenience and effectiveness in their moving process.
• Moving add-ons – The final cost of your relocation will be influenced by the selection of additional services. Opting for services such as the disassembly and reassembly of furniture, transportation of specialty items, and the provision of moving supplies including stretch wrap, felt pads, and mattress bags, can impact the overall expenses. It is critical for clients to understand these potential variables to make informed decisions regarding their moving process. Engaging in these services may enhance the efficiency and safety of the move, ensuring valuable possessions are protected throughout the transition.
• Storage – For clients navigating complex relocations, engaging a moving company to secure or warehouse possessions pre, during, or post-move is advisable. However, anticipate additional charges for these services. Storage fees differ across providers, hence, it is imperative to request detailed pricing information. This approach ensures informed decision-making based on accurate, company-specific data.
• Moving supplies – Should you find it challenging to secure a sufficient number of complimentary boxes for your relocation, it becomes imperative to allocate resources for the acquisition of moving supplies. These essentials encompass cardboard boxes, plastic containers, bubble wrap, packing paper, and additional materials requisite for the move. Prioritizing the procurement of these supplies will facilitate a streamlined and efficient relocation process.
• Moving date – It is essential to recognize that the timing of your relocation is as critical as the manner in which you execute it. The chosen date significantly impacts the overall cost. For instance, opting for a weekend or peak-season move invariably results in higher expenses compared to selecting a weekday during the off-season. This information underscores the importance of strategic planning to optimize cost-efficiency in moving processes.
• Liability and valuation coverage – When engaging a moving company, procuring liability coverage becomes imperative. Most providers offer a tiered approach to protection, including Basic Release Value Protection and Full Value Protection. It is advisable to consider acquiring additional moving insurance through a third-party provider to ensure comprehensive coverage. This strategic approach to selecting the appropriate level of protection is essential for safeguarding your possessions during the relocation process.

Additional Moving Costs and Fees to Consider

To accommodate your specific relocation requirements, additional charges may apply for specialized services and enhancements. It is crucial to assess these potential expenses to ensure a comprehensive understanding of your moving budget and needs.

• Specialty moving – Transporting specialty items necessitates specific materials and expertise. For those requiring the relocation of items such as pianos, hot tubs, valuable artworks, or grandfather clocks, additional costs are anticipated. This requirement is due to the specialized handling and materials needed to ensure the safe and secure transport of these items. It is essential for individuals to consider these factors when planning the logistics of moving such unique items, to ensure both the safety of the item and the efficiency of the move.
• Long carry fee – Should the distance between a household’s access point and the moving truck exceed a certain threshold, resulting in the need for movers to transport items over a longer distance, a long carry fee may be applied. This specific fee arises under circumstances where parking proximity to the residence is not achievable. It is a critical consideration for individuals planning a move to understand that strategic parking logistics can significantly impact overall moving costs. Ensuring awareness of such fees and planning accordingly can aid in managing expenses effectively.
• Stair carry fee – The fee in question applies when there is a necessity for movers to transport possessions across multiple flights of stairs. This situation predominantly arises in residences with several stories or an above-average count of steps. It is imperative for clients to be aware of these potential additional costs to ensure accurate budget planning and to mitigate any unforeseen expenses during the moving process.
• Elevator fee – Should your relocation involve a high-rise apartment building necessitating the use of an elevator, be advised that an elevator fee may be applicable.
• Unpacking service – Should you require assistance with unpacking your belongings, and the removal of supplies and debris, be advised that most moving companies charge an additional fee for this comprehensive service. This charge compensates for the time and labor involved. Opting for this service can significantly enhance your moving experience by ensuring a seamless transition to your new location. It is recommended to discuss these services in advance with your chosen provider to understand the scope and associated costs, enabling informed decision-making.
• Shuttle fee – Shuttle services, provided by some moving companies, are a critical solution for transporting belongings to and from the moving truck, particularly when direct vehicle access to a residence is not possible. This necessity often arises in scenarios where the home’s location—potentially in remote areas devoid of parking facilities—precludes the moving truck from parking in close proximity. Utilizing a shuttle service ensures the seamless transfer of items between the home and the truck, underscoring its importance in planning and executing efficient moving strategies.
• Storage – Should you require storage solutions at any stage of your move—be it prior, during, or subsequent to the relocation process—it is important to be aware that additional fees will apply for services such as short-term, long-term, and storage-in-transit.
• Extra stops – Should the need arise for additional stops during a move, it’s important to understand that this will incur additional costs. These costs are calculated based on several factors, including the total number of stops required, as well as the distance and labor associated with each stop. For instance, if a mover is required to visit a storage unit to collect items before proceeding to the final destination, this will be factored into the overall cost. It is essential for clients to be aware of these potential expenses to adequately plan and budget for their moving process.
• Expedited delivery services – For individuals requiring swift relocation, it’s crucial to understand that long-distance moves can extend up to two weeks. Should your circumstances necessitate the expedited delivery of items, be prepared to incur additional costs for these accelerated services. This approach ensures both the efficiency and effectiveness of your moving process, aligning with the need for timely and strategic planning.
• Tipping – Although tipping is not mandatory, it is highly valued as a gesture of gratitude for exemplary service. Should you decide to tip your movers, it’s advisable to have cash readily available.

10 Easy Ways to Cut Moving Costs

Looking to save money on your next move? Here are several easy ways to cut costs when moving to a new home.

1. Get rid of your excess belongings – To reduce costs during a move, it’s crucial to carefully pare down non-essential household items. Start the decluttering process early by thoroughly organizing your closet, then methodically tackle each room. Consider donating excess furniture, clothes, and other items. This strategic approach not only streamlines your move but also contributes to a less cluttered, more manageable new beginning. For individuals looking to monetize their possessions, several avenues are available, such as consignment, hosting a garage sale, or utilizing online platforms like Craigslist. For detailed instructions on conducting an effective pre-move purge, consult our meticulously designed guide. This method streamlines the moving process and considerably cuts down on costs, highlighting our dedication to delivering practical, actionable advice based on years of experience.

2. Rent a moving truck – Thinking of taking on a DIY move? You could save thousands of dollars by renting a truck and moving yourself. If moving a large household, consider renting the 26 ft. truck rental option from a reputable truck rental company. These large trucks are capable of holding four-plus bedrooms. To find a large moving truck that best fits your budget and needs, check out Moving.com’s truck rental center. Our truck rental center provides discounts on various truck rental companies in your area, as well as more information on the truck rental process.

3. Enlist friends and family to help – Unless you’re prepared to pay for professional movers or labor assistance, try asking friends and family for their help. Make sure to give them plenty of notice when asking for their assistance with a move. Also, be sure that those people are more than capable of lifting heavy boxes and appliances.

4. Find free moving boxes and supplies – To effectively reduce moving expenses, it is advisable to procure complimentary moving boxes and supplies from sources such as local liquor stores, large retail chains, grocery outlets, recycling centers, office complexes, and educational institutions. Additionally, platforms like Craigslist, Freecycle, U-Haul Box Exchange, Nextdoor.com, and community-based Facebook groups offer a resource for obtaining free materials. For further cost-saving measures, Moving.com’s online box center presents an option for purchasing necessary moving boxes and supplies at competitive rates through partnerships with UBoxes.com and UsedCardboardBoxes.com. As a strategic approach, utilize our Packing Calculator to ascertain the precise quantity of boxes required for relocation, ensuring efficiency and cost-effectiveness in the moving process.

5. Rent a portable moving container – Opting for a portable moving container offers a fantastic alternative to engaging full-service movers. The rental cost varies based on the duration of use and container size. Utilizing a container simplifies the moving process: simply load your belongings, and the container company handles the transportation. Leading providers in the moving container sector include PODS, ABF’s U-Pack ReloCubes, United Mayflower, Door-to-Door storage, U-Haul’s U-Boxes, and 1-800-PACK-RAT, known for their reliability and service quality.

6. Look into moving discounts – Those with a AAA membership may be eligible to receive special moving and storage discounts. For example, Atlas Van Lines offers free Full Value Protection to AAA members moving to a new state. In addition, members of the military may be eligible to receive discounts on moving companies, truck rentals and more.

7. Pack yourself – It may appear self-evident, yet substantial savings can be achieved through self-packing. Professional movers often provide packing services, but these come at a significant cost. Packing fees differ across moving companies but invariably involve a considerable expense, often amounting to several hundred dollars. For cost efficiency, self-packing is recommended, or alternatively, seeking assistance from friends and family. This approach not only reduces expenses but also ensures greater control over the packing process.

8. Choose a less expensive move date – Choosing the optimal timing for your move can significantly impact the overall expenses associated with relocation. It is advisable to schedule your move during the middle of the month and week. This period typically experiences the lowest demand for moving services, resulting in more favorable pricing. Although weekend relocations may offer convenience, it is important to consider the limited availability of weekends throughout the year, leading to heightened competition for these dates. Individuals with the ability to take a weekday off for moving purposes are encouraged to do so to potentially reduce costs. Furthermore, it is noteworthy that approximately 70 percent of relocations occur between Memorial Day and Labor Day, marking this as the peak moving season. To achieve cost savings, planning a move during the late fall to winter months is recommended, as this time is outside the high-demand season. This strategic timing approach not only optimizes financial efficiency but also aligns with best practices for managing relocation logistics.

9. Obtain quotes from multiple movers – Before engaging a moving service, it is advisable to conduct a thorough market comparison to secure the most favorable rate. It is prudent to solicit estimates from a minimum of three reputable moving firms. A credible mover will perform a comprehensive assessment of your items, either through an in-person evaluation or a virtual survey, prior to issuing a quotation. Internet-based estimates lack reliability and should be approached with caution. To obtain an accurate quotation, ensure the moving company is fully informed of any items requiring specialized handling. For the engagement of a dependable and professionally accredited moving service, consider selecting from Moving.com’s extensive network of licensed and insured moving companies.

10. Discover whether your moving expenses qualify for a tax deduction – don’t forget to keep your receipts! If you’ve made donations to charities before relocating, these contributions may be eligible for a deduction on your taxes. However, it’s important to note that moving expenses are no longer deductible, and this regulation will remain effective until at least 2025. Consequently, these deductions cannot be claimed on your federal tax return. Exceptions exist, such as if you’re correcting a prior return before the tax reform, or if you’re serving as an active military member. The IRS provides a tool to help ascertain if your moving expenses are deductible.