Average Moving Costs
Moving costs vary widely based on distance, home size, and services needed. Here's what to expect in 2025.
Local Moves (Under 100 Miles)
Local moves are typically charged by the hour. Based on booked job data:
- Studio/1-bedroom: $800-$1,200 (avg $977)
- 2-bedroom apartment: $1,200-$1,700 (avg $1,183-$1,638)
- 3-bedroom house: $1,700-$2,500 (avg $2,169)
- 4+ bedroom house: $2,900-$5,100+ (avg $2,898-$5,097)
Average hourly rate: $100-$200 per hour (includes 2-3 movers and a truck)
Long-Distance Moves (100+ Miles)
Long-distance moves are priced by volume and distance. Based on booked job data (601–1,000 mile range):
- Studio/1-bedroom: $1,100-$1,400
- 2-bedroom apartment: $1,500-$2,400
- 3-bedroom house: $2,400-$3,500
- 4+ bedroom house: $3,500-$5,000+
Cross-country moves (1,000+ miles) range from $1,300 for the smallest loads to $8,200+ for large homes.
Additional Service Costs
- Packing services: $500-$2,500 (full-service packing)
- Packing materials: $200-$600
- Piano moving: $300-$1,000
- Car shipping: $500-$1,500
- Storage: $50-$300 per month
- Furniture disassembly/assembly: $50-$100 per piece
Factors That Affect Moving Costs
Understanding these factors helps you estimate and potentially reduce your moving expenses.
Distance
The primary cost driver for long-distance moves. Interstate moves cost significantly more per mile than local relocations.
Volume and Weight
More belongings = higher costs. Professional movers charge based on the weight of your shipment or the volume it occupies in the truck.
Time of Year
- Peak season (May-September): 30-50% higher rates
- Off-season (October-April): Better rates and availability
- Month-end and weekends: Premium pricing
- Mid-month and weekdays: Lower rates
Accessibility
Factors that increase costs:
- Stairs or elevator (if not on ground floor)
- Long carry distance from parking to door
- Narrow streets or difficult parking
- Rural or remote locations
Special Items
Items requiring extra care cost more:
- Pianos and organs
- Antiques and fine art
- Pool tables
- Hot tubs
- Large appliances
Level of Service
- Self-service: You pack and load (cheapest)
- Labor-only: Movers load/unload, you drive (moderate)
- Full-service: Movers handle everything (most expensive but most convenient)
Understanding Pricing Structures
Different moves use different pricing models.
Hourly Rate (Local Moves)
- Charged per hour with a minimum (usually 2-4 hours)
- Includes labor and truck
- Simple and straightforward
- Watch for additional fees (fuel, stairs, etc.)
Binding Estimate (Long-Distance)
- Fixed price based on inventory list
- Price won't change unless you add items
- Most predictable option
- Get it in writing before signing
Non-Binding Estimate (Long-Distance)
- Estimated cost based on weight
- Final cost determined at weighing
- Could be higher or lower than estimate
- Riskier for budgeting
Binding Not-to-Exceed Estimate
- Sets a maximum price cap
- If shipment weighs less, you pay less
- Protects against overcharges
- Best of both worlds
Common Hidden Fees to Watch For
Be aware of these potential additional charges to avoid surprises.
Long Carry Fees
- Charged when movers must carry items more than 75 feet from truck to door
- Typically $50-$200
Stair or Elevator Fees
- Per flight of stairs: $20-$100
- Elevator usage may be included or charged separately
Bulky Item Charges
- Oversized or heavy items often incur surcharges
- $50-$500+ depending on the item
Shuttle Service
- Required when the moving truck can't access your location
- $150-$500 for transferring items to a smaller vehicle
Storage in Transit
- If you can't move in immediately
- Daily or monthly storage fees apply
- $50-$300+ per month
Fuel Surcharges
- Common for long-distance moves
- Usually 5-10% of total cost
Packing Materials
- Boxes, tape, bubble wrap if not provided
- $100-$500 depending on home size
10 Ways to Save Money on Your Move
Implement these strategies to reduce your moving costs significantly.
1. Move During Off-Peak Times
Schedule your move between October and April, mid-month, and on weekdays to save 30-50% compared to peak summer weekends.
2. Declutter Before You Move
Reducing your belongings by even 20% can significantly lower costs. Sell, donate, or discard items you no longer need.
3. Do Your Own Packing
Professional packing adds $500-$2,500 to your move. Pack yourself to save, but use proper materials for fragile items.
4. Use Free Packing Materials
- Collect boxes from grocery stores, liquor stores, and bookstores
- Use towels, linens, and clothing as padding
- Borrow bins from friends instead of buying boxes
5. Get Multiple Quotes
Always get at least 3-5 quotes. Prices can vary by 50% or more for the same move. Compare services carefully.
6. Ask About Discounts
Many movers offer discounts for:
- Military personnel and veterans
- Senior citizens
- Students
- Off-season moves
- Flexible moving dates
7. Move Fewer Items
The less you move, the less you pay. Consider:
- Selling large furniture and buying new at your destination
- Leaving appliances if your new home has them
- Donating bulky items with low resale value
8. Provide Your Own Packing Materials
If movers charge for supplies, bring your own boxes, tape, and padding to save $100-$300.
9. Handle Valuable Items Yourself
Move jewelry, important documents, and small valuables in your personal vehicle to avoid high-value item surcharges.
10. Consider a Hybrid Approach
Rent a portable storage container (like PODS) and load it yourself. The container company transports it. Often 30-50% cheaper than full-service movers for long distances.
Need an instant estimate? Use our Moving Cost Calculator to get a personalized quote based on your specific move details.