Moving Cost Estimator

How Movers Price Your Move

Local moves (under 100 miles) are typically charged by the hour. usually $80–$160 per hour for a two-person crew and truck, plus a travel fee. Long-distance moves are priced by weight (pounds of belongings) and distance, or increasingly by cubic footage. A 3-bedroom home typically weighs 5,000–7,500 lbs. Binding estimates lock in a price; non-binding estimates are subject to change based on actual weight. Always ask for a binding estimate in writing. Additional charges to watch for: stair carries, long carries (distance from truck to door), elevator waits, disassembly/reassembly, and packing materials.

Getting and Comparing Quotes

Get at least three quotes from FMCSA-registered movers (required for interstate moves). Reputable movers will do an in-home or virtual video survey of your belongings before quoting. avoid companies that quote over the phone without seeing what's being moved. Compare quotes by looking at what's included: does the price include packing materials, disassembly, and insurance? A low base quote with everything charged separately can easily exceed a higher all-inclusive quote. Check reviews on multiple platforms (Google, Yelp, Better Business Bureau) and verify registration at FMCSA.dot.gov for interstate moves.

Peak vs Off-Peak Timing

Moving costs 20–40% more during peak season (May through September) and at month-end when leases typically turn over. Moving companies are in highest demand on the last and first few days of each month. Mid-week moves (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) are typically cheaper than Friday through Sunday. If your schedule is flexible, moving in late fall or winter. particularly January through March. can yield significant discounts, easier scheduling, and better service since crews aren't overbooked. Even shifting a move from the last week of the month to mid-month can reduce costs noticeably.

Reducing Moving Costs

Decluttering before a move directly reduces cost. movers charge by weight or time, and moving items you'll discard is pure waste. Packing yourself is the single biggest cost lever: full-service packing adds $300–$1,500 depending on home size. Use free boxes from grocery stores, liquor stores, and Buy Nothing groups rather than buying moving supplies. For short distances, renting a truck yourself and hiring helpers from a local labor platform costs 40–60% less than full-service movers. Move valuables, documents, and breakables in your own vehicle to reduce insurance risk and packing requirements.

Sources & Further Reading

• FMCSA. Know Your Rights When You Move
• U.S. Census Bureau. Geographic Mobility/Migration
• Moving.com. Average Moving Costs