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.