How much does it cost to hire movers

Hiring movers is kind of like ordering takeout on a busy night—it saves you time and energy, but the final bill might leave you wondering if it was really worth it.

And yet, for many people, figuring out the cost of hiring movers feels like guessing the weather three weeks from now—there are plenty of variables and not much clarity.

So, how much does it actually cost to hire movers these days?

The truth is that moving costs vary depending on several factors, including distance, time of year, how much stuff you have, and even whether there’s an elevator in your new place.

Did you know that approximately 7 million households move each year, many of them relying on professional movers to handle the logistics?

Plus, a recent survey shows that 60% of movers now request multiple quotes before making a decision, showing a sharp shift toward price comparison and transparency.

That’s why understanding mover pricing, comparing quotes, and spotting hidden fees is crucial if you’re aiming to stretch your budget without sacrificing peace of mind.

We’ll explain everything you need to know, from what influences moving costs to tips on finding affordable movers.

The Average Cost to Hire Movers

Before you start budgeting or comparing quotes, it helps to know what you’re up against. So, let’s talk about the average cost of hiring movers.

For a local move, you can expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $1,500

For long-distance moving costs, things shift dramatically. If you’re crossing state lines or moving over 100 miles away, you’re looking at a minimum of $2,500, and it can go up to $5,000 or more for larger homes or coast-to-coast relocations.

Here’s a quick breakdown to give you a ballpark idea:

Local Move (1-bedroom apartment): $300–$700
Local Move (3-bedroom home): $1,000–$1,500
Long-Distance Move (1-bedroom): $1,200–$3,500
Long-Distance Move (3-bedroom): $3,000–$7,000

So, when people ask, “How much do movers charge?” the real answer is that it depends. But now you’ve got a baseline to work from.

Detailed Moving Costs by Type of Service

Now that you have a rough idea of the average cost of hiring movers, let’s explore the specifics.

Here’s a breakdown of common moving services and what they generally cost:

Local Move
This option is ideal for short-distance moves, based on how long the movers work—perfect for smaller jobs with fewer surprises.

Category	Detail
Pricing Model	Hourly Rate + Labor
Cost Range	$300 – $700
1-Bedroom Move	$300 – $500
2-Bedroom Move	$500 – $700
3-Bedroom Move	$700 – $900
Important Notes	Peak season pricing may be higher.
Additional Fees	Stair Fees, Packing Fees, Long Carry Charges

Long-Distance Move
Moving across state lines? These moves are priced by distance and weight and often come with higher base rates and more variables.

Category	Detail
Pricing Model	Flat Rate / Weight-Based
Cost Range	$2,500+
1-Bedroom Move	$2,500 – $4,000
2-Bedroom Move	$4,000 – $6,000
3-Bedroom Move	$5,500 – $8,000
Important Notes	Pricing depends on weight and distance.
Additional Fees	Fuel Charges, Extra Miles, Insurance Coverage

International Move
International moves involve more complex logistics and can be significantly more expensive due to shipping, customs, and distance.

Category	Detail
Pricing Model	Weight-Based / Volume-Based / Distance + Service Level
Cost Range	$3,000 – $12,000+
1-Bedroom Move	$3,000 – $6,000
2-Bedroom Move	$5,000 – $9,000
3-Bedroom Move	$8,000 – $12,000+
Important Notes	Costs vary greatly by destination, shipping method (air vs sea), and customs fees.
Additional Fees	Customs Duties, Port Fees, Documentation Charges, Insurance, Storage, Crating

Full-Service Movers
Full-service movers handle everything, including packing, loading, and unloading. This comprehensive service is perfect for those looking for a hands-off moving experience.

Category	Detail
Pricing Model	Full-Service Movers
Cost Range	$1,000 – $6,000
1-Bedroom Move	$1,000 – $2,500
2-Bedroom Move	$2,000 – $3,500
3-Bedroom Move	$3,000 – $5,000
Important Notes	Full service includes packing and loading.
Additional Fees	Packing Fees, Insurance Coverage, Special Item Handling

Specialty Movers (Pianos, Antiques, etc.)
Specialty movers are equipped to handle valuable, oversized, or fragile items such as pianos, antiques, and fine art. Their services are tailored to meet the specific needs of these items, which often require custom packing and extra care.

Category	Detail
Pricing Model	Specialty Movers
Cost Range	$300 – $1,500
1-Bedroom Move	$300 – $500
2-Bedroom Move	$400 – $900
3-Bedroom Move	$600 – $1,200
Important Notes	Pricing depends on the type of specialty item.
Additional Fees	Special Equipment, Custom Packaging, Extra Labor

Know What Affects Your Moving Cost

Understanding the factors that influence the cost of hiring movers is essential for planning your move.

Here’s what can impact your moving costs:

Size of Your Move: The more items you have, the higher the cost. Larger moves often require more labor and a bigger truck.

Distance: Long-distance travel costs are naturally higher than those of local relocation. More mileage means more fuel, time, and effort involved.

Time of Year: Peak moving season (summer, weekends, holidays) sees higher rates due to demand. Moving during the off-season can help lower your moving services pricing.

Accessibility: Stairs, narrow hallways, and elevators can add extra labor charges, especially if your new place has limited access.

Packing Services: Some movers offer packing services, which can add to the cost but save you time. Consider if this is worth it for you.

Insurance Coverage: If you choose additional insurance for your move, this will affect your final quote. Always weigh the risks and benefits before adding coverage.

DIY vs. Hiring Movers: Which Is Cheaper?

When it comes to moving, there’s a big question on everyone’s mind: is hiring movers worth the cost, or can you save by going the DIY route? Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide.

Cost Factor	DIY Moving	Hiring Movers
Truck Rental	$20–$40/day + mileage and fuel	Included in the total cost
Labor	Free (friends/family) or paid snacks/gifts	$25–$50 per mover/hour
Time	Takes longer and can lead to extra costs	Faster, saves time and energy
Additional Costs	Packing supplies, equipment rental, and injuries	Packing, insurance, and extra time charges

Understand What’s in a Moving Quote
When requesting a moving quote, it’s essential to understand what’s included. Typically, it covers labor (loading, transporting, unloading), truck rental, and sometimes a mileage charge.

If packing is required, packing supplies like boxes and tape may also be included.

Be aware of the three types of quotes:

Binding: A fixed price that won’t change.
Non-Binding: An estimate that may vary depending on the actual time and materials used.
Not-to-Exceed: A quote that won’t go over a certain amount, even if the actual cost is higher.

Always ask for a detailed moving quote to make sure you know exactly what you’re paying for and avoid any surprises.

Tips to Find Affordable Moving Services

Finding affordable moving services doesn’t mean compromising on quality. Here are a few tips to help you save without sacrificing peace of mind:

Compare multiple quotes: Don’t settle for the first estimate—shopping around can help you find the best deal.
Book in advance: Scheduling movers early can save you money, especially during peak seasons.
Move during off-peak seasons: Rates tend to be lower in the winter months when demand is less.
Declutter to reduce cost: The fewer items you have, the less you’ll pay—consider donating or selling things you don’t need.
Check licenses and reviews: Make sure the company is reputable, licensed, and insured. It’ll prevent costly mistakes down the road.

FAQs

How much does it cost to hire movers for a local move?

The cost of hiring movers for a local move typically ranges from $300 to $1,500, depending on the size of your home, the distance, and any additional services you may need.

What factors affect the cost of hiring movers?

Moving costs can vary based on the size of your move, the distance between locations, the time of year, the accessibility of your new home, and any additional services like packing or insurance.

Are there any hidden fees when hiring movers?

Yes, additional charges may include packing supplies, elevator fees, stairs fees, long carry charges, and fuel costs for long-distance moves. Always ask for a detailed quote to avoid surprises.

How can I find affordable moving services?

To find affordable moving services, compare multiple quotes, book in advance, move during off-peak seasons, and consider decluttering your home to reduce the amount of stuff being moved.

What’s the difference between an hourly rate and a flat rate for movers?

An hourly rate means you pay for the time movers spend on your move, while a flat rate is a set price based on factors like distance and the size of your home. Each has pros and cons depending on the type of move.