How Much Does a Moving Company Cost?
Moving company costs depend on distance, home size, and services needed. A local move (under 50 miles) for a 2-bedroom home typically costs $400–$1,500, while a long-distance move (500+ miles) runs $2,000–$7,000+. Full-service moves including packing, loading, transport, and unpacking cost 50–100% more than load-and-go. According to the American Moving & Storage Association, the average interstate move costs around $4,890.
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Browse providersAverage moving costs by home size
| Home size | Local move (USD) | Long-distance move (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1-bedroom | $300–$800 | $1,500–$3,500 |
| 2-bedroom | $500–$1,500 | $2,500–$5,000 |
| 3-bedroom | $800–$2,500 | $3,500–$7,000 |
| 4-bedroom | $1,000–$3,500 | $4,500–$10,000 |
| 5+ bedroom | $1,500–$5,000 | $6,000–$15,000+ |
Sources: AMSA industry data, Moving.com cost calculator, HomeAdvisor 2025.
What affects the cost?
- Distance — local moves charge by the hour ($80–$200/hour for a crew); long-distance moves charge by weight and mileage
- Volume and weight — more stuff = higher cost; a 3-bedroom home averages 7,500 lbs of belongings
- Packing services — full packing service adds $300–$2,000 depending on home size
- Specialty items — pianos ($200–$600), pool tables ($300–$600), safes, hot tubs cost extra
- Stairs and access — walk-ups, narrow hallways, and long carries add $50–$200 per flight/obstacle
- Season — summer (May–September) is peak season with 20–30% higher rates; end-of-month is also pricier
- Insurance — basic coverage (60¢/lb) is included; full replacement value adds $100–$500
Costs by country
Moving costs in the United States
Local movers charge $80–$200/hour for a 2–3 person crew with truck. A typical local move for a 2-bedroom apartment takes 4–6 hours, totaling $400–$1,200. Long-distance moves are priced by weight — around $0.50–$0.80 per pound plus a base rate. The average cross-country move (2,500 miles) costs $4,500–$8,000 for a 3-bedroom home. Always get at least 3 in-home or virtual estimates, and verify the company is registered with FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) for interstate moves.
Watch for red flags: unusually low estimates (common with rogue movers), large cash deposits upfront, or no physical address. Reputable movers provide a binding or not-to-exceed estimate after assessing your belongings.
How to save on moving costs
- Move mid-week and mid-month — weekday and mid-month rates are 15–25% lower than weekends and month-end
- Move in winter — off-peak season (October–April) can save 20–30% on rates
- Pack yourself — DIY packing saves $300–$2,000; use free boxes from grocery or liquor stores
- Declutter before moving — fewer items = lower weight = lower cost; sell or donate what you don't need
- Get 3+ in-home estimates — never accept a quote over the phone without a walkthrough
- Consider hybrid moves — load a portable container (PODS, U-Pack) yourself and have it shipped
Learn about the trade
How to become a professional mover: licensing, DOT requirements, salary expectations, and career paths in the US, Poland, and the Netherlands.
How to become a mover