If you’re planning a move, one of your first questions is likely: How much does it cost to hire movers? Understanding the cost of hiring professional movers can help you plan your budget more efficiently and avoid unexpected surprises.
The cost to hire movers can vary greatly depending on a range of factors like distance, the size of your home, and additional services required. In this guide, we’ll explore the typical costs, factors that influence pricing, and offer practical tips to save money when hiring movers.
TLDR – Quick Guide
- Average cost for local movers: $80–$100 per hour for a team of two.
- Average cost for long-distance moves: $2,500–$5,000 depending on distance and load.
- Factors affecting cost: Move distance, load weight, additional services, and time of year.
- Ways to save money: Declutter, pack yourself, move during off-peak seasons, and compare quotes from multiple moving companies.
- Typical add-on costs: Packing services, specialty items (pianos, antiques), storage, and insurance coverage.
Average Cost of Local vs. Long-Distance Movers
One of the biggest determining factors in the cost of hiring movers is whether you’re moving locally or long-distance.
1. Local Moves
For local moves, which are typically defined as moves within the same city or less than 100 miles, movers usually charge an hourly rate. This rate depends on the number of movers and the size of your moving team.
- Average hourly rate: $80–$100 per hour for a team of two movers.
- Average total cost: For a 2-bedroom apartment, expect to pay $300–$700 for a local move (3–6 hours of labor).
Keep in mind that rates may increase if you have a larger home or if you require additional services like packing, disassembling furniture, or transporting specialty items.
2. Long-Distance Moves
For long-distance moves (over 100 miles or interstate), movers typically charge based on the weight of your belongings and the distance traveled.
- Average cost for a 1-bedroom home: $1,500–$2,500.
- Average cost for a 2–3-bedroom home: $2,500–$5,000.
- Larger homes: $7,500 or more, depending on the distance and total weight of the shipment.
Long-distance moves are often priced as a flat rate, but additional fees may apply for extra services.
Factors That Affect Moving Costs
When considering how much it costs to hire movers, it’s essential to understand the factors that can significantly influence pricing:
1. Move Distance
As mentioned, local moves are priced by the hour, while long-distance moves are calculated based on the total distance and weight. A cross-country move will obviously cost more than a short, local relocation.
2. Size and Weight of Your Load
The more items you have, the more time it will take for movers to pack, load, and transport them. Similarly, the heavier your load, the higher the cost for long-distance moves, as fuel and transportation costs rise.
3. Time of Year
Summer is peak moving season, and rates tend to be higher during this time due to increased demand. If possible, schedule your move during the fall or winter months when demand is lower, and prices are typically more affordable.
4. Additional Services
Hiring movers for additional services like packing, furniture assembly/disassembly, or transporting specialty items (pianos, antiques, etc.) can add significant costs to your move. Here’s a breakdown of common add-ons:
- Packing services: $300–$500 for a full-service pack.
- Storage: $100–$200 per month, depending on location and size.
- Specialty item handling: $200–$1,000 depending on the item.
- Insurance coverage: Additional coverage for high-value items can add another $100–$500 to your move.
How to Save Money on Hiring Movers
While moving can be expensive, there are several ways to reduce your costs without sacrificing quality or convenience:
1. Declutter Before the Move
The fewer items you have, the lower your moving costs will be. Take the time to declutter and get rid of unnecessary items. You can donate, sell, or recycle what you no longer need, which will reduce the weight and volume of your move.
2. Do Your Own Packing
Hiring movers to pack your belongings can be convenient but costly. Packing yourself can save you hundreds of dollars. Be sure to label boxes clearly and use proper packing materials to protect fragile items.
3. Move During the Off-Season
As mentioned earlier, summer is the busiest time for moving companies, which means higher prices. If you can, plan your move during the fall or winter months when demand is lower, and rates tend to be more competitive.
4. Get Multiple Quotes
Don’t settle for the first moving company you find. Get quotes from at least three different movers to compare pricing. Be sure to ask about any hidden fees and confirm what services are included in the quote.
5. Consider DIY Options
For smaller, local moves, renting a truck and doing the move yourself can save a lot of money. While this option requires more effort, it’s worth considering if you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind the labor.
Additional Costs to Be Aware Of
Aside from the core cost of moving, there are often additional expenses you may not initially consider. Here are a few examples:
- Tipping Movers: It’s customary to tip your movers for a job well done. Typically, this ranges from $20–$50 per mover, depending on the complexity and duration of the move.
- Travel Fees: For local moves, some companies may charge for the travel time to and from your location.
- Storage Fees: If your new home isn’t ready right away, you may need to store your belongings temporarily, which adds to the cost.
- Stairs or Elevator Fees: If you’re moving into or out of a building with stairs or no elevator, some movers will charge extra for the additional labor.
Key Takeaways
- The cost to hire movers depends on several factors, including the size of your move, the distance, and any additional services required.
- Local moves are usually charged by the hour, averaging $80–$100 per hour for two movers.
- Long-distance moves can range from $2,500–$5,000 depending on distance and load weight.
- To save on moving costs, declutter your home, pack your own belongings, schedule your move during off-peak seasons, and get multiple quotes from different moving companies.
- Be aware of additional costs like travel fees, storage, tipping, and fees for stairs or elevators.
FAQs
It’s best to book your movers at least 4–6 weeks in advance, especially if you plan to move during the busy summer months.
Yes, you can often negotiate the price, especially if you’ve received quotes from multiple companies. Don’t hesitate to ask about discounts or price matching.
Most moving companies offer basic liability coverage for free, but this only covers a small percentage of the item’s value. For full coverage, you may need to purchase additional insurance.
Moving costs are typically calculated based on factors like the distance of the move, the weight or volume of your belongings, and any additional services you need, such as packing or storage. Additional costs may arise from the number of movers required and the time spent on the move.
A moving price is the total cost you’ll pay for moving services, which includes transportation fees, labor charges, and any extra services like packing or insurance. It’s usually provided as a quote after assessing your specific moving needs and distance.
By understanding the factors that influence moving costs and taking advantage of cost-saving strategies, you can make your move more affordable and less stressful. Whether you’re moving locally or long-distance, hiring the right movers can make all the difference in your moving experience.