Imagine going on a road trip. You’re excited and driving, but in the middle of nowhere, you realize you didn’t check the fuel. The feeling of “what to expect next” will be stuck in your head. It’s the same when you forget to use a moving cost calculator and plan your moving budget in advance.
Without it, expect a lot of surprises when you see the final bill, which may even go well over your budget. Therefore, to help you avoid surprises, the moving cost calculator above is designed to keep you prepared with an estimated price.
Budget with confidence, and get a complete guide to moving costs below!
How Much Does a Move Cost?
Moving costs can vary depending on the size of your move, the distance, and the type of service you opt for. However, ThisOldHouse.com data shows that the average cost of moving is $3,020. This was according to a survey conducted in 2025.
The cost also depends on whether you are moving locally or long-distance. A local move with a small apartment will be less expensive compared to a long-distance move with multiple bedrooms.
In the next sections, let’s take a closer look at multiple types of moving costs and estimates.
Local Move Cost
A local move is usually one that is under or around 100 miles. Within this distance, the local move cost can range anywhere from $920 to $2,530, with hourly rates typically starting at $115 for 2 movers and 1 truck during discount periods and reaching up to $445 for 4 movers and 1 truck during high-peak season.
It’s crucial to note that when we calculate a local move, the cost will depend on the hours worked, add-ons, the number of movers, and other factors. Before booking, it helps to understand common moving expenses, from packing supplies to tipping movers, so nothing catches you off guard on moving day.
Most local moving companies charge a minimum of two to three hours. Mid-week and off-peak season bookings are usually cheaper than bookings during the summer months or on weekends.
Long-Distance Move Cost
A long-distance move can cost you $3,124 on average. However, the cost can be lower or higher depending on the distance. When we discuss a long-distance move, it’s important to understand that it includes anything that requires traveling more than 400 miles or crossing a state line.
To put that into perspective, the data shows that Americans who moved more than 100 miles spent an average of $3,291 in 2024. Costs are usually calculated based on the weight of your belongings and the total mileage. Fuel, tolls, taxes, packing, and storage fees can add to your final bill.
Here’s a basic breakdown:
(4-bedroom home)
(4-bedroom home) up to $9,228
We’ve also shared a detailed guide to long-distance moving, highlighting key aspects such as insurance, pricing, tips, and more.
Factors That Affect Moving Costs
Multiple factors influence the moving cost. Some of the key important aspects to remember include:
Distance of Your Move:
The more distance you have to travel, the higher the charges will be. Local movers generally charge by the hour, whereas long-distance or interstate moves are typically priced based on the number of trucks required and the distance traveled.
Time of the Year:
The peak season for moving in the United States is usually from May through September. If you move during this period, the overall cost will be higher due to increased demand. The same move that costs $115 per hour during the off-season may cost you double during the peak season. If possible, try moving during January and February for lower rates.
Home Size and Volume of Belongings:
The more items you have, the more time it will take to load them. In addition, they will also take up more space in the moving truck. This is especially true for big families or larger houses. So, if you have a studio apartment, your move will cost you less compared to moving from a multiple-bedroom home.
This is also one of the reasons why we constantly urge people to donate, give away, or throw away items they no longer use or need. This helps with decluttering and saves you money and space in your new home, too.
Additional Services/Add-ons:
If you opt for additional services like packing, unpacking, assembling furniture, or handling special items like antiques and pianos, they will add to your total bill. For instance, movers can charge $300 to $1,500+ for handling special items.
When you discuss the pricing, make sure to ask your mover about any add-ons, whether they are part of the total estimate or will be added separately. This will give you better clarity.
Pricing Model:
Not every moving company has the same pricing model. How they choose to charge their customers also has an impact on the overall pricing structure of the move. Hourly rates or fixed charges will determine how much you will pay in total.
If you’re unsure about which pricing structure works best for your situation, you can check out our guide on hourly vs. flat-rate movers, where we have broken down the pros and cons of each.
Practical Tips to Save Money On Your Move
While moving costs may seem like too much, a little planning can help you cut down on the costs. Here are some practical ways to lower moving expenses:
Book movers early:
For better rates, make sure to book your movers at least 4 to 8 weeks in advance.
Get at least three quotes:
Rather than going with just one, get multiple quotes from different local movers. Once you have the estimates, compare them based on the pricing, the services they offer, the company's reputation, and more. This will help you lock in the best price.
Go with DIY packing:
If you opt for professional packing, it’s going to add an extra couple of hundred dollars to your final bill. To save that money, you can pack by yourself. Use free boxes from local grocery stores or community groups to save even more while packing.
Look for hidden fees:
You may not be aware of it, but movers might add hidden fees to your total bill. Therefore, ask them upfront (before the move) about stair charges, fuel surcharges, long-carry charges, and more.
Move during the off-peak season:
As mentioned above, avoid the peak moving season between May and September if possible. If your situation requires moving during the peak season, book your movers as early as possible to avoid higher rates.
The above tips are not the only ways to cut down on costs. For a deeper breakdown, refer to our guide on ways to save money on your next move. This guide will give you better clarity and help you save money.
Wrapping Up!
Moving costs are not one-size-fits-all. They totally depend on the distance, the belongings you are carrying, your home size, the number of trucks, storage space, the types of services, and more. While the average cost can range anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000+, the exact price will depend on your specific situation.
The best way to get an accurate estimate is by contacting movers directly. Our calculator above will help you get an instant quote tailored to your move.
