How Much Does a Moving Company Cost?

Learn what moving companies charge. Local moves cost $300-1,500, long-distance moves cost $2,000-7,500 depending on distance and size.

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Quick Answer

Local moves cost $300-1,500 ($25-50 per mover per hour). Long-distance moves cost $2,000-7,500 based on weight and distance. A 2-bedroom local move averages $400-800; cross-country moves start at $3,000+.

Key Takeaways

Local moves (under 100 miles) are typically charged hourly.
Stairs, long carries, and difficult access add $50-150 to the total.
Weekends and month-end dates cost 10-20% more than mid-week, mid-month moves.

Explanation

Local moves (under 100 miles) are typically charged hourly. Rates range from $25-50 per mover per hour, with most companies requiring a 2-3 hour minimum. A 2-3 mover team for a 2-bedroom usually takes 4-6 hours.

Long-distance moves are priced by weight (usually cents per pound) plus distance. Expect $0.50-1.00 per pound for cross-country moves. A 2-bedroom home's contents typically weigh 5,000-7,500 lbs.

Additional costs include packing services ($25-40/hour), packing materials ($100-300), moving insurance, storage, and special items like pianos ($150-500 extra). Always get binding estimates to avoid surprises.

Things to Know

Stairs, long carries, and difficult access add $50-150 to the total.
Weekends and month-end dates cost 10-20% more than mid-week, mid-month moves.
Get at least three quotes and verify movers are licensed and insured.