What is the average cost of hiring movers?
The average cost of hiring movers ranges from about $1,700 for local moves to nearly $5,000 for long-distance and cross-country moves. The amount you can expect to pay will vary based on factors such as the following:
- Whether you go DIY or hire a professional moving company
- How far you’re moving
- How much property you have in your home
- The size and location of the origin and destination property
For instance, local moving is going to be cheaper than hiring full-service movers to relocate you to an entirely different state. However, local moves can vary due to the type of property< https://crosscountrymortgage.com/mortgage/resources/types-of-homes-style/> you are moving to and from.
Movers will charge more if they are moving you from one third-floor apartment to another compared to a move from one first-floor apartment to another.
How do moving companies calculate the cost of a move?
Moving companies calculate what to charge you based on the following:
Distance of the move
Mileage is one of the primary factors in calculating the cost, especially for long-distance relocations. Many moving companies charge a flat rate plus mileage to account for fuel and wear and tear on the vehicle. This is one of those moving expenses that you have very little control over. Even if you rent a moving truck and do it yourself, you’ll incur a flat rental fee and mileage rate.
Size of your home and amount of belongings
The primary factor impacting your moving costs is the quantity of property that is being moved. Full-service movers will estimate the total weight and/or volume of your property, as that will impact how many labor hours are required to complete the job. Long-distance movers follow the same basic principle when calculating your rate.
If you go with the DIY approach, the home size will still impact your moving costs, as you will have to rent an appropriately-sized truck. The amount of property you are moving will also impact how many moving boxes and other supplies you have to purchase.
Labor, time and number of movers
These variables are not a factor for DIY moves. However, professional moving companies consider all three when providing a quote. A full pack and move, which means the laborers will pack for you, requires more labor hours than a move-only job. Compare different options to find a price that works for you.
Packing services and materials
Full-service movers will pack up everything, including dishes, clothing, furniture and appliances that are coming with you. While this service is convenient, it is also expensive. A skilled moving team can pack up an entire home and load it into a truck in a day or less, depending on the size of your home.
However, the company will bill you for both the labor and the materials they use to complete the job. This is one of the most expensive elements of full-service moves.
Time of year and moving day demand
Moving prices can fluctuate throughout the year, especially when services are in high demand. If possible, schedule your move outside of peak demand periods. The summer months and around the holiday season tend to be the most costly.
Local moving costs vs. long-distance moving costs
Local and long-distance moves vary greatly in terms of overall costs. Here’s how they stack up.
What to expect to pay for a local move
If you are moving locally, expect to pay somewhere around $1,700 to $2,000. If you go the DIY route, you may be able to keep that cost under $1,000. Your costs for a DIY local move will include:
- A moving truck
- Boxes
- Tape
- Packing supplies
- Equipment (e.g., a dolly)
The specific cost of your move will vary based on the number of belongings you have and the size of the truck you need to rent.
What to expect to pay for a long-distance move
Long-distance professional moves can have a total cost upwards of $5,000, especially if you pay for packing services as well. The good news is that professional moving companies typically have several different options available, and this allows you to compare packages and find a cost that makes sense for you.
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Full-service movers vs. DIY moving options
Here’s how DIY compares to hiring a full-service company.
Cost of hiring full-service movers
Full-service movers charge by the hour for labor as well as a flat rate plus mileage for transporting your property. You will incur additional costs for packaging and moving supplies. Expect to spend around $2,000 or more for full-service moves, depending on the size of your space.
Cost of renting a moving truck and doing it yourself
You can rent a truck for as little as $100 in some areas, although that does not include mileage and fuel charges. You could potentially move all of your property for under $1,000 if you are physically capable of doing the work yourself.
Which options make sense for your situation
First, consider whether a DIY move is physically possible, given your health and the size of your belongings. If it is possible, you should weigh the hassle of moving all of your own property against the money-saving opportunity. Is it worth it to you?
Fortunately, most moving companies offer free quotes. You could get a few quotes, just to compare your options using accurate information.
Additional moving expenses
Here are some added costs that many people overlook during a move:
Packing supplies
You will need boxes, tape and packing paper to secure your items. If you don’t have a dolly, you will also need to rent or buy one to move heavier items. This can add hundreds to your moving bill.
Storage fees
If there is a delay between moving out of your current residence and into your new one, be prepared to rent a storage unit. With the many different sizes available, it’s easy to find just the right amount of space you need. However, storage also represents an added expense of $100 per month or more.
Tips, insurance and liability coverage
If you are hiring movers, you may decide to leave them a tip. You will also need to purchase moving insurance and liability coverage to protect your property from any damage that occurs during the process.
How to estimate your moving cost
Many moving companies offer free moving cost calculators on their websites. Take advantage of one of these digital tools to obtain a ballpark estimate of how much you’ll pay to relocate. These estimates are very generalized based on the square footage of your home and how many bedrooms it contains.
How moving costs fit into buying a home
If you are preparing to buy a home, don’t forget to account for moving costs. You may spend thousands on your move, and that could be a shock if you don’t budget properly.
Moving costs vs. closing costs
Closing costs are paid at the mortgage closing. You should have an estimate of your closing costs early in the home-buying process. Moving costs are separate and will come up closer to moving day. Planning for both helps you avoid last-minute financial stress.
Final thoughts
How much do movers cost? As you can see, there are many factors at play. Planning ahead makes all the difference. By budgeting for moving expenses early, you’ll be able to focus less on logistics and more on settling into your new home with confidence.
