Local moves: crew size times hours
A move of about 50 miles or less is usually priced by the hour. You pay for a crew and a truck from the time they arrive until the last box is in, plus a set amount of travel time.
Our moving cost estimator uses these planning figures for full-service movers, with one hour of travel time added:
| Home | Crew and time | Planning range |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | 2 movers, 2 to 4 hours | $330 – $900 |
| 1 bedroom | 2 movers, 3 to 5 hours | $440 – $1,080 |
| 2 bedrooms | 3 movers, 4 to 7 hours | $750 – $1,920 |
| 3 bedrooms | 3 movers, 6 to 9 hours | $1,050 – $2,400 |
| 4 or more bedrooms | 4 movers, 8 to 12 hours | $1,710 – $3,900 |
Long-distance moves: weight and miles
Full-service movers price a longer move mainly on the weight of your goods and how far they travel. For a two-bedroom home, about 5,000 lb, going 1,000 miles, the estimator gives $3,250 to $5,250.
The same move with a one-way rental truck comes out at $1,350 to $2,350 before your own time and effort, and with two moving containers at $2,600 to $4,800.
Binding and non-binding estimates
A binding estimate fixes the price for the items and services listed on it. A non-binding estimate is the mover's best guess, and the final charge follows the actual weight, so it can end up higher or lower. Ask which one you are being given, and get it in writing after the mover has seen what you are moving, in person or by video.
What changes the price
- The date. Summer, weekends and the end of the month are the busiest times.
- Access. Stairs, a long walk from the door to the truck, or a street too narrow for a large truck add time or fees.
- Packing. Having the movers pack for you is a separate service.
- Heavy or awkward items. Pianos, safes and the like are usually priced separately.
- Coverage for your goods. On a move between states, basic coverage is included at 60 cents per pound per item, which is very little for anything light and valuable. Full value protection costs extra.
Before you pay a deposit
A mover carrying household goods between states must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and have a USDOT number. Look the number up on FMCSA's website, compare at least two written estimates, and be wary of a mover who asks for a large deposit or cash up front.