What do labor-only movers provide as compared to full-service moving companies?
Full-service moving companies supply a moving truck and handle your entire move from start to finish. Labor-only movers just provide the labor to load (and unload) your items, typically around 2 people, without providing a truck - nor driving a vehicle that you provide.
Full-service rates tend to be higher than labor-only rates to account for the extra cost associated with providing and driving the truck.
How much do movers cost?
The national average cost of local movers ranges from around $108 to $125 per hour,* according to Thumbtack data. For long-distance moves, the national average cost ranges from around $651 to $5,491* — but costs can be much higher depending on how much you have and how far you’re moving.
Several factors might impact the cost of movers near you, including:
Distance: While a local mover typically considers the hours and laborers needed, relocating to another state or country will add fuel costs and additional fees like full-coverage insurance.
Effort required: Full-service moving companies that wrap, box and pack your items for you will likely charge an extra fee.
Volume and types of goods: Beyond inventory size, a lot of people don’t realize there can be additional fees for fragile or awkward furniture. Pianos and motorcycles, for example, require careful packing and moving, adding more to your final cost.
Accessibility: If movers need to hoist items up a few floors, carefully pivot around winding staircases or lug items far distance or through narrow spaces, they may charge more.
Insurance: Consider whether you need partial or complete coverage for your items, as this typically adds an additional fee.
You might be able to save money on your move with these tips:
Plan well. Move during off-peak seasons or mid-month/mid-week.
Clear out excess. In the months before your moving day, carefully reduce your home items by selling or donating them.
DIY as much as possible. Collecting boxes at retail stores or sourcing boxes from others can save you money.
Set a schedule. Book movers early, purge items and determine what can go into your car. Develop a schedule for your weekends and free moments leading up to the big day.
Compare quotes. Gather estimates and compare reviews for movers in your area.
*Data on file at Thumbtack. For a personalized cost estimate, request a quote from a professional.
What is the cheapest way to move?
Here are some ways you can lower the cost of your upcoming move:
DIY your move. You can save money moving if you rent your own moving truck or moving pods. However, be sure to weigh the pros and cons of moving all of your belongings and valuables by yourself. Factor in the cost of a moving truck (including fuel), the cost of moving equipment, the labor involved, and the time it will take to complete your move by yourself.
Hire labor-only movers. It may be cheaper to DIY your move fully, but if you need some help, you can also rent a truck or moving pod and hire labor-only. Labor-only rates can tend to be lower than full-service rates: discuss with your pro to determine what is best for you.
Schedule your move during the off-season. Avoid moving in May, June, July, August or September, when moving costs are typically much higher.
How do I choose the best moving company for my move?
To find the best moving companies, research the top movers in your area and ask yourself a series of questions, such as:
Does the company show up on time or are they late?
Does the moving company charge by the hour or is it a flat rate?
What are people saying about their movers?
Does the moving company offer insurance?
Does the company provide specific moving services, like packing or storage?
How does the moving company charge for long-distance moves?
On Thumbtack, you can easily spot the best moving companies by looking for the blue Top Pro badge. You can find more tips on how to hire the best movers with Thumbtack’s Smart Hiring Guide.
How far in advance should I hire movers?
Book movers at least two months in advance for a local move and at least four months in advance for a cross-country move. If you’re moving during the off-season, it’s best to book movers about four to eight weeks in advance. Factor in an extra two to three weeks if you have antiques or valuables that are difficult to transport.
May through September is considered peak moving season, according to the American Moving & Storage Association. If you’re moving during this time, hire movers as far in advance as possible.
What is considered a local move vs. a long-distance move?
Local moves are among the most common moves. Unlike a long-distance move, a local move is typically less than 50 miles and does not cross state lines. Generally, a local move only takes one day, and movers tend to charge by the hour.
The definition of a long-distance move may vary depending on the moving company. Generally, a long-distance considered to be any move of 400 miles or more. However, some say a long-distance move is over 50-100 miles.
Local Move
A move under 50 miles
Long-Distance Move
A move over 50-100 miles or over 400 miles; may also be called an “interstate move” or “out-of-state move”
Out-of-State Move
A move that crosses state lines; may also be called an “interstate move” or “long-distance move”
Interstate Move
A move that crosses state lines; may also be called an “out-of-state move” or “long-distance move”
Intrastate Move
A move that begins and ends in the same state, typically beyond 50 miles
Interstate moves require additional legal preparation and will incur additional costs for distance, the amount and weight of your items, the preparation required and various other factors. Moving companies tend to do an initial weighing of the truck, which you should be present for.
A move that crosses state lines is considered an interstate move or an out-of-state move. Contrast this with an intrastate move, which begins and ends in the same state, but is typically above 50 miles.
To determine whether your move is local or long-distance, contact the best movers in your area.
What do full-service moving companies provide?
Full-service moving companies can help take the stress out of moving by supplying a moving truck and handling your entire move from start to finish. These professional movers can also provide packing services, materials and supplies. Full-service movers also load your belongings into the truck, drive it to your new home, unload the truck and (in some cases) offer to help you unpack your belongings. If you're interested in hiring full-service movers, compare the top-rated movers near you and ask for estimates.