The best movers in Boston charge about $77 to $100 per hour for their services. However, this cost is subject to change at any time and will vary based on your specific needs. The price you pay may also depend on whether you’re moving within Boston, out of state or across the country. When choosing a moving company in Boston, gather a few quotes or estimates so you can make the best decision for your wallet.

Take the time to research and compare the best moving companies in Boston before you hire one. Read customer reviews and compare prices for storage services, long-distance movers and packers. Also discuss liability insurance with your mover, as Massachusetts makes movers responsible for only $0.60 per pound per article, according to the website for the state of Massachusetts. 

If you’re looking for free moving boxes in Boston, first try local stores around you. These may include liquor, department, grocery or bookstores, all of which use boxes regularly and might be willing to let you take some off their hands. Recycling centers often have stacks of folded boxes. For brand-new options, shop at hardware stores, where you can also find packing tape, moving blankets and other moving supplies. You can also try asking Boston moving companies if they offer or sell moving boxes as part of their services. 

To rent a moving truck in Boston, consider the options available at moving truck rental companies in the area. However, to save yourself some time and stress, you may want to consider hiring one of the best moving companies in Boston. Movers typically provide a truck when they’re helping you move. And in addition to driving it, they will load and unload your moving boxes and furniture. 

While a moving permit is not required in Boston, it does guarantee you two parking spaces from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. on a designated day. This means you won’t have to find parking for a large truck and can have close access to the move site. It also means you can avoid a hefty fine or parking ticket. The cost for a one-day moving truck parking permit is $110, according to the website for the city of Boston. 

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.

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. 

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.

How much you’ll pay to move across the country from Boston depends on several factors, including where you’re moving to, the size of your move and more. 

If you choose the right company for your cross-country move, however, the cost may be well worth it. If you’re moving from Boston to Chicago or moving from Boston to California, you may want to time your move so it happens when demand is low and fewer people are making moves. 

To find out how much it will cost you to move across the country, contact the top movers in Boston.

The general threshold of a long-distance move is 100 or 400 miles, depending on the moving company. Moving from Boston to New York City might be considered long-distance because it’s a distance of 200-plus miles.

Moving to the following cities and states are generally considered long-distance moves if you live in Boston:

• Moving to California 
• Moving to Atlanta 
• Moving to Seattle 
• Moving to Texas

If you’re planning an upcoming move -- whether it’s a cross-country, local or long-distance move -- reach out to the best movers in Boston for help.

The right company for your long-distance move will have skilled drivers and careful movers who know how to get the job done quickly and safely. The traffic in Boston, and even outside the city, is notorious for slowing down drivers. 

Make sure your movers are licensed by the Department of Public Utilities if you’re moving within Massachusetts. Look for a company with a solid safety record and drivers who are experienced in navigating the city and its surrounding towns.

As you’re comparing the best long-distance movers in Boston, take note of the movers’ reviews and ratings. You’ll want to hire movers who provide quality work, show up on time and are easy to work with. And get estimates from several companies who fit your criteria to ensure you pay a fair price.