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.
Can you move furniture by yourself?
You might be able to move smaller items like nightstands, small desks, chairs and small tables by yourself. However, it’s best to get a professional mover near you to move larger items such as couches, dressers, armoires and televisions.
If you do decide to move furniture by yourself, carefully lift and lower items and take your time.
Is it cheaper to move your stuff or buy new stuff?
It often makes more financial sense to buy new stuff when you have the chance to sell furniture to offset the cost. The cost of moving your current furniture can sometimes be more than buying new things, particularly if the furniture is large or cumbersome to move. You can sell furniture online, or make a furniture donation and deduct it from your taxes (if it qualifies as a charitable contribution). Some places near you may even offer free furniture pickup when you choose to donate.
If you have valuable furniture that would be costly to replace, however, it may be cheaper to move them. To find out which option is best for you, contact professional movers in your area to receive quotes and estimates.
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.