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Alex is the founder of 9Kilo Moving, which he started to help people easily find and choose the right moving company to make their move as stress-free and seamless as possible. He has spent over 20 years working in the moving industry, so he knows every aspect of the business and uses his knowledge to write about the industry and give moving advice. More on about us page

Use Our Moving Cost Estimator for Your Upcoming Relocation 

Our moving cost calculator algorithm results from years of research and industry experience.

This tool considers various factors to provide an accurate and reliable estimate of your move's cost. With our realistic moving estimates, you can easily and effectively budget for your move.

Plus, using our tool, you can receive up to four free quotes from professional moving companies, helping you find the best deal and the right service for your needs. Don't leave your move to chance–try our moving cost calculator today and take the first step toward a stress-free relocation.

How Much Do Movers Cost in 2024?

Moving to a new home or city can be an exhilarating adventure, but let's be honest–it can also be an overwhelming and expensive process. With so many factors to consider, it's no wonder that figuring out the costs involved can quickly become a headache. But don't worry; we're here to help!! 

This page will provide you with all the information you need to calculate the cost of your move, including all the factors to consider when budgeting and what to look for when hiring professional movers. We know every move is unique, so we've created this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process confidently.

Whether you're planning a local move or a cross-country adventure, our moving calculator and insider tips will help you stay on top of your budget and avoid surprises. So, let's get started on your stress-free moving journey!

Use Our Moving Price Table to Budget Your Move

The cost of moving can vary greatly depending on various factors, including the distance of the move, the size and weight of items being moved, and the specific services required. Generally, moving costs can be split into two main categories: local moves and long-distance moves.  

➡️ Local moves: A local move is typically 50 miles or less and tends to be less expensive than long-distance moves. The approximate cost of local movers can range from $325-$3,000. Again, it majorly depends on the size of the move. 

➡️ Long-distance moves: A long-distance move is typically 250+ miles. The average cost for a long-distance move can range from $1850 to more than $12,500, depending on how many miles you're moving and the size of your move. Long-distance moves cost more because full-service movers have to factor in fuel, toll, and labor costs.

To help give you a general idea of what to expect, below is a table with a rough overview of moving costs based on home size and distance:

Distance 1 Bedroom2 – 3 Bedrooms4 – 5 Bedrooms
50 miles or less$325 – $625$725 – $1,250$1,400 – $3,000
250 miles$1850 – $3500$2500 – $5500$3500 – $7000
1,000 – 2,500 miles$2500 – $5500$3500 – $7000$5,400 – $12,000
More than 2,500 miles$3500 – $7000$5,400 – $12,000+ $12500

Remember that these are just estimated costs, and the actual cost of your move will depend on many factors specific to your situation. 

If you want a more accurate estimate, we recommend using our moving cost calculator to get a better idea of the cost of your move based on your specific needs and circumstances.

Factors Affecting Moving Costs

To help you better understand the factors that can impact the cost of your move, let's take a closer look at each of these factors in more detail.

1. Weight 

In general, moving companies calculate their prices based on the weight of the items being moved and the distance of the move. The heavier the items, the more fuel and labor will be required to transport them, and therefore the more expensive the move will be. 

2. Distance

One of the main factors that affect the cost of a move is distance, as the further the distance, the more time and resources it takes to transport your belongings. 

This can include additional fuel costs, more time spent on the road, and potentially, additional labor costs if more workers are needed to load and unload the truck. Another factor is the type and size of the moving truck, as long-distance moves typically require larger trucks or multiple trucks, which can increase the cost. 

In addition, long-distance moves often require more planning and coordination, leading to higher administrative and logistical costs for moving companies. 

See also: For an out-of-state move, you can look into this detailed comparison of the best moving companies in the United States.

3. Hire a pro or do it yourself

While hiring a professional mover can be more expensive than a DIY move, it can also offer a range of benefits that makes it worth the extra cost. Professional movers can save you time and effort by handling your belongings' packing, loading, and unloading, ensuring your move is completed efficiently and on schedule. 

While the cost of hiring a professional moving company is primarily based on the hourly wages paid to workers, the peace of mind and convenience that come with a professional move can be well worth the investment. 

A DIY move can be financially advantageous if you have available time and help. Just be sure to carefully consider the amount of work and planning involved, and the potential for unexpected expenses and damage to your belongings. Also, moving your stuff will require you to hire a rental truck and pay for the fuel. 

4. Location

The cost of your move can be affected by various factors, including your starting and ending locations. Beyond the basic cost of hiring movers or renting a moving truck, you may also need to consider additional expenses such as fuel, parking, tolls, and other transportation costs.

 In some cases, navigating difficult neighborhoods, streets, or driveways can add extra time to your move, ultimately driving up costs. As we all know, time is money, particularly in the context of a move. 

Additionally, suppose your move involves any periods during which your items will be in storage, such as in the case of multiple closings in different markets. In such a situation, you may also need to consider renting a storage unit.

5. Additional moving services

The cost to move will be affected by any add-on services you choose to include. Some full-service movers offer services including:

🚚 Packing services 
🚚 Disassembling and reassembling furniture 
🚚 Moving specialty items like pianos

If you want your movers to pack up your belongings, remember that a moving company will charge extra for moving supplies like cardboard boxes, plastic bins, bubble wrap, packing paper, stretch wrap, felt pads, and mattress bags.

6. Yes, you need insurance

When it comes to protecting your belongings during a move, you have a few insurance options. Basic release value protection is often included with moving services, but it may only provide minimal coverage in the event of damage or loss. This basic coverage typically offers 60 cents per pound of insured cargo. While this can help somewhat protect your possessions' value, it may leave you with a coverage gap and potential financial losses. 

For greater peace of mind, it's worth considering a full-value protection insurance policy, which covers everything from damage caused by Mother Nature to damage caused by the moving company's negligence. While a full-value protection policy may increase moving costs, it's worth the investment, especially for moves involving valuable or fragile items. 

Additional Costs and Fees That Impact Moving Costs

In addition to the factors we've already discussed, several other factors can impact long-distance relocation costs, including: 

💸 Timing: Moves during peak season or high-demand times, such as summer and weekends, typically incur higher costs than off-peak periods when demand is lower.

💸 Additional services: A full-service national moving company can provide customers with extra services such as packing, storage, and debris removal, which are usually not included in the initial quote. Be sure to ask about any additional services and the related costs beforehand.

💸 Special items: Some items, like pianos or bulky furniture, may require extra care and special packaging, resulting in additional fees.

💸 Stair carry fee: For apartment moves, stair carry fees may apply if there is a long walk to and from the elevator, or when items need to be moved up multiple flights of stairs.

💸 Long carry fee: If the movers need to carry items a significant distance from the truck to your front door (or vice versa), an additional fee may apply based on the actual distance involved. 

Moving Estimates from the Moving Company’s Perspective

When getting an accurate estimate for your move, comparing quotes from multiple moving companies is important. The best movers will often offer free in-home estimates, allowing you to clearly understand what you can expect to pay for your move. 

Alternatively, you can use our convenient online moving estimate calculator to get a rough idea of the cost of your move. This can help you to compare the numbers you've generated with any moving estimates you’ve received from professional moving companies.

There are three main types of moving estimates used by most moving companies, which we'll explore in more detail below.

Types of moving estimates

Binding estimate

A binding estimate is a moving estimate where you pay the moving company the exact amount initially quoted, even if the actual cost of the move is higher. 

A binding estimate locks you into a fixed price and protects you from unexpected expenses. For example, if a mover estimates that your move will cost $3,000, that is the amount you will be legally liable to pay once the move is completed, even if the actual cost is higher.

Non-binding estimate

A non-binding estimate is a moving estimate where the final cost of the move may be higher than the original estimate. With a non-binding estimate, a moving company can legally charge up to 10% more than the original estimate. 

If the final cost of the move ends up being higher, most moving contracts rely on legal language clauses that require customers to pay the additional expenses within 30 days of completing the move. 

Not-to-exceed estimate

A not-to-exceed estimate is a type of moving estimate where a full-service mover guarantees that the final cost of the move will not exceed the quoted price, even if the actual cost of the move ends up being higher than the estimate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I save money when moving? 

Here are some money-saving tips to lower the cost of your long-distance move: 

💵 Get rid of your excess belongings to reduce moving weight 
💵 Do it yourself and rent a moving truck
💵 Enlist friends and family to help
💵 Find free packing supplies
💵 Look into a moving company that offers moving discounts
💵 Pack your belongings yourself
💵 Choose a less expensive moving date in the off-season. 
💵 Obtain quotes from multiple full-service movers
💵 Find out if your moving expenses are tax-deductible
💵 Consider renting a portable moving container

How do I estimate moving costs?

Moving cost calculators are a great way to estimate your move's cost. With just a few clicks, you can quickly and easily estimate how much your move will cost so that you can plan ahead and avoid surprises. Try our Moving Cost Calculator today for a free moving estimate. 

What should I consider before hiring a moving company?

Top-notch moving services will have the following qualities: 

🚚 Experience: Look for a moving company with a proven track record of success. 

🚚 Licensing and insurance: A good moving company should have all the necessary licenses and insurance to operate legally and protect your belongings in case of damage or loss. Visit the website created by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to ensure any mover you are considering exceeds federal certification standards.

🚚 Transparency: The company should be up front about its services, fees, and policies. They should be willing to provide a written estimate and answer any questions you may have.

🚚 Customized services: A good moving company should offer customized services to meet your needs. They should be able to handle different types of moves—such as residential, commercial, and long-distance—and provide additional services such as packing, storage, and furniture assembly.

🚚 Customer service: High-quality moving companies offer excellent customer service. They should be responsive, communicative, and available to address any concerns you may have throughout the moving process.

🚚 Online reviews and ratings: It's important to conduct thorough research to ensure you're hiring a reputable and reliable company. One way to do this is to check customer review sites such as Yelp and Google to see what previous customers have to say about their experiences. Additionally, you can visit the moving company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) page and review their rating and any customer feedback.

Why is moving so expensive?

No matter how you move, it's going to be expensive. The reason: moving is a time-consuming, labor-intensive process. The total average move cost includes labor, fuel, materials, and equipment.

In addition, long-distance moving companies charge customers based on the weight of their items. So, the more stuff you have, the more expensive the move will be.

How much do movers cost for a local move?

The average estimated cost of a local move is $1,450, based on a two to three-bedroom move. Local moving companies typically charge by the hour. These rates will fluctuate based on the time of year and demand.

How much do movers cost for a long-distance move?

On average, long-distance movers charge around $6,000 for a three-bedroom move covering a distance of 1,000-2,000 miles. 

Unlike a local move, the price of a long-distance move is largely based on the weight. Other cost factors include the cost of gas, distance traveled, labor costs, insurance, and additional services.

Here Are the Best Long-Distance Movers in the Area

VanLines Inc.

4.9
Best Overall Value
Intro

VanLines Inc.

Intro

Looking to move soon? Look no further than Van Lines Inc.! Van Lines Inc. is a nationwide moving broker based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Established in 2001 by owner Efraim Balila who has over 20 years of experience in the industry, they specialize in a wide range of moves, from residential to commercial and industrial equipment relocations.

No matter what you need moving, Van Lines Inc. has the people and equipment to get you there. They're about more than just getting your belongings from point A to point B. 

They go the extra mile to ensure your move is stress-free by providing a personal moving coordinator for each client, ensuring open communication. And with proper licensing and insurance, you can trust that your belongings are in good hands.

But what if you have fragile or high-value items that need extra care and protection? Van Lines Inc. offers exceptional white-glove moving services by highly trained professionals who have been thoroughly vetted. Yes, these services come at a premium price, but the extra care and protection they provide are well worth it.

Despite facilitating over 200 moves a week, Van Lines Inc. doesn't treat you like just another number. They take pride in providing personalized attention and care to each customer. So, whether you're moving across the state or the country, trust Van Lines Inc. and let them take care of the rest.

Services

  • ➡️ Long distance moving
  • ➡️ Packing and unpacking services
  • ➡️ Specialized moving
  • ➡️ Vehicle shipping
  • ➡️ Moving insurance
  • ➡️ Short and long-term storage
  • ➡️ Moving supplies
  • ➡️ Corporate relocation services

Pros

  • Free quotes
  • Holds its partner carriers to a high standard
  • Transparent about pricing
  • 24/7 customer support chat
  • Nationwide availability
  • Experience in moving high-value items
  • Highly trained movers
  • Moving supplies delivered to your door

Cons

  • Third-party movers used, so quality can vary
  • Deposit required
  • No ball-park estimates
  • Unaccredited with the BBB

Why We Recommend Van Lines Inc.

➡️ Great support during a stressful move

One of the reasons we recommend Van Lines Inc. is because they provide a lot of support for customers during what can be a stressful move.

From the start, a dedicated moving assistant supports you through the initial consultation to unpacking the last box. They’ll tell you what to expect throughout the process, so you’re never caught off guard.

Van Lines Inc. works hard to prevent the horror stories that are too common in the moving industry. Their team of experts serves as the go-between between you and the moving company, ensuring that your needs and expectations are always met. Customers are constantly kept informed and up to date on the progress of their move.

After your move is complete, Van Lines Inc. will continue to communicate with you to ensure that everything went smoothly and that you’re completely satisfied with the service provided.

➡️ A la carte moving packages

Van Lines Inc. offers a range of flexible moving packages that can be customized to handle as much or as little as you need. Whether you’re a senior citizen with priceless china that need to be carefully crated or a business that needs to move across the country, Van Lines Inc. has the resources to help you.

Their consultants will take the time to listen to your concerns and preferences and will work with you to build a personalized moving plan that meets your needs – ranging from a full-service moving experience to handling some aspects of the move yourself.

This customized service means you can have peace of mind knowing you’re working with a company that genuinely cares about your moving experience.

➡️ Nationwide availability

From New York to California, Florida to Alaska, and everywhere in between, Van Lines Inc. can handle moves of any distance.

Their extensive network of resources and partners ensures they can provide seamless and efficient moving services to customers nationwide.

With Van Lines Inc., you can have peace of mind knowing that you’re working with a company that truly understands the complexities of long-distance moving and has the resources to get you there, wherever “there” may be.

🏆 Customer opinion

“We were able to book them at the last minute to move from Boston to Miami when another moving company did not show up. The customer service was perfect. They arrived on time and gave me a call when they were heading over so I knew to be ready. They packed up my goods very carefully, disassembled my furniture quickly without breaking anything, and took safe care. They arrived at the new location 7 days after pickup and were able to unload my goods extremely fast as well. They put all the boxes where I asked them to, and they put my furniture back together extremely fast and arranged my room the way I wanted. I would recommend them to anyone who is moving.”

Yaron Baker

Midland Van Lines

4.9
Highest Quality Service
Intro

Midland Van Lines

Intro

Midland Van Lines is a family-owned and operated business, and moving long distances is their specialty. Every year they help thousands of families move across the U.S.

Experience and going the extra mile set them apart from other national moving services; Midland Van Lines boasts a highly skilled and knowledgeable team with 15+ years of experience in interstate moving.

Midland Van Lines is ideal if you want to spend a little more to enjoy a seamless moving experience. They offer comprehensive moving services to fit your unique needs. Don’t worry if you don’t have an unlimited budget. If you book early with Midlands, you can receive up to 40% off the price of your move.

They are also well known for their white-glove professional moving services, great customer service, and innovative use of technology; the company has garnered an excellent reputation as one of the best in the business.

Services

  • ➡️ Long-distance moving
  • ➡️ Packing service
  • ➡️ Specialized moving
  • ➡️ Moving insurance
  • ➡️ Commercial moves
  • ➡️ Nationwide availability

Pros

  • Free Date Changes
  • Providing the Best Combination of Price and Service
  • Owns and Operates Their Own Fleet of Trucks & Semi-Trailers
  • Customer Service Support 7 Days Per Week
  • Experts in long-distance moves
  • Experts in moving high-value items

Cons

  • Must Request Quote to Learn About Pricing

Why we recommend Midland Van Lines

Customizable moving options

A one-size-fits-all approach may not work for everyone, as each individual or family has different requirements when it comes to moving. To go the extra mile for their customers, Midlands Van Lines provides personalized moving solutions.

A representative from Midlands Van Lines will create a customized plan to tailor their services to match your specific needs, including packing, storage, or additional services.

This level of personalization can make the transition to your new home smoother, as you can trust that everything is being taken care of in a way that fits your lifestyle and budget.

White-glove moving services

With Midlands Van Lines; you can expect nothing but the best from start to finish. Their team of highly trained and experienced professionals will handle every aspect of your move with white-glove care, ensuring that your belongings are transported safely and securely.

Midland Van Lines can also take on more unique or complex large homes or commercial space relocations. They are well equipped to transport heavy and valuable items like large furniture, antiques, and even priceless art.

It doesn’t stop there. They offer secure packaging and complete crating solutions for your high-value items. Also, Midland Van Lines is insured for up to $200,000 in the unlikely event of property loss or damage.

Full-service moving option

If you're looking for a genuinely luxurious moving experience, Midlands Van Lines provides a full-service moving package.

With this comprehensive package, you can expect a team of highly trained professionals to take care of everything, from packing your belongings to unloading them at your new home.
Midlands’s experienced movers will care extra for your high-value items if needed.

In addition, they offer concierge services such as unpacking and setting up your new home, and arranging for storage solutions for any items you may not want to bring with you.

With a full-service package, you can relax and let Midlands Van Lines take care of every detail, ensuring a seamless and stress-free relocation.

🏆 Customer opinion 

“I thought moving would be a disaster because I hired a moving company that I had no knowledge about. I expected the worst and just went on with it. But I did not know this moving company would impress me instead. They were amazing! All the people were professional, efficient and caring. They moved all the furniture very nicely and gently. They returned everything the way it was. Plus, their rate was very low and reasonable. I ended up with a great moving company! I highly recommend Midland van lines to all.” 
Philip R.

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4.9
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Cancellation Policy Free up to 72 Hrs Free Up to 7 Days
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Why You Should Use 9Kilo’s Moving Cost Calculator

Looking for an affordable and reliable moving company for your next move? Look no further than 9Kilo! With our extensive network of professional movers, we can help you find the right mover for your needs and budget. 

Whether you're moving locally or across the country, we're committed to providing you with the safety, convenience, and affordability you need for a stress-free move. 

Use our moving calculator or call (800) 960-4060 to get started and receive FREE moving quotes. Let us help you make your next move a success!