How Much Does It Cost to Move?

The average moving cost can range anywhere from $360 to over $13,000, based on our latest 2025 estimates. We know that's a big range, but your final price depends on a few things. The biggest factor is whether you’re handling the move yourself or hiring professionals.

• Professional movers: A local move can cost between $435 and $3,150. Long-distance moves typically start at around $999 and can exceed $13,000, depending on the distance and services required.
• Moving containers: Prices range from $350 to $750 for local moves and from $990 to $4,700 for long-distance moves.
• Rental trucks: If you go for a moving truck, local rentals typically range from $29 to $450, but costs vary based on company and mileage.

To get an accurate moving estimate, make sure you follow these steps:

• Use our moving cost calculator to get a quick estimate based on your move details.
• Compare moving quotes from different companies to find the best deal.
• Be clear about your needs — do you need packing, storage, or other extra services?
• Don’t forget about additional moving costs like tolls, supplies, tips, or special requests.

Below, you’ll find sample prices for both local and long-distance moves based on home size and distance.

What is the Average Cost for Local Moves

Full-service local movers usually charge between $60 and $110 per hour, depending on the crew size and the type of move.

Average Moving Cost by State

What are the Average Long-Distance Moving Costs

The average cost of long-distance moving depends on the size of your home and the distance you're moving.

What is the Average Cost of DIY Moves

The cost of a DIY move depends on several factors: whether you rent a moving container or a moving truck, the volume of items being moved, and the distance being traveled.

Here’s a quick look at what to expect:

• Moving container cost: For short-distance moves (within 50 miles), expect to pay between $350 and $750 for a single container. For longer or interstate moves, prices can range from $950 to $4,800 or more.
• Moving truck rental cost: Local moving truck rentals usually cost between $35 and $550, depending on the truck size and how long you need it. Some companies, like Budget, charge a daily rate starting at $22 to $65, plus a per-mile fee.

What are the Average City-to-City Moving Cost Estimates

Moving between cities? Your moving costs can vary depending on whether you rent a moving truck, use a moving container, or hire full-service movers. Below are typical price ranges for popular routes across the U.S.

Short-Distance Moves

Medium-Distance Moves

Long-Distance Moves

How Are Moving Costs Calculated?

Our free moving cost calculator works the same way professional movers estimate prices. It looks at key factors like:

• Move size: Bigger moves cost more because they need extra labor and a larger moving truck.
• Distance: The farther you’re moving, the higher your moving quotes will be.
• DIY vs. professional movers: Using a moving container or renting a truck is often cheaper, but you’ll handle packing and lifting yourself.
• Time of year: Summer is peak season, so expect higher prices. Moving between October and April is usually cheaper.
• Moving date: Prices often go up on weekends or at the start and end of each month.

Additional Moving Costs to Keep in Mind

Sometimes, your moving costs can go up depending on the details of your move. Here are some extra charges to watch for:

• Specialty items: Moving things like pianos, pool tables, motorcycles, or safes usually costs more.
• Packing supplies: If your movers provide bubble wrap, mattress covers, or packing paper, expect to incur extra charges, or they may sell these items directly to you.
• Additional services: You can pay extra for help with packing, unpacking, or furniture assembly.
• Access issues: If movers can't park close to your home or need to carry items upstairs or use a shuttle truck, extra fees may apply.
• Storage: Some movers offer short-term storage for free, but longer storage usually costs more.
• Extra stops: Stopping at more than one location during the move often comes with a fee.
• Expedited delivery: If you need your items delivered by a specific date, that service usually comes with an added cost.

Tips to Lower Your Moving Costs

There are plenty of ways to cut down your moving costs. Here are some simple ways to save:

• Declutter first: The less you move, the less you'll pay. Sell, donate, or discard anything you no longer need.
• Be flexible with dates: Moving during off-peak times (avoiding holidays, summer, or month-end) can help you obtain a more accurate moving estimate.
• Compare moving quotes: Always get at least three moving quotes — prices can vary more than you’d expect.
• Book early: Lock in your mover estimate 30 to 60 days in advance to avoid higher last-minute prices.
• Look for discounts: Some movers offer price matching or special deals — don’t be afraid to ask.
• Use free packing supplies: You can often find free boxes or materials if you plan ahead.
• Check your insurance: Some homeowner or renter policies may cover moving, which can save you from paying for extra coverage.

Should You Move Yourself or Hire Movers?

Deciding between a DIY move or hiring professional movers depends on your budget, time, and how much effort you’re willing to put in.

If you go with professional movers, they handle the packing, heavy lifting, transport, and unloading. It costs more, but it's ideal for long-distance or full-service moves, especially when convenience is a top priority.

On the other hand, a DIY move using a moving truck or moving container can save money, but you’ll be doing all the work — packing, loading, and figuring out the details yourself.

No matter which option you choose, planning is key. Use our free moving box calculator to figure out how many boxes and supplies you’ll need, based on your home size and packing style. It helps you avoid surprises and keeps your move organized.

How to Use Our Moving Cost Calculator

Planning your move is simple with our moving cost calculator. It gives you quick, no-hassle estimates without asking for personal details — no endless emails or sales calls.

Here’s how it works:

• Enter your locations: Type in the city or ZIP code you’re moving from and where you’re headed.
• Choose your move size: Let us know how big your move is — whether it’s just a few things or a full house.
• Select your moving date: Pick your expected moving day using the calendar tool.
• See your moving estimates: You’ll get instant price estimates for options like professional movers, moving containers, or rental trucks.
• Compare your options: Look over the costs, services, and available movers so y ou can choose what works best for your budget and needs.

How Our Moving Cost Calculator Helps You

By using the Moving Cost Calculator, you gain several key benefits:

Accurate Budgeting

With our calculator, you can obtain a precise estimate that reflects your unique move. This helps you avoid any surprises when the bill arrives and enables you to plan your finances more effectively.

Time Savings

Rather than waiting for multiple quotes from different moving companies, you can instantly get a clear picture of the costs involved in your move.

Informed Decision-Making

Are there services you don’t need? Can you cut down on the number of boxes or reduce the cost? With the detailed estimate provided by the calculator, you’ll have the information you need to make cost-saving choices.

Helps You Avoid Hidden Fees

By using our Moving Cost Calculator, you can understand what’s included in the estimate and avoid unexpected charges down the line.

Improved Stress Management

With our calculator, you can reduce anxiety and take charge of your moving expenses. Knowing what to expect in terms of cost can help you focus on other aspects of your move.