How To Find Cheap Movers

You know what they say—“Moving is one of the most stressful things you’ll ever do, right after planning a wedding or trying to assemble Ikea furniture without a manual.”

But here’s the thing: while those other things are impossible to handle without a meltdown, moving doesn’t have to cost you a fortune. Finding cheap movers doesn’t have to be a nightmare, especially when you know what you’re doing.

According to the American Moving and Storage Association, the average cost of a local move in the U.S. hovers around $1,250.

And if you're looking at a long-distance move, that number can shoot up to $4,890 or more. 

Yeah, that's a lot of dough. But don’t panic.

You can still find affordable moving companies that won’t drain your wallet.

It doesn’t matter if you are moving down the street or to the other side of the country; there are budget-friendly movers out there waiting for you.

The trick is knowing where to look and how to make your dollars stretch further.

You’re probably thinking, "But how do I find these movers?" 

Well, let’s discuss everything about finding cheap moving services near me, getting those cheap moving quotes, and making sure your stuff gets to its new home in one piece.

Why Do You Need Cheap Movers?

We all know moving is expensive. Like, REALLY expensive.

The average cost of a local move in the U.S. can cost you around $1,250 (and that’s if you're lucky).

And if you're planning a long-distance move? You’re looking at $4,890 on average!

If you don't want to be broke by the time you move in, you need to find a way to keep costs low.

But don’t stress! You can totally find affordable moving companies that’ll do the job without draining your bank account. You just need to know where to look and how to negotiate.

Moving on a budget? Save big on your next move with our free, no-obligation moving quote. Start saving today!

Step 1: Understand Your Options

First, you need to know what kind of moving services are available before you can figure out which one will give you the best value for your money.

It’s not just about picking the cheapest option—it’s about finding the right balance of price and quality.

Full-Service Movers

These are the movers who will literally do everything for you: pack, load, transport, unload—everything. But that convenience comes with a price tag.

Full-service movers tend to be on the pricier side, so if you’re trying to move on a budget, this might not be your best bet.

But if you want to relax and let someone else handle the mess, go for it. Just make sure you're okay with the higher price.

DIY Movers

This is where it gets interesting. If you’re willing to roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty, hiring budget-friendly movers (or DIY movers) could save you a ton.

These movers allow you to pack your stuff, but they'll also handle the heavy lifting, such as loading and unloading.

It's a great middle-ground for people who want to save some money but don’t want to do all the work themselves.

Truck Rentals

If you're a DIY champ and just want to save every penny, renting a moving truck is your move.

You get the truck, you load it, and you drive it. Just make sure you’re ready for the hard work.

Also, don’t forget that truck rentals come with additional costs—gas, mileage, insurance, and so on.

But if you’re moving with just a few boxes, it’s totally doable and cheap local movers will cost a lot less this way.

Moving Labor Only

This one’s for the serious savers. Some companies offer moving labor-only services, where they’ll send a couple of strong people to help load or unload your stuff.

You’ll need to rent the truck yourself, but if you’re okay with some sweat equity, it’s a low-cost moving company option that can save you a lot.

Step 2: Get Multiple Quotes

If you’re serious about finding cheap moving services near me, you have to get multiple quotes.

And don’t just pick the first quote that pops up. Take your time, compare a few companies, and really weigh out your options.

Most companies will offer free quotes based on the details of your move—the distance, size, and the amount of stuff you have.

Some may give you an instant quote online, while others might need a phone call to discuss the details. Either way, get at least three quotes and compare them like you're shopping for a new TV.

Find the best affordable moving companies in your area with just a few clicks! Get matched with reliable movers who won’t break your bank.

Step 3: Look for Discounts and Special Offers

Who doesn’t love a good deal?

Here’s a pro tip: many companies offer discounts and special offers throughout the year, especially during the off-season (usually fall and winter).

You can also ask if they have any discounted moving services or referral discounts.

Pro Tip: Moving on a weekday rather than the weekend can also save you a few bucks since most people tend to move during the weekend rush.

Who doesn’t love a deal? Check out exclusive discounts on moving services and save big on your next move!Hurry, these offers won’t last long. Get your discounted moving services.

Step 4: Beware of Hidden Fees

So, you've found a quote that seems too good to be true. It’s tempting to just sign on the dotted line, but hold up.

There may be hidden fees lurking in the fine print. Some movers will charge you extra for things like:

•  Fuel charges
•  Stair fees (if your building doesn't have an elevator)
•  Long carry fees (when your stuff has to travel a long distance from the truck to your door)

Always ask for a breakdown of the costs and be clear on what's included in the quote.

You don’t want to end up with a bill that’s way higher than you expected.

Step 5: Consider the Type of Move

It’s also worth considering the kind of move you’re doing.

Moving locally is typically much cheaper than moving long distances.

Local moves are usually charged by the hour, while long-distance moves are priced based on the weight of your stuff and the distance traveled.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

•  Local Move: Typically less than 100 miles, charged by the hour.
•  Long-Distance Move: Over 100 miles, typically based on weight.

If you’re planning a long-distance move, you'll need to budget a little more than you would for a local one.

Don't stress—we've got your back! Read our Moving Guide for expert tips on moving on a budget without compromising on quality.

 Step 6: Read Reviews and Check Reputation

Before booking with any of the best affordable moving companies, take a few minutes to read online reviews.

Check Google, My Good Movers and other review sites.

Look for red flags like hidden fees, damaged items, or poor customer service.

Low prices don't mean much if you end up with broken furniture or lost boxes.

When you read reviews, pay attention to:

•  The company’s overall rating
•  The kind of reviews they get for reliability and professionalism
•  Whether or not they have insurance (you want to make sure your stuff is protected)

Step 7: Don’t Forget the Packing

You’re already trying to save cash, so why not save even more by packing your own stuff?

Packing up your boxes and wrapping fragile items like a pro is a great way to lower your moving costs.

Movers will charge you extra for packing materials and labor, so if you’re willing to do it yourself, you’ll keep your costs down.

If you do need moving supplies, visit local stores for free boxes. You can also use stuff you already have—blankets, towels, old clothes—anything to keep your stuff safe without shelling out for bubble wrap.

Recommended Resources

• How to Find a Reputable Moving Company

• How to Manage the Stress of Moving

• What is a Moving Company Contract?

• How to Move a Couch by Yourself

• How to Compare Moving Companies