Plan Your Moving Budget with Confidence
Moving is one of life's most stressful events, and unexpected costs can make it even more challenging. Our Moving Cost Calculator helps you estimate all expenses—from labor and transportation to packing materials and storage—so you can budget accurately and avoid costly surprises. Whether you're moving across town or across the country, get a realistic cost breakdown tailored to your situation.
Average Moving Costs by Home Size (2026)
National averages for professional moving services:
| Home Size | Local Move (within 50 mi) | Long-Distance (500+ mi) | Packing Service |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio/1BR | $300-$800 | $1,500-$3,000 | +$200-$400 |
| 2 Bedroom | $800-$1,500 | $2,500-$5,000 | +$400-$700 |
| 3 Bedroom | $1,200-$2,500 | $4,000-$8,000 | +$700-$1,200 |
| 4+ Bedroom | $1,800-$4,000 | $6,000-$12,000 | +$1,200-$2,000 |
Peak vs Off-Peak Moving Costs
Moving companies charge significantly more during peak moving season due to high demand. Here's what to expect:
| Period | Demand Level | Price Premium | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| May-September | Peak | +20-40% | Families (school schedule) |
| End of Month | High | +15-30% | Lease transitions |
| Weekends | High | +10-20% | Working professionals |
| Oct-April | Off-Peak | Standard | Flexible schedules |
| Mid-Month Weekdays | Low | -10-20% | Maximum savings |
Hidden Moving Costs to Budget For
Don't let these common expenses catch you off guard:
DIY vs Professional Movers: Cost Comparison
Breaking down the true costs of each option for a 2-bedroom apartment moving 100 miles:
| Expense | DIY Move | Professional Move |
|---|---|---|
| Truck Rental | $200-$400 | Included |
| Fuel | $75-$150 | Included |
| Equipment (dollies, etc) | $50-$100 | Included |
| Packing Materials | $150 | $150 (or included) |
| Labor (you + friends) | Free (+ pizza/beer $50) | $800-$1,500 |
| Insurance | $30-$100 | $150-$350 |
| Time Investment | 2-3 days | 4-8 hours |
| **Total Estimate** | **$555-$950** | **$1,100-$2,000** |
When to Hire Professional Movers
Professional movers are worth the investment when:
Money-Saving Moving Strategies
Professional tips to reduce your moving costs:
Moving Cost Formula
Understanding how movers calculate costs helps you budget effectively. For general budgeting, see our budget calculator. For long-distance trip planning, check our trip cost calculator. If you're moving to buy a home, compare total costs using our rent vs buy calculator to see if homeownership makes financial sense in your new location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:How much should I budget for a move?
As a general rule, budget $800-$1,500 for a local move (under 50 miles) and $2,500-$8,000 for a long-distance move, depending on home size. Add 20-30% as a buffer for unexpected costs like extra packing materials, tips, or last-minute services. If your employer covers relocation, typical packages range from $5,000-$20,000.
Q:When is the cheapest time to hire movers?
The cheapest time is mid-week (Tuesday-Thursday) during off-peak months (October-April), especially mid-month. Avoid summer (May-September), weekends, and the last week of any month when demand peaks. Moving on a Wednesday in February could save you 30-40% compared to a Saturday in July.
Q:How much should I tip movers?
Standard tipping is 15-20% of the total cost, or $20-$40 per mover for full-day work. For a $1,000 move with 3 movers, you'd tip $150-$200 total ($50-$65 per person). Tip more (up to 25%) for exceptional service, difficult conditions (many stairs, bad weather), or if movers go above and beyond. Always tip in cash directly to each mover.
Q:Is moving insurance worth it?
Yes, especially for long-distance moves or if you have valuable items. Basic coverage (60 cents per pound) is usually included but inadequate—a 50-lb TV only gets you $30 if damaged. Full-value protection costs $150-$350 for a typical move but covers full replacement value. If your belongings are worth more than $10,000, full coverage is strongly recommended.
Q:How do I avoid moving scams?
Red flags include: unusually low estimates (especially online quotes without inspection), large deposits required upfront, no physical address or DOT number, no written contract, and companies without verifiable reviews. Always get in-home estimates from 3+ companies, verify their USDOT number at fmcsa.dot.gov, read contracts carefully, and never pay more than 25% upfront.
Q:Should I move myself or hire professionals?
DIY makes sense for local moves under 50 miles with a 1-2 bedroom apartment and no heavy items. Professional movers are worth it for: moves over 100 miles, 3+ bedroom homes, homes with stairs, if you have pianos or valuable furniture, or if your time is limited. The cost difference is typically $500-$1,000, but professionals save you 2-3 days of manual labor and reduce injury risk.