Your moving options
Full-service movers
- They pack, load, drive and unload
- Highest cost, least effort
- Best for busy schedules or long moves
Labor-only movers
- You rent the truck; they load/unload
- Hourly, often 2-hour minimum
- Great middle ground for local moves
Moving containers
- A pod is dropped off; you pack it
- Flexible timing and storage
- Good for long distance on a budget
Doing it yourself? Read 10 steps for a successful DIY move and compare moving truck rentals.
What movers cost
Local moves (generally under 50 miles) are usually billed by the hour for a crew and truck — commonly $100–$200 per hour for two or three movers, plus a travel fee. Long-distance moves are priced mainly by weight (or volume) and distance, with extra charges for stairs, long carries, bulky items, packing and storage.
| Home size | Local (typical) | ~1,000 miles (typical) |
|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $400–$900 | $2,000–$4,000 |
| 2 bedrooms | $800–$1,500 | $3,500–$6,500 |
| 3 bedrooms | $1,200–$2,400 | $5,000–$9,000 |
Planning ranges only. Use the estimator below for your own numbers, then get at least three written quotes.
Binding vs. non-binding estimates
- Binding estimate: the price is fixed for the items listed. Add items and the price changes.
- Binding not-to-exceed: you pay the lower of the estimate or the actual weight — the renter-friendliest option.
- Non-binding estimate: the final bill depends on actual weight/time. For interstate moves, federal rules generally limit what the mover can demand at delivery to the estimate plus 10%, with the rest billed later.
Insist on an in-home or live video survey. A quote given over the phone without seeing your stuff is the number-one source of moving-day surprises.
How to check a moving company
- Interstate movers must have a USDOT number — look it up on the FMCSA's site and check their complaint history.
- Intrastate movers may need a state license. In Texas, household-goods movers register with TxDMV.
- Read recent reviews on more than one platform, looking for patterns (late arrivals, damage claims, price hikes).
- Confirm the company — not a broker — will do the move, or ask who the carrier is.
- Get everything in writing: estimate, inventory, pickup/delivery windows and valuation coverage.
Moving scam red flags
- A large cash deposit before the move
- A quote far below everyone else's
- No physical address, license or USDOT number
- The truck shows up unmarked or with a rental logo
- They ask you to sign blank or incomplete paperwork
Protecting your belongings
By default, interstate movers' liability is often limited to about 60 cents per pound per item (released value) — a 10 lb laptop would be "worth" $6. Full-value protection costs extra. Check whether your renters insurance covers belongings in transit, and keep valuables, documents and medications with you.
Tips to lower the bill
- Move mid-month and mid-week; avoid the end of the month and summer weekends when you can.
- Declutter first — every box you sell or donate is one you don't pay to move.
- Pack yourself (see our packing calculator) and have everything ready when the crew arrives.
- Reserve elevator time and close-in parking so the crew isn't paid to walk.
Free tool: Moving Cost Calculator
Pick your home size, distance and extras to see an estimated range — and how DIY, movers and containers compare for your move.
Frequently asked questions
How far in advance should I book movers?
Four to eight weeks ahead for most moves, and earlier for summer or end-of-month dates. Long-distance moves benefit from even more lead time.
How much should I tip movers?
A common guideline is $20–$40 per mover for a half-day local move and $40–$60+ each for a full day or a difficult move, plus cold drinks. Tipping is optional and should reflect the service.
What's the difference between a moving broker and a carrier?
A carrier owns the trucks and employs the crew. A broker sells your move to a carrier. Brokers are legal but you should know who will actually show up and who is liable for damage.
Do movers move plants, paint or propane?
Most won't. Hazardous items (paint, propane, fuel, cleaning chemicals) and often live plants are excluded. Ask for the mover's non-allowable list.
