How Much Does It Cost to Hire Professional Movers?
One of the first questions every person asks when planning a move is: "How much will this cost?" The answer depends on several factors including distance, the size of your home, the time of year, and whether you need full-service packing or just loading and unloading help.
Average Moving Costs in 2026
Local Moves (under 100 miles):
- Studio/1-bedroom: $300 – $800
- 2-bedroom: $600 – $1,500
- 3-bedroom: $1,000 – $2,500
- 4+ bedroom: $1,500 – $4,000+
Local movers typically charge $80 – $150 per hour for a crew of 2–3 movers. Most local moves take 3–8 hours depending on the amount of furniture and the distance between locations.
Long-Distance Moves (over 100 miles):
- Studio/1-bedroom: $1,500 – $3,000
- 2-bedroom: $3,000 – $5,500
- 3-bedroom: $4,500 – $8,000
- 4+ bedroom: $6,000 – $12,000+
Long-distance moves are calculated based on weight and distance rather than hourly rates. The average cost per pound ranges from $0.50 to $0.80 depending on the carrier.
What Affects Moving Costs?
- Distance — The farther you move, the more it costs. Cross-country moves (2,000+ miles) can cost significantly more than a 200-mile relocation.
- Home Size & Inventory — More rooms mean more furniture, boxes, and time. Specialty items like pianos, pool tables, and safes add extra charges.
- Time of Year — Summer (June–August) is peak moving season. Expect to pay 20–30% more than winter months.
- Stairs & Access — Walk-ups, narrow hallways, and long carries from the truck to your door can add $50–$150 per flight of stairs.
- Packing Services — Full packing adds $300–$1,000+ depending on the home size.
How to Know If You’re Getting a Good Deal
At Extra Help Moving, we give you a free AI-calculated moving quote before any mover contacts you. When professional movers reach out with their quotes, you can compare them to the AI estimate to see if you’re getting a fair, good, or great deal.
This puts the power in your hands — no guesswork, no surprises.
Tips to Save Money on Your Move
- Move during the off-season (October–March) for lower rates
- Declutter before you pack — less stuff means less weight and fewer hours
- Get multiple quotes — submit a free service order on Extra Help Moving and compare
- Be flexible with dates — mid-week and mid-month moves are often cheaper
- Pack what you can yourself — hire movers for labor and heavy lifting only
Get Your Free AI Estimate Today
Submit a service order at no charge on Extra Help Moving. Our AI calculates an estimated price range, then FMCSA-verified professional movers within 50 miles contact you directly with their quotes. Compare and choose the best deal — it’s that simple.