How Much Does It Really Costs to Move

Whether you are moving across the city or across the country, making the decision to do so can be an exciting time.

But it can also be a milestone surrounded by uncertainty: How will my kids adjust to a new school? Will I like my new neighborhood? Am I making the right decision?

And there’s one question pretty much everyone who is thinking about moving asks themselves: How Much Does It Really Costs to Move?

There are all kinds of moving expenses to be aware of like changes in the cost of living, balancing two mortgages (or a rent and mortgage) during the transition, and of course the cost of actually getting all your belongings from place to another.

We will show you the estimated costs of moving, and the pros and cons for both ways of moving – DIY or hire a professional company.

Estimate Cost of Moving

According to research, there are average costs for moving, which of course, vary by region and by distance.

For example, a Local (under 100 Miles) move with 2 movers and truck will cost you between $80 and $100 per hour. Moreover, you will have to pay from $25 to $50 extra per each additional mover.

On the other hand, Interstate or Cross-country move will be between $2,000-$5,000 plus $0.50 per pound.

As you can see, there is a big gap between the prices, which means that each move has very different specifics and factors which affect it.

How Much Does It Cost to Move Across Town?

For local moves, you’ll usually pay an hourly rate that includes a truck and the services of two movers.

Whether the laborers are packing, loading, carrying, or driving, the same hourly rate will apply. Expect to pay at least $25 per hour per mover, but actual costs vary widely based on your location.

The bigger your home is, the longer your move will take, and the more you will have to pay.

For moving a studio apartment, it typically takes two movers and no less than three to five hours. To move a 2-bedroom apartment, it will take one additional mover and about five to seven hours. And to move a 3-bedroom house, four laborers will work for about seven to ten hours. Again, note that all these are averages and the costs will vary depending on how much stuff you own.

Extra costs can also appear if you have heavy or bulky items such a piano, motorcycles, swing sets, lawn mowers, and other extra large furniture.

For example, moving a piano may cost you an extra $150 to $800, and even $2,500 extra if the movers need to lift it with a crane. All of these heavy, bulky items are often hard to handle and take up extra space in the truck, for which they are more expensive.

If you decide to go for a DIY approach, you will save significant money, but the move will take even more time. You also risk damaging your belongings or injuring yourself lifting heavy furniture. Professional movers have insurance to protect your items and it’s important to take this into consideration if you decide to move by yourself.

How Much Does It Cost to Move Across Country?

The difference in terms of costs here is that you will be charged based on two key variables: distance and weight.

Calculations of distance costs are not complicated at all. The farther a moving company has to transport your belongings, the higher the bill will be.

You’ll likely be charged a per-mile rate in addition to the weight-based fees. Don’t forget to ask if there are any additional transportation charges, like fuel or tolls.

Before the move, your mover will weigh the empty truck and provide you with a “tare weight” receipt or certificate. Tare weight is the weight of an empty vehicle or container which can determine the weight of the goods carried if it’s subtracted from the gross weight.

Moreover, reputable moving companies will provide you with a cost estimate prior to your move, which will be as relevant as the information you will provide.
For example, if you have a shed full of tools that you failed to mention, the estimated weight of your load won’t be correct.

The Bottom Line

Now, when you know the estimated costs of moving within the city or cross-country, and the difference between DIY and professional approaches, you have the answer to the question – How Much Does it Really Costs to Move.

You can start planning your move and streamline the whole process, without being surprised by unexpected costs and issues. Good luck!