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Data Analysis by: Hilary SnowMoving cost quick facts (2026)
The following ranges reflect average moving costs in the U.S. for 2026, based on real quotes and moveBuddha’s pricing data.
- Local moves (under 100 miles): $500 – $3,500+
- Long-distance moves (1,000+ miles): $1,500 – $8,500+
- Moving containers, local: $400 – $700
- Truck rental, local: $30 – $500
- Professional packing add-on: $900 – $1,500
- Typical mover tip: $20 – $60 per mover
Use moveBuddha’s free moving cost calculator to instantly estimate your total moving cost based on distance, home size, move date, and service level. Our moving calculator provides a data-backed cost range based on over a decade of research and real prices from our moving cost database, the largest in the industry. Get a calculated estimate, then compare real-time moving estimates from local or interstate movers, moving containers, and rental trucks and view your results side by side.
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How much do movers cost in 2026?
The average cost to move varies based on the type of mover you hire, the services you select, how far you’re moving, and how much you need to move. We’ve provided sample cost data for different types of moves below.
Local moves (under 100 miles) cost $500 – $3,500+ on average. Long-distance moves (1,000+ miles) range from $1,500 – $8,500+. Home size, distance, shipment weight, and service level can all affect your final move cost.
- Professional movers: Local moves cost between $500 and $3,500+, while long-distance moves range from $1,500 to $8,500+.
- Moving containers: Expect to pay between $400 and $700 for local moves, and $900 to $4,500 for long-distance container services.
- Rental trucks: Local truck rentals cost between $30 and $500 on average, with pricing structures varying from company to company.
To get an accurate moving quote, always take these steps:
- Use a moving cost calculator to get an estimate tailored to your move details.
- Get at least three quotes from moving companies to compare pricing.
- Understand your needs and know whether you need packing, unpacking, storage, or specialized services.
- Factor in additional costs like tolls, moving supplies, tips, and extra services.
Average cost of local moves
A local move is under 100 miles and usually stays within the same state. These are called intrastate moves. They’re regulated by state law and typically priced by the hour.
Local movers typically charge $25 – $100 per mover per hour, with most jobs requiring a crew of two to four movers. Many companies have a 2 – 4 hour minimum. Here’s what you can expect to pay by home size:
| Home size | Crew size | Est. hours | Avg. hourly rate (crew) | Avg. total cost (2026) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | 2 movers | 2 – 3 hrs | $100 – $150/hr | $340 |
| 1 bedroom | 2 movers | 3 – 4 hrs | $100 – $150/hr | $460 |
| 2 bedroom | 3 movers | 4 – 6 hrs | $150 – $270/hr | $725 |
| 3 bedroom | 3 – 4 movers | 6 – 8 hrs | $180 – $320/hr | $1,625 |
| 4 bedroom | 4 movers | 7 – 10 hrs | $200 – $400/hr | $1,860 |
| 5+ bedroom | 4 – 5 movers | 9 – 12 hrs | $250 – $500/hr | $2,850 |
Prices are sourced from moveBuddha’s proprietary moving pricing dataset, updated monthly with 1,000+ new data points. moveBuddha’s pricing data and research have been cited by The New York Times, Bloomberg, and USA Today. See our methodology.
Average cost of movers by state
Moving costs vary by state, and so do your options for movers. Browse our best movers by state hub to compare companies where you live.
| State | Local move ~50 miles cost (2026) | Interstate move ~500 miles cost (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $1,140 | $4,100 |
| Arizona | $660 | $3,970 |
| Arkansas | $650 | $4,050 |
| California | $995 | $3,950 |
| Colorado | $980 | $4,030 |
| Connecticut | $1,090 | $3,680 |
| Delaware | $1,220 | $3,810 |
| Florida | $960 | $3,500 |
| Georgia | $870 | $4,030 |
| Idaho | $860 | $4,660 |
| Illinois | $1,380 | $3,800 |
| Indiana | $1,120 | $3,960 |
| Iowa | $1,700 | $4,000 |
| Kansas | $890 | $4,120 |
| Kentucky | $740 | $4,070 |
| Louisiana | $1,220 | $3,960 |
| Maine | $1,180 | $4,660 |
| Maryland | $910 | $3,690 |
| Massachusetts | $1,010 | $3,880 |
| Michigan | $1,160 | $3,960 |
| Minnesota | $860 | $4,050 |
| Mississippi | $910 | $4,200 |
| Missouri | $1,000 | $3,920 |
| Montana | $1,050 | $4,660 |
| Nebraska | $910 | $4,000 |
| Nevada | $850 | $3,850 |
| New Hampshire | $1,570 | $4,470 |
| New Jersey | $1,090 | $3,690 |
| New Mexico | $660 | $4,310 |
| New York | $1,070 | $3,500 |
| North Carolina | $900 | $3,730 |
| North Dakota | $850 | $4,740 |
| Ohio | $950 | $4,080 |
| Oklahoma | $840 | $4,040 |
| Oregon | $1,020 | $4,470 |
| Pennsylvania | $1,050 | $3,810 |
| Rhode Island | $880 | $3,690 |
| South Carolina | $1,100 | $3,730 |
| South Dakota | $1,500 | $4,660 |
| Tennessee | $990 | $4,080 |
| Texas | $880 | $3,960 |
| Utah | $1,310 | $4,000 |
| Vermont | $1,780 | $4,470 |
| Virginia | $890 | $3,730 |
| Washington | $1,470 | $4,470 |
| West Virginia | $1,310 | $4,080 |
| Wisconsin | $1,170 | $4,040 |
| Wyoming | $880 | $4,660 |
Average cost of long-distance moves
A long-distance move is 100+ miles and often crosses state lines (an interstate move). Average long-distance moving costs range from $1,000 – $14,000+, depending on the size and distance of your move. Most long-distance moves cost between $3,060 – $5,280 for a 2 – 3 bedroom home.
| Mileage | Studio/1 bedroom cost (2026) | 2 – 3 bedrooms cost (2026) | 4 bedrooms cost (2026) | 5+ bedrooms cost (2026) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 150 – 250 miles | $1,165 – $2,650 | $2,650 – $4,385 | $2,860 – $6,230 | $3,290 – $7,165 |
| 250 – 500 miles | $1,380 – $3,085 | $2,778 – $4,669 | $3,088 – $6,545 | $3,550 – $7,525 |
| 500 – 1,000 miles | $1,845 – $4,020 | $3,060 – $5,280 | $3,580 – $7,220 | $4,115 – $8,305 |
| 1,000 – 1,500 miles | $2,200 – $4,695 | $3,525 – $5,955 | $4,305 – $8,270 | $4,950 – $9,510 |
| 1,500 – 2,500 miles | $2,335 – $4,860 | $4,375 – $6,750 | $5,500 – $10,070 | $6,325 – $11,580 |
Interstate vs. intrastate moves: An intrastate move stays within one state and is regulated by state law. Pricing is typically hourly. An interstate move crosses state lines and is regulated by the FMCSA. Pricing is based on shipment weight and distance. Interstate moves are almost always more expensive for equivalent distances.
Average city-to-city moving cost estimates
Based on moveBuddha’s proprietary 2026 moving cost data, here’s what you can expect to pay to move between major US cities. These ranges reflect estimates for rental trucks, containers, and professional movers from our up-to-date cost guides.
Short-distance moves
| Route | Rental truck cost (2026) | Moving container cost (2026) | Full-service movers cost (2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York City to Boston | $301–$738 | $652–$2,781 | $864–$5,885 |
| Los Angeles to San Diego | $162–$340 | $579–$2,475 | $679–$5,320 |
| Atlanta to Charlotte | $352–$871 | $737–$3,214 | $1,012–$7,206 |
Medium-distance moves
| Route | Rental truck cost (2026) | Moving container cost (2026) | Full-service movers cost (2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dallas to Denver | $695–$1,903 | $897–$4,353 | $1,397–$9,415 |
| Chicago to Charlotte | $654–$1,858 | $933–$4,044 | $1,408–$9,043 |
| New York City to Nashville | $755–$2,067 | $955–$4,352 | $1,329–$8,828 |
Long-distance moves
| Route | Rental truck cost (2026) | Moving container cost (2026) | Full-service movers cost (2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles to Dallas | $1,027–$2,889 | $1,205–$5,580 | $1,445–$11,344 |
| Philadelphia to Austin | $1,219–$3,506 | $1,219–$6,497 | $1,470–$11,486 |
| Seattle to Phoenix | $1,076–$2,991 | $1,219–$5,751 | $1,644–$12,558 |
Average cost of DIY moves
The average cost of a DIY move depends on whether you use a moving container or rental truck, how much you’re moving, and how far you’re going.
- Moving container cost (e.g., PODS): The average cost to move within 50 miles with portable moving container companies is around $400 – $700 for one container. For interstate moves, average moving container costs range from $900 – $4,500 or more.
- Moving truck rental cost (e.g., U-Haul, Penske, Budget): Local truck rentals typically cost $20 – $100 per day depending on truck size, plus mileage fees. U-Haul starts around $19 – $39 a day for local moves (plus mileage). Budget Truck Rental generally starts around $25 – $60 a day. Penske rentals are usually higher, often ranging from $130 – $250 a day for local moves. For long-distance rentals, expect total costs of $800 – $3,000+ depending on your move’s distance and truck size.
Professional movers vs. DIY: which is right for you?
The right move method depends on your budget, timeline, and how much work you want to do yourself. Here’s how the three main options compare:
| Service type | Full-service movers cost (2026) | Moving containers cost (2026) | Rental truck cost (2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local cost | $500 – $3,500+ | $400 – $700 | $30 – $500 |
| Long-distance cost | $1,500 – $8,500+ | $900 – $4,500+ | $500 – $2,500+ |
| Who packs | Movers (or you) | You | You |
| Who drives | Movers | Company | You |
| Storage included | Sometimes | Yes | No |
| Best for | Large or long-distance moves, limited time | Flexible timelines, some DIY comfort | Small moves, tight budgets, short distances |
Not sure which option fits your move? Our guides to the best interstate movers, best moving containers, and best moving truck rentals break down the top companies in each category.
How are moving costs calculated?
Moving companies typically calculate moving costs in one of two ways: local move costs are usually calculated using an hourly rate, while long-distance moves are usually priced using your shipment weight + mileage (plus the services you choose). Our free moving cost calculator uses the same inputs movers use.
How are local moving costs calculated?
Local moving costs are mainly calculated based on labor time. The cost of a local move depends on the crew size, how long the job takes, and add-ons like packing.
In plain terms, you’re paying for the movers’ time, so the more people it takes and the longer the job runs, the more you’ll pay.
Local moving cost formula: (Hourly Rate × Number of Movers × Hours) + Travel/Trip Fee + Packing Materials/Services
Typical local pricing: Many movers have a 2 – 4 hour minimum and bill in 15 – 60 minute increments. Hourly rates vary widely by city, home size, and crew.
Example (local move):
- Labor: $60/hr per mover × 3 movers × 6 hours = $1,080
- Travel fee: + $75
- Materials: + $120 (boxes/wrap)
- Estimated total: $1,080 + $75 + $120 = $1,275
How are long-distance moving costs calculated?
Long-distance moving quotes are calculated using your estimated shipment weight and route distance, then adjusted for service level (packing, storage, special items) and insurance.
Basically, the heavier your shipment and the farther it travels, the more you’ll pay, with add-ons like packing and insurance layered on top.
Long-distance moving cost formula: (Shipment Weight × Distance × Rate per Pound-Mile) + Extra Services (packing/storage) + Valuation/Insurance
Example (long-distance move):
The linehaul charge is the core transportation cost. It’s calculated from your shipment weight and the distance traveled.
- Linehaul (the base transportation charge): 5,000 lb × 1,200 miles × $0.0013 per lb-mile = $7,800
- Packing service: + $900
- Valuation/insurance: + $250
- Estimated total: $7,800 + $900 + $250 = $8,950
Note: Your mover may present long-distance pricing differently (e.g., a single “transportation” or “linehaul” charge), but it usually comes from the same core inputs: weight, miles, and services.
What factors affect your moving cost?
- Move size: Larger moves affect your moving cost because they require more labor and a bigger truck.
- Distance: The greater the distance, the higher your moving quotes will be.
- DIY vs. professional movers: Moving containers or rental trucks are usually cheaper than professional movers, but you do the packing and heavy lifting.
- Time of year: Summer prices are higher because it’s peak moving season. The cheapest time to move is between October and April.
- Moving date: Moving prices are higher on weekends and at the beginning and end of the month.
- Specialty items: Pianos, pool tables, hot tubs, motorcycles, safes, and other bulky items can increase your cost. Ask your mover for a per-item handling fee before booking.
- Packing services: Professional packing costs an extra $0.15 – $0.21 per pound on average and can add $900 – $1,500 depending on home size and what you want packed.
- Packing supplies: If movers use supplies like bubble wrap, mattress covers, or packing paper, they may charge extra. DIY packing supplies typically run $100 – $350+ for a 2 – 3 bedroom home.
- Long-carry, stair-carry, shuttle, or elevator fees: If the mover can’t park close to your door, has to use a smaller truck, or must navigate staircases or elevators, they may charge access fees. These commonly add $75 – $500+. Shuttle service is often priced by weight (typically $0.08 – $0.12 per pound, with a minimum around $200).
- Storage: Short-term storage is sometimes included, but longer storage usually costs extra — around $50 – $300 per month on average.
- Extra stops: Movers typically charge a fee for additional pickup or drop-off stops beyond the primary origin and destination.
- Expedited delivery: For an additional cost, movers can deliver your items by a guaranteed specific date.
- Tips: Tipping is customary for good service. Most people tip $20 – $60 per mover (or 5% – 10% of the total cost split among the crew).
How to lower your moving costs
Moving is expensive, but there are proven ways to cut your costs without cutting corners:
- Sell, donate, or trash. The less you move, the less you’ll pay. Declutter anything that isn’t worth the cost of moving it.
- Be flexible on dates. Avoid moving around holidays, near the end of the month, or during summer. Flexibility can save you hundreds.
- Get multiple moving quotes. It’s not unusual for moving estimates to vary by thousands of dollars. Get at least three quotes before committing.
- Book early. Book your mover 30 to 60 days in advance when possible. Last-minute bookings often cost more and limit your options.
- Ask for price matching and discounts. Don’t hesitate to ask if they’ll match a cheaper quote or offer a moving discount.
- Get free packing supplies. Use our guide to find free moving boxes and other supplies. Buying boxes can easily add $100 – $350+ for a 2 – 3 bedroom home.
- DIY what you can. Packing yourself can save $900 – $1,500 in packing service fees. Reserving parking or elevators in advance can also help you avoid access fees ($75 – $500+).
- Use your existing insurance. Check whether your homeowners or renters insurance covers moving before paying for full-valuation coverage.
Moving cost calculator — Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to move?
Local moves (under 100 miles) typically cost $500 – $3,500+ with full-service movers. Long-distance moves (1,000+ miles) generally range from $1,500 – $8,500+. Your final cost depends on home size, distance, move date, and service level. Use our moving cost calculator to get an estimate tailored to your specific move.
How are moving quotes calculated?
Local moves are typically priced hourly — your total is based on the hourly rate × crew size × hours worked, plus add-ons like travel time, truck fees, materials, and access fees (stairs, long carry). Many movers have a 2 – 4 hour minimum, so confirm what counts as billable time before booking.
Long-distance moves are priced by shipment weight + mileage, then adjusted for service level and valuation. For interstate moves, movers are required to provide a written estimate, either binding (locked price) or non-binding (weight-based final charge).
What is a binding vs. non-binding moving estimate?
For interstate moves, movers must provide a written estimate. There are two types:
- Binding estimate: Locks in the total cost for the items and services listed. At delivery, you generally pay 100% of the binding amount unless you’ve added items or services, in which case the mover should issue a revised estimate before loading.
- Non-binding estimate: A good-faith projection, not a guarantee. Your final charges are based on the mover’s tariff and the actual shipment weight and services performed.
For a full breakdown of what to ask for on your estimate, see our guide to binding vs. non-binding estimates.
What is the 110% rule for moving?
The 110% rule applies to interstate moves with a non-binding estimate. It’s a federal consumer protection that limits how much a mover can require you to pay at the moment of delivery.
At delivery, the mover can require you to pay up to 110% of your original estimate. If your final bill exceeds that, the mover must still release your belongings once you pay 110%, then bill you for the remainder afterward.
Example: Your non-binding estimate is $4,000. At delivery, the mover can require up to $4,400. If the final bill is $5,000, you pay $4,400 at delivery and the mover bills the remaining $600 later.
Two exceptions: the mover can also collect charges for extra services requested after booking that weren’t in the estimate, and certain impracticable operations charges. The official rules are explained by FMCSA here: Estimating Charges (Subpart D).
What is valuation (liability protection)?
Valuation is the level of liability protection your mover provides for loss or damage — it’s not the same as the mover’s business insurance. For interstate moves, you generally choose between two options:
- Full value protection: More comprehensive coverage, costs extra. If something is lost or damaged, the mover must repair, replace, or reimburse you at current market value.
- Released value: No extra cost, but pays only up to 60¢ per pound per article. A 50-pound TV damaged in transit would be worth a maximum of $30 under this option.
Two quotes can look similar but have very different liability terms. Always confirm the valuation option, any deductible, and your declared shipment value in writing on the estimate or bill of lading. Read more about moving insurance or visit the FMCSA’s liability protection page.
Why do moving estimates change?
Estimates are based on the details you provide up front. Common reasons the final price differs from the estimate:
- Inventory accuracy: Adding items or underestimating what you have increases weight and cost.
- Access fees: Stairs, long carries, elevators, shuttles, or bulky items can add charges not in the original estimate.
- Timing: Peak season, weekends, and end-of-month dates often cost more.
- Carrier availability: Long-distance pricing can shift based on capacity and routing.
- Service level changes: Adding packing, storage, crating, or extra stops after booking changes the total.
To keep your price as close to the estimate as possible, request a virtual or in-home survey, share a detailed inventory, and confirm access details before you sign.
Are interstate moves more expensive than intrastate moves?
Usually, yes. Intrastate moves (within the same state) are typically priced hourly and run $500 – $3,500+ for local distances. Interstate moves (crossing state lines) are priced by shipment weight, distance, and service level, and generally range from $1,500 – $8,500+ for 1,000+ miles. A 2 – 3 bedroom move of 1,000 – 1,500 miles typically costs $3,525 – $5,955.
Should I hire movers or do it myself?
Hire full-service movers if you want the fastest, least stressful move, especially for long-distance or large homes. Go DIY with a truck or container if you have a smaller move, willing helpers, and want to save money.
A moving container is a good middle ground: the company handles transportation while you pack and load on your own schedule. If you need help estimating supplies, use our free moving box calculator for estimates based on your move’s details.
What is the cheapest way to move?
The cheapest way to move is a DIY rental truck — especially for local or short-distance moves. Renting a truck from U-Haul, Penske, or Budget and loading it yourself avoids both labor costs and transportation markups. For longer distances, a moving container (like PODS or U-Pack) can be cheaper than full-service movers while still handling the driving. The cheapest full-service option is booking in the off-season (October – April), mid-week, and mid-month with competing quotes in hand. Use our moving cost calculator to compare all three options side by side.
What is the cheapest moving company?
It depends on your move type. For truck rentals, U-Haul is one of the most affordable options. For moving containers, U-Pack offers competitive pricing and transparent quoting. For full-service movers, North American Van Lines and Mayzlin Relocation are among the most affordable. Don’t shop on price alone — make sure any cheap moving company is properly licensed and has a solid reputation.
How much does it cost to have movers pack you?
Professional packing typically adds $900 – $1,500 to your move cost, though it varies by home size. A one-bedroom apartment runs roughly $250 – $500 to pack; a three-bedroom home typically runs $1,000 – $1,800. Specialty or fragile items can increase costs further. One benefit: if the mover packs your boxes, they’re liable for damage resulting from improper packing.
How much should I tip movers?
For a straightforward move, $20 – $50 per mover is a standard tip. For a harder job — heavy items, multiple flights of stairs, or a long day — $50 – $100 per mover is appropriate. Tipping is customary but not required, and cash is preferred.
Are moving expenses tax deductible?
For most people, no. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 suspended the moving expense deduction for most taxpayers through 2025. The main exception is active-duty military members moving under orders — they may still deduct unreimbursed moving expenses. Check with a tax professional or the IRS guidance on moving expenses for your situation.
When is the most expensive time to move?
Moving costs peak from May through September — peak moving season. Within any month, the most expensive days are weekends and the first and last week of the month. If your dates are flexible, moving mid-week and mid-month between October and April will typically get you the lowest rates.
How far in advance should I book my move?
Book at least 6 weeks in advance for the best availability and rates — 8 weeks if you’re moving during peak season (May – September). Get quotes from at least three movers and use a moving checklist to stay on schedule.
Can you negotiate your moving costs?
Yes. Most movers have some flexibility, especially in the off-season. Bring competing quotes and ask for a price match. Ask about moving discounts for seniors, military, or AAA members. Being flexible on your move date or leaving behind heavy specialty items like pool tables or safes can also meaningfully reduce your total. Read our full guide on how to negotiate with moving companies.
Do moving quotes include car shipping?
No. Car shipping is a separate service that not all moving companies offer. If you need to ship a vehicle, get dedicated quotes from car shipping companies. Our car shipping cost calculator can help you factor that into your overall moving budget.
Why should I trust the moveBuddha moving cost calculator?
Our calculator is built on a pricing dataset updated monthly with 1,000+ new data points from across the US. We source rates through automated feeds, direct quote requests, our Better Moves Project, and anonymized user quotes. The dataset covers full-service movers, containers, truck rentals, and moving labor — so you can compare options on the same basis.
Our pricing data has been cited by universities, hedge funds, and outlets including The New York Times, Bloomberg, and USA Today. We only recommend movers that are properly licensed and insured. Read what real customers say about using moveBuddha.
What to do next
- Get your estimate: Use the calculator above to see cost ranges for your specific move.
- Compare top movers: See our vetted picks for local and long-distance moves.
- Use the moving checklist: Stay organized from booking through move day.
moveBuddha’s moving cost methodology
Our calculator runs on one of the most comprehensive and current pricing datasets in the moving industry — updated monthly with 1,000+ new data points from across the United States.
We source real-time rates through automated feeds and APIs, our Better Moves Project, direct quote requests, and anonymized user quotes from this very tool. Our dataset covers full-service movers, containers, truck rentals, and moving labor, so you can compare options on the same basis.
Because our inputs update continuously, our cost averages reflect real-world conditions: fuel prices, labor availability, carrier capacity, seasonality, and active promotions. Rates adjust within weeks as the market shifts.
To keep results accurate and fair, we use median-based lane summaries, stratified sampling by service type, region, and move size, plus outlier detection and provider verification.
After more than a decade of price tracking, our data has been cited by universities, hedge funds, and major outlets including The New York Times, Bloomberg, and USA Today. Friendly advice backed by serious rigor.
