Moving Estimates: Average Cost of Movers (2026 Data)

• Local moves (under 100 miles): Professional movers typically charge $300–$3,500+ for local moves.
• Long-distance moves (100+ miles): Professional movers typically charge $1,000–$12,000+ for long-distance moves.
• Moving containers, local: Expect to pay $400–$700.
• Truck rental, local: Expect to pay $30–$500.
• Professional packing add-on: Packing typically adds $900–$1,500.
• Typical mover tip: Most people tip $20–$60 per mover.

Jump to the moving estimate info you’re looking for:

• Recent moving estimates from real moves
• How much do movers cost?
• What are the types of moving estimates?
• How much do local moves cost?
• How much do long-distance moves cost?
• Average cost of DIY moves
• Professional movers vs. DIY
• How are moving costs calculated?
• How do you get an accurate moving estimate?
• What factors affect your moving cost?
• How to lower your moving costs
• FAQ

• Professional movers: Local moves cost between $300 and $3,500+, while long-distance moves range from $1,000 to $12,000+, based on moveBuddha cost data.
• Moving containers: The average person pays between $400 and $700 for a local move, and $900 to $6,500+ for long-distance container services, according to moveBuddha’s pricing data.
• Rental trucks: moveBuddha cost data shows that local truck rentals cost between $30 and $500 on average, and pricing structures vary from company to company.

To get an accurate moving quote, always take these steps:

1. Use our moving cost calculator to get an estimate tailored to your move details. It weighs distance, home size, move date, and service level together, so your quote reflects your actual move rather than a generic average.
2. Get at least three quotes from moving companies to compare pricing.
3. Understand your needs and know whether you need packing, unpacking, storage, or specialized services.
4. Factor in additional costs like tolls, moving supplies, tips, and extra services.

Pro tip: Ask every mover to label the estimate type in writing, then compare quotes of the same type using our moving cost calculator as a benchmark.

Prices are sourced from moveBuddha’s proprietary moving pricing dataset, which collects 1,000+ live price points every month. moveBuddha’s pricing data and research have been cited by The New York Times, CNBC, and Consumer Reports. See our methodology.

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.

• 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, based on moveBuddha’s 2026 cost data. For interstate moves, average moving container costs range from $900–$6,500 or more.
• Moving truck rental cost (e.g., Budget, Penske, U-Haul): moveBuddha found that Local truck rentals typically cost $20–$250 per day depending on company and truck size, plus mileage fees. For long-distance rentals, expect total costs of $800–$3,500+ depending on your move’s distance and truck size.
  • 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.
  • U-Haul starts around $19–$39 a day for local moves (plus mileage).

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.

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.

• Request a virtual or in-home survey: A phone call produces a ballpark quote that can change, while a survey lets the mover price what you are actually moving. Ask every mover on your shortlist for one.
• Get at least three quotes and compare them line by line: Check that each quote includes the same stairs, long carries, bulky items, and packing. According to moveBuddha’s cost data, bulky-item handling can add $150–$400 per item, and access fees add $75–$500+, so a cheaper quote may simply leave them out.
• Ask which estimate type you are getting: A binding estimate locks the price, while a non-binding estimate can change on moving day. See the types of moving estimates above.
• Check credentials: Confirm the company is a registered moving company and not a broker, since moveBuddha does not recommend working with moving brokers. Interstate movers should be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation.
• Confirm your coverage: Released Value Coverage and Full Value Coverage are carrier liability protections, not moving insurance. Ask which one the estimate includes and what it costs to upgrade.

• 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. Based on moveBuddha’s seasonal cost data, the cheapest time to move is between October and April.
• Fuel costs and surcharges: Fuel surcharges fluctuate with diesel prices and can be added on top of your base quote. Always ask your mover whether fuel costs are included in your estimate or billed as a separate line item.
• 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. (Source: moveBuddha packing cost data)
• 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 two- to three-bedroom home, according to moveBuddha’s packing cost research.
• 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+ to your moving costs, based on moveBuddha’s carrier data. 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. Based on data from our Better Moves Project participants, most people tip $20–$60 per mover (or 5%–10% of the total cost split among the crew).

• 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 at least six weeks in advance, or eight weeks during peak season. 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 two- to three-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.