How Much Do Movers Cost?
Moving prices split into two models: a local move is priced by the hour; a long-distance move by weight and distance. Per Angi 2026 data, a typical local move runs ~$1,700 (commonly $877–$2,552); long-distance often lands $2,700–$10,000+ by home size and mileage.
Local moves: priced by the hour
~$40–$80 per mover/hour standard (Angi 2026); $80–$150 in high-cost metros (NYC, SF, LA); crews of 2–4. A two-mover crew at $70/hr each ≈ $140/hr combined; a studio 3–5 hrs, a 3-bed a full day.
| Home size | Local-move total (2026) | |
|---|---|---|
| Studio/1-bed | ~$400–$1,200 | |
| 2-bed | ~$900–$1,800 | |
| 3–4 bed | ~$1,700–$2,500+ | . |
Long-distance: priced by weight and distance
Quoted on shipment weight + miles (binding or non-binding after a survey). Typical $2,700–$10,000+ (Angi 2026); a 2–3 bed at moderate distance ~$3,000–$5,300, climbing cross-country. Decluttering before a long move directly lowers the price — every box is weight you pay to haul.
What drives cost (both)
Volume/weight; distance/access (stairs, long carries, elevators); packing services (~$280–$2,200, Angi 2026); specialty items (piano, safe); timing (summer/weekends/month-ends peak); insurance/valuation. Sourced ranges, not quotes — get ≥3 in-home/video estimates; insist on a written binding estimate for long-distance.
DIY vs full-service
| Option | You pay for | Best when |
|---|---|---|
| DIY rental truck | Truck, fuel, equipment, your time | Tight budget, short distance |
| Hybrid (you pack, they drive) | Container / you-load-they-haul | Some savings, less lifting |
| Full-service | Loading, transport, unloading (+optional packing) | Long distance, large home, limited time |
DIY is almost always cheaper out of pocket; the trade is time/risk/liability.
Tipping
Customary for good service: ~$4–$5 per mover/hour, or 10–20% of total split among the crew, adjusted for difficulty. Cash, handed to each mover.
Keep costs down
Declutter first; move off-peak; get three written estimates; pack yourself; verify the mover is licensed (USDOT for interstate) and read reviews for damage/claims patterns.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much to tip?
~$4–$5/mover/hour or 10–20% of total.
DIY or hire?
DIY cheaper out of pocket; full-service costs more, handles everything.
Cheapest time?
Mid-month, mid-week, outside May–Sept peak.
Are estimates binding?
They can be — a binding estimate locks the price; request one for long-distance.
CTA: Collect three written estimates, declutter to cut weight, and compare totals with the cost calculator.
Sources: Angi “How Much Do Movers Cost? [2026]” (local averages, hourly, long-distance, packing); moveBuddha Moving Cost Calculator 2026.