Moving Costs: How to Budget Your Move [2025]

Wondering how to move without breaking the bank?

This guide will teach you everything you need to know about moving costs—how much movers charge, where to find free supplies, and the best ways to save. You’ll also learn how to compare companies and avoid surprise fees.

Understanding Moving Costs

What Affects Moving Costs?

While prices vary by company and location, most moving services are priced based on similar factors like distance, load size, and labor.

Let’s break down the way movers typically calculate costs, and how pricing can differ between local and national moving companies.

Moving Load

One of the biggest factors affecting your moving cost is the amount of items you’re transporting. Most professional movers calculate pricing based on the size of your home, the estimated weight of your items, and the time required to load and unload them.

Moving companies typically use one of two pricing models:

• By volume (cubic feet): Every item contributes to the total cost, making it easier to exceed the estimate if you underestimate how much you have.
• By truck size: You’re charged based on the size of the truck (ex. 20-foot). As long as everything fits, you won’t pay extra.

Pricing by truck size is often more predictable and budget-friendly. Volume-based pricing can result in unexpected overages if your inventory estimate is too low.

Moving Distance

The distance of your move is just as important, if not more so, than the size of your home when it comes to pricing. Movers typically charge for both mileage and time. This means the farther you go, the more you’ll pay.

Local moves, such as from San Francisco to Oakland, are generally less expensive. Local companies often charge hourly and may offer better rates than national movers, who are more likely to charge by cubic footage.

Here’s a breakdown of average costs for local moves (same state):

• 1-bedroom: ~$424 (4 hours, 2 movers)
• 2-bedroom: ~$954 (6 hours, 3 movers)
• 3-bedroom: ~$1,484 (7 hours, 4 movers)
• 4-bedroom: ~$1,900+ (10+ hours, 4 movers)

Long-distance moves (typically 1,000+ miles across states) are priced by weight, volume, and mileage. Average costs include:

• Studio or 1-bedroom: $1,123 – $2,260
• 2–3 bedrooms: $2,272 – $4,343
• 4–5 bedrooms: $4,137 – $5,553

To avoid unexpected costs, estimate how much you’re moving and compare quotes from multiple companies. Even rough estimates of your load size can help you get more accurate pricing.

Hidden Moving Fees to Watch For

There are several other overlooked expenses that can affect your total moving budget. Here’s what to look out for.

• New Furniture & Shipping Costs: Big-ticket items like couches or beds often come with added shipping and taxes. For example, a $1,000 furniture budget might only cover an $800 couch after delivery fees and tax are factored in.
• Stair Fees: If movers need to carry items up or down stairs, they may charge extra. Most companies ask about stairs during the quoting process.
• Storage Rentals: If you’re downsizing or need extra time to organize, short-term storage can help. Expect to pay around $100/month for a basic storage unit, with prices depending on size and location.
• Pest Inspection: Hiring a professional to inspect your new place for pests may seem optional, but it can prevent major issues later. Inspections are typically inexpensive compared to the cost of replacing furniture or dealing with infestations.
• Tipping Movers: It’s standard to tip movers 5–10% of your total bill, or $5–$10 per mover, per hour—especially for long or difficult jobs.

What’s the Best Way to Move on a Budget?

Moving doesn’t have to be expensive. With some thoughtful planning, you can manage a cost-effective move. Here’s the best way to move on a budget.

Do your Research

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is sacrificing quality service for a lower rate. To get the best value for your money, it’s important to hire a reputable moving company.

To choose a trustworthy mover, start by checking that the company is licensed and insured. You can verify credentials on the U.S. Department of Transportation website.

Next, read customer reviews to learn from real experiences. This feedback can help you spot red flags early.

Finally, look for industry recognition, such as certification from the American Moving and Storage Association or local awards. These are strong indicators of a reliable, professional mover.

Get Multiple Quotes

Always get at least three quotes to compare prices, services, and terms. When reviewing estimates, ask the right questions to avoid surprise charges later.

Here’s what to ask your movers:

• What’s included? Are packing, unpacking, and furniture assembly part of the base rate?
• How is pricing calculated? Is it by hour, weight, or volume?
• Are there extra fees? Ask about charges for stairs, long carries, or limited parking access.
• Is this a binding estimate? This guarantees your total cost won’t change after the move begins.
• What materials are provided? Will they include mattress bags, stretch wrap, or pads, or charge extra for them?

Comparing quotes side by side helps you spot hidden fees and choose the best value without sacrificing quality.

Use Free Packing Materials

Packing supplies add up quickly. Boxes alone average $2.81 each, not including tape, wrap, or bins. To save, start by collecting free boxes from grocery stores, bookstores, large retailers, or online platforms like Craigslist and the U-Haul Box Exchange.

Skip expensive padding materials by using items you already have, like towels, blankets, or clothing, to wrap fragile items.

Before buying anything, ask your moving company if they include packing supplies or charge extra. Small changes like this can significantly reduce your total moving cost.

Opt for a DIY Move

Hiring professional movers can get expensive. A DIY move offers a budget-friendly alternative, if you’re willing to plan ahead. Here are some ideas to consider.

• Portable moving containers: Renting a moving pod is cheaper than full-service movers. Cost depends on container size, duration, and distance.
• Recruit friends and family: Ask for help with packing or lifting. You’ll save money and possibly rehome items you don’t want to bring.
• Rent a moving truck: Local rentals are often cheaper than national brands, but may not work for long-distance moves. Just remember to budget for gas, tolls, and cleaning fees.

Move During Off-Peak Times

Late fall and winter are typically the most affordable times to move. Demand drops during colder months, giving you more flexibility in scheduling and better pricing on moving services.

Since fewer people move in winter, landlords and property managers may offer lower rent rates or move-in specials to fill vacancies quickly. If you’re looking to save, consider planning your move between October and February.

Moving On A Budget FAQs

What factors affect moving costs?

Moving costs primarily depend on distance, load size, and labor time. Local moves are often priced hourly. Long-distance moves factor in miles traveled, weight, and volume. Seasonal timing and accessibility (like stairs or long carries) also play a role.

What hidden fees should I watch for?

Watch for potential extra charges such as stair fees, elevator use, long‑carry fees, fuel surcharges, and storage rentals. Binding estimates can help you avoid surprises.

Is a DIY move cheaper than hiring movers?

DIY moves are usually less expensive when you handle packing, disassembly, and loading yourself. But you have to factor in truck rental, fuel, time, and physical effort, especially for long-distance moves.

When is the best time to move?

The best time to move is late fall or winter (October–February). During off-peak seasons, there is less demand. This means moving companies have lower rates, and rental availability increases.