How Much Do Movers Cost in 2026? Complete Pricing Guide

The short answer

Local moves (under 100 miles) typically run $500–$3,500+ depending on home size, crew size, and hours worked. Long-distance moves (across state lines) typically run $1,500–$8,500+ depending on distance, total weight, and add-on services. Most companies price local moves hourly and long-distance moves by weight and mileage — understanding which model applies to your move is the first step to budgeting accurately.

How local movers calculate your price

Local moving cost is mostly a function of labor time:

• Hourly rate × crew size × hours worked, plus a one-time travel or trip fee
• Most movers have a 2–4 hour minimum, billed in 15–30 minute increments after that
• A 1-bedroom apartment might take 3–4 hours with two movers; a 3-bedroom house might take 7–9 hours with three

How long-distance movers calculate your price

Interstate moves are usually priced by shipment weight and distance:

• Linehaul charge: weight (lbs) × distance (miles) × a per-pound-mile rate
• A studio apartment (~2,000 lbs) moving a few hundred miles might land around $1,500
• A 3-bedroom house (~7,000–9,000 lbs) moving cross-country can exceed $7,000

What pushes your price up

• Peak season: May–August accounts for nearly half of all annual moves — expect higher rates and less availability
• Weekend and month-end dates: the busiest days on any mover's calendar
• Stairs, long carries, and no elevator access
• Full-service packing — expect a 20–35% premium over a self-packed move
• Specialty items: pianos, safes, pool tables, and fine art often carry extra handling fees

What brings your price down

• Moving mid-week and mid-month, outside of peak summer season
• Packing your own boxes and disassembling furniture ahead of time
• Decluttering before the move — fewer items means less weight and less time
• Booking 3–4 weeks ahead instead of last-minute, when rates tend to spike

Get an accurate number, not a guess

Ballpark ranges are useful for budgeting, but the only way to get a real number is a quote based on your actual origin, destination, move date, and home size. Our free instant quote tool factors in all of this and matches you with a vetted partner at a transparent, itemized price — no surprise fees on move day.