Hiring professional movers typically costs between $800 and $2,500 for a local move. For long-distance moves, expect to pay between $2,000 and over $12,000, depending on distance, home size, and the level of service you choose.
But what do those numbers really mean — and how can you budget accurately for your upcoming move? This guide breaks down everything you need to know about professional moving costs in 2025.
📦 Local vs. Long-Distance Moving Costs
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Local Moves (under 100 miles):
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Average Cost: $800 – $2,500
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Pricing Method: Usually charged hourly
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What’s Included: Loading, transport, unloading, and basic furniture assembly
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Long-Distance Moves (100+ miles or across states):
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Average Cost: $2,000 – $12,000+
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Pricing Method: Based on mileage, weight of your items, and additional services
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What’s Included: Varies widely — packing, storage, special handling, and delivery window flexibility can all affect cost
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🏠 How Home Size Affects Moving Costs
| Home Size | Local Move Cost | Long-Distance Move Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Studio/1-Bedroom | $400 – $1,500 | $1,500 – $3,500 |
| 2–3 Bedrooms | $800 – $3,000 | $3,500 – $8,000 |
| 4+ Bedrooms | $2,000 – $5,000+ | $8,000 – $12,000+ |
The more rooms you have, the more furniture, boxes, and labor hours are needed. That’s why square footage and inventory volume are key pricing factors.
🧰 Additional Services That Affect Price
Most movers offer tiered services that can significantly raise (or lower) your total moving bill. Here are a few extras to watch for:
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Packing/Unpacking: $200 – $2,000+
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Storage Services: $100 – $300/month
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Specialty Items (pianos, artwork, safes): $100 – $1,000+
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Insurance & Valuation Coverage: Basic coverage is often free; full-value protection adds cost
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Stairs, Elevators, or Long Carries: Can add $100 – $500+
💡 Tip: Request an in-home estimate or virtual walkthrough for the most accurate quote.
🚚 DIY vs. Full-Service Movers
If your goal is to save money, compare the cost of renting a moving truck ($300–$1,000) with hiring labor-only services. But if you want to avoid the physical strain and logistics, full-service movers may be worth the higher price.
📊 How to Get the Best Moving Deal
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Get at least 3 quotes from licensed, insured companies.
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Book early — especially for summer and weekend moves.
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Declutter before moving to cut weight and cost.
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Ask about hidden fees (fuel, tolls, stair carries, etc.).
✅ Summary: What You Should Budget For
Professional movers in 2025 typically cost:
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Local moves: $800 to $2,500
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Long-distance moves: $2,000 to $12,000+
Ultimately, the final price will depend on your home size, moving distance, and any extra services you request. By comparing quotes and understanding what’s included, you can move smarter — and avoid budget surprises.