How Much Does It Cost To Move On Average?

Deciding to move homes is a big decision, and your budget plays a big part in that decision. How much money you can put aside for moving to your new home will also dictate how much of the process you can outsource to other people or have to take on yourself.  However, with so many of us strapped for time as it is, being able to pay someone to take on some of these tasks can remove stress. With cost and convenience in mind, this article will explore the question how much does it cost to move on average.

The cost of moving companies

The average cost of a moving company ranges from $1,250 to nearly $5,000, depending on whether you’re moving locally or long distance. This is based on a 2-3 bedroom house, while a larger property will naturally cost more. When choosing a moving company, you need to consider the size of your property and the number of belongings you own, plus the mileage of your move. Long distance movers have to factor in gas prices and tolls, as well as labor costs, so that can boost the price considerably, even to five-figures in some cases. 

Factors that impact your moving costs

It’s not just the cost of movers that you need to consider when you’re budgeting for a move, whether it’s a minor or large-scale move.

The size of your move

The more items you need to move, the more expensive it will be. And it’s not just the quantity of goods but also the size of the items. Heavier, bulkier items take longer to move and require more manpower, which can increase the costs. 

Packing services

Hiring a company to pack up your belongings is certainly easier and less stressful than doing it yourself, but it could add several hundred dollars to your overall costs. However, depending on your schedule and moving timeline, it could be money well spent for your circumstances. You may want to consider a full-service moving company that offers packing and provides transparent pricing for it.

Storage

If you’re managing a complicated move, storage requirements may be needed to store your belongings before, during or even after a move. Storage rates naturally vary depending on the size of storage you need and the location you’re storing your items in, so doing your research for the best price at the needed level of convenience is essential. 

Supplies

Purchasing moving supplies, such as packing tape, boxes and bubble wrap, all adds up and unless you have enough supplies for your move already, these need to be budgeted for. 

Timing

If you’re moving over the weekend, or during a peak season for moving companies, this will increase the costs of your move compared to an off-season, weekday move. 

Insurance protection

You’ll likely want some form of liability cover if you’re using a moving company, and this isn’t typically factored into your base moving fees. There are typically several levels of protection, based on the level of coverage you need.

Additional Moving Costs

There are also various additional services you may need to consider. Moving specialty items like pianos or valuable antiques and art need specific expertise. Costs such as stair carry fees, unpacking services, and expedited moving fees, extra stops, etc. may all have extra fees. And while tips aren’t essential, they’re certainly appreciated and should be budgeted for. 

Keeping moving costs down

Moving can be very expensive, especially if you have a lot of belongings you want to take with you. But there are some ways you can keep the costs down and save a few dollars along the way. 

Sell unwanted items

It’s often not until you’ve started going through your belongings that you realize just how much you hold onto that you no longer need. MPB, a business specializing in the sale and trade of used camera equipment, states that thousands of us are sitting on a treasure trove of unused tech — from cameras and phones to smartwatches, TVs, and other gadgets — that could amount to well over $1,000 in resale value. If you’re packing away your belongings and stumble across an old camera you no longer use or discarded phones, why not sell them on for a profit? It’s money that can be put towards your moving costs and prevents items from going to waste. 

Make use of free boxes and supplies

Your local grocery store or office buildings are likely to have used boxes going to waste. See if you can use them to keep the cost of moving supplies lower. If not, take a look on Craigslist or local Facebook groups as other people may have recently moved and have boxes available for free. 

Time your move wisely

When you move makes a big difference on cost, so if it’s possible to delay your move to a weekday or in a period where prices are cheaper, it can really help you save money on moving. More people tend to move in the spring and summer and especially during the last weekend of the month, so try to avoid moving during these times if you’re able to.  

Get multiple quotes

Lastly, if you use a professional moving company, don’t go with the first business you find. Shop around for the best price and deals, and get quotes from at least three companies. It also pays to read reviews from past customers and ask friends and family for recommendations. It is important to find a business you can trust at a price that fits your needs.

Moving is a stressful but exciting time. However, don’t let the worry of budgeting for it ruin the adventure. With forward planning and a few tricks, you can make your move more cost-effective.