Moving Cost Calculator
Estimate moving costs based on distance, home size, and DIY vs professional movers.
Results
Visualization
How It Works
Moving costs depend on distance, home size, and move type. Local professional moves average $1,000-$3,000. Long-distance can be $3,000-$10,000+. DIY saves 50-70%.
The Formula
Variables
- Distance — Miles between origin and destination
- Home Size — Bedrooms — determines truck size and labor
- Move Type — Professional full-service vs DIY truck rental
Worked Example
Pro move, 2BR, 50 miles: Labor (6hrs*$80)=$480, truck=$100, packing=$250, distance=$25. Subtotal=$855. Tip=$128. Total=~$983.
Practical Tips
- Get 3+ quotes from licensed movers.
- Mid-week and mid-month moves are 20-30% cheaper.
- Declutter before moving to reduce costs.
- Check if your employer offers relocation assistance.
- Compare full-service vs portable containers vs truck rental.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do movers cost?
Local: $80-120/hr for 2-person crew. 2BR local: $400-720 labor. Long-distance: priced by weight and distance.
Is DIY cheaper?
Yes — truck rental $50-200 locally vs $800-2000 for pros. But factor in your time and injury risk.
How much to tip movers?
15-20% of total, split among crew. $50-67 each for a $1,000 move.
Are moving expenses deductible?
Only for active-duty military since 2018 tax reform.
How far in advance to book?
4-8 weeks local, 8-12 weeks long-distance. Longer during peak season (May-Sep).