Why we don't publish prices
We don't publish moving prices. No standardized regional price index for local moves is published for the cities we serve; costs reflect local mover reporting, and two moves between homes of the same size can cost very different amounts. A number on a website can't see your stairs or your garage. What we can do is explain what drives the cost, so you can read an estimate and understand why two movers' estimates differ.
How local moves are usually priced
Most local moves are priced by the hour, for a crew and a truck. Some movers also offer a fixed price, or a not-to-exceed price, after a detailed walk-through. Each has trade-offs.
- Hourly. You pay for the time the crew actually works. Efficient preparation saves money; delays cost it.
- Fixed price. The price is set in advance for an agreed list of items and services. If the list changes on the day, so can the price.
- Not-to-exceed. An hourly move with a cap, based on the walk-through.
What drives the cost
Crew size and hours
The number of movers and the time they work is the core of most local moves. A bigger crew costs more per hour but may finish sooner.
Minimums and travel time
Many movers charge a minimum number of hours. Many also charge for travel time from their base to your home and back, or a flat trip fee. Ask how they handle both.
Volume
How much you're moving drives both the time and the truck size. Clearing out before the move is the simplest way to reduce cost.
Access
Stairs, elevators, long carries from the door to the truck, narrow hallways and a truck that can't park close all add time. Some movers price them separately.
Packing and materials
Full packing, partial packing and unpacking add labor. Boxes, paper, dish packs and wardrobe boxes are usually charged separately.
Heavy and special items
Pianos, safes, pool tables and other heavy or awkward items may carry extra charges, extra crew or a separate specialist.
Timing
Weekends, month-end dates and summer are the busiest times, and some movers charge more then. A weekday in the middle of the month can cost less and be easier to book.
Disassembly and appliances
Taking apart and reassembling furniture, and disconnecting and reconnecting appliances, takes time. Ask whether it's included.
Deposits, payment and cancellation
Some movers take a deposit to hold a date; ask whether it's refundable and how much notice you need to give to cancel or change the date without losing it. Ask how and when the balance is paid, which payment methods the mover accepts, and whether a card payment costs extra. Tipping the crew is customary in many places but always optional; it isn't part of the price.
Why estimates differ
Estimates can differ because one mover saw more of the house, planned a different crew size, included packing or stairs, or assumed a different amount of preparation. Line them up item by item. An estimate given without seeing the home, in person or by video, is a guess.
Reading an estimate
A good estimate names:
- the rooms and major items included;
- the crew size and truck;
- how the price is calculated, including minimums, travel time and any cap;
- stairs, long carries and heavy-item charges;
- packing, materials and unpacking;
- what the mover is responsible for if something is damaged.
Questions to ask about price
- Is this hourly, fixed or not-to-exceed, and what could change it on the day?
- Is there a minimum, and do you charge for travel time?
- What's included in materials, and how are extras charged?
- When and how do I pay?