Making the decision to move can be an exciting time, whether you’re moving across town or across the country. However, it can also be a milestone surrounded by uncertainty: Am I making the right decision? How will my kids adjust to a new school? Will I like my new neighborhood?
According to the US Census, 11% of Americans moved in 2016, for reasons relating to housing, family, and employment. There’s one question pretty much everyone who is thinking about moving asks: How much will it cost?
There are all kinds of moving expenses to keep in mind, including changes in the cost of living, balancing two mortgages or rent during the transition, and the cost of actually getting all your belongings from point A to point B. Here’s some information about average moving expenses to help you make sense of it all.
Estimated Moving Costs
Roughly half of all people who move use professional movers, whether they’re moving short or long distances. These are the average costs for moving, according to Home Advisor. Of course, prices vary by region and by distance. Local/ intrastate (under 100 miles, 2 movers) costs between $80 to $100 an hour plus an extra $25-$50 for an additional mover. Cross country/ interstate (over 100 miles) costs between $2,000 to $5,000 per move and an additional $0.50 per pound.
How Much Does it Cost to Move Across Town?
Local moves make up the vast majority of people moving each year. According to Zillow, 57% of the home buyers who also sell a home move within the same city, and 86% move within the same state. For local movers, you’ll typically pay an hourly rate that includes a truck and the services of two movers. The bigger your home, the longer your move will take. Consider these estimates from Home Advisor.
1 Bedroom Apartment – 3 to 5 hours – $200 to $500
2 Bedroom Apartment – 5 to 7 hours – $400 t0 $700
3 Bedroom House – 7 to 10 hours – $560 to $1,000
4 Bedroom House – 10+ hours – $800 to $2,000
How Far In Advance Should I Book Local Movers?
Keep in mind that most people move between May and September, so you will want to book your movers at least four weeks ahead of time. The earlier you book, the more likely you are to get the day and time that works best for you and the more likely you are to get an experienced crew. The least expensive days to move are Monday-Thursday. In the off-season (October – April), you can often book movers with only one to two weeks’ notice.
How Much Does It Cost To Move Across The Country?
While local movers typically charge by the hour, for a cross-country move you’ll likely be charged based on two key variables: weight and distance.
Before you move, the empty truck is weighed, and your mover should provide you with an “empty weight” receipt. Then, once all your belongings are loaded, they’ll weigh your truck again to help them determine your moving cost. If you have no idea how much your stuff weighs, don’t worry most people don’t. However, reputable movers will give you an estimate beforehand using average weights from homes of your size.
Simply put, the farther a moving company has to transport your belongings, the higher the bill will be. You’ll likely be charged a per-mile rate in addition to the weight-based charges. Make sure to ask if there are any additional transportation charges, like fuel or tolls.
How Far In Advance Should You Book Long-Distance Movers?
For an interstate or cross-country move, you will want to book your movers as early as possible. Ideally six to eight weeks before your move.
Get Moving
When it comes to moving, the best way to limit your costs and keep your sanity is to move quickly. The faster you’re out of your old home and into your new home, the less you’ll pay in movers, rented supplies, storage costs, and overlapping mortgage or rent payments.
