How Much Does It Cost to Hire Movers

This is a quite an important question. In fact the most important that will determine whether you hire movers or will have to wire in. The cost of moving depends on the type of the move. There are three general types of moves – local move, long distance move and commercial moves. Thus, the first factor defining your charges is the general category into which your move falls. In this article we will cover the local and interstate relocations only. There are specific fees that may apply to each one of these types of moves and determine the final cost of movers. In order to save yourself a headache, make sure you ask about all of them. After reading this article you will get the idea of the average moving costs and the common question: How much does a moving company cost.

Cost of Moving

What should you save initially – Your Money or your Health?

In most cases, you will need a moving company, yet it depends on the quantity and size of your rooms and goods. Some people who have gone through moves in the past know how to handle a room or two for a local relocation. In this case the question how much does a mover cost – is a no brainer.  However, they can’t for example handle a long distance move that involves many more phases and greater organization. If you haven’t moved before, and have a four bedroom house for instance, you should definitely hire a professional moving company regardless of the distance. Thus, you will save yourself the stress of having to organize all belongings from each room in labeled boxes, and then the grueling job of packing, loading and unloading all these boxes. Keep in mind that the overall cost of movers includes that plus a lot more – trucks, tolls, gas expenses, packing, etc. It all depends on the size of your move though. Also, in many cases it depends on the number of friends and relatives ready to commit and work diligently. Start with what type is your move so you can have the better idea about the cost of moving.

Local Moving Cost

Local moves are charged by the hour. Depends on where you live, state and metro area, the rates and the overall local moving cost will vary. You will be charged an hourly rate for the time movers spent working on your move. This hourly rate applies whether the movers are wrapping, loading or driving from point A to point B. Travel fee may also apply depending on the pickup location. In many cases, this fee could be negotiated between the moving company and the client depending on the travel distance to the customer moving location. You may also be charged for packing materials. Make sure you keep this in mind when you speak with them to estimate moving costs. The average cost of movers for 2 men and a truck is between $90 and $120 per hour. If you decide to hire movers for labor only (without a moving truck), the professionals will charge about $60 to $80 per hour of labor. You can use our local moving cost calculator form on the top of the page as a cost estimator about the entire move.

Long Distance Moving Costs

Long distance costs are by the weight or per cubic foot of your inventory. Many moving companies will charge based on both. The best way for you would be to get an in-house estimate because this way a company can give you a binding quote. However, when you list all your goods to the smallest detail, the sales consultant will give you an accurate quote even on the phone. Long distance moves are on a case by cases basis because it depends on many factors. If you require a full packing, you may get a discount for the overall price. Sometimes the moving company may give you a better price if you wait to be loaded with other peoples’ items going in the same direction. Packing materials and labor cost may also apply.

How much do movers cost interstate

I already mentioned that the best way to estimate long distance moving costs and how much does it cost for the complete relocation is by contacting professional moving companies but you should also request a binding moving estimate. Having a binding estimate will guarantee you that the final long distance moving costs will not exceed more than 10% of the estimated amount. This will prevent moving scams. Just to have an example, relocating 200 miles away will cost you about $0.50 per lbs. The moving costs per lbs may vary depending on the distance if you are moving state to state to the neighboring state or a doing a cross country move.

How is the moving weight determined

Here is a small chart about the average moving weights based on the apartment/house size:

• A studio weights about 1800 lbs.
• 1 Bedroom apartment weights about 2200 lbs to 3200 lbs.
• 2 Bedrooms may weight around 5000 lbs to 6000 lbs.
• 3 Bedroom houses will go up to 9000 lbs.
• 4 Bedroom or larger houses may have household items worth of 11000 lbs or more.

Please note that your belongings may weigh more or less than these estimates. You can ask the moving company if you can observe and be present when the moving truck is being weighed on a certified scale.

You can get your move calculated fast and easy here – use our free moving cost calculator.

If you still can’t find the answer to your “How much does a moving company cost?” question, get your free moving quote directly from above.

Moving is not that fun, but it can be done professionally and without hassle when you hire a moving company. Think about the size of your move and all other details in order to decide whether you will hire a professional moving company. Budget and time constraints are major factors, however if you haven’t moved before think about what’s more valuable to you – your money or your health.

Want more information. See these great related posts:

Average moving costs (for local or interstate moves).
Types of Moving Insurance and Rates (types, insurance rates and companies).

Author: Vasilka Atanasovaon July 23, 2011
An expert contributor to My Moving Reviews.