Budgeting for your move is a pain, but luckily, that’s what we’re here for. We’ll tell you the exact factors that go into making a move more or less expensive, and some sneaky tips on how to save.
| Distance | 1 Bedroom | 2-3 Bedrooms | 4-5 Bedrooms |
| 100 Miles | $1000 – $1500 | $1250 – $1700 | $1500 – $3400 |
| 250 Miles | $1200 – $2000 | $1500 – $3500 | $2,000 – $4800 |
| 500 Miles | $1500 – $2500 | $1800 – $5000 | $2,000 – $10,00 |
A 500 mile move can put you back $100 to $10,000, but the exact estimate comes down to what services, you need, how much you’re bringing, and the time of year you’re moving.
To get the most accurate quote, we recommend calling a moving company representative and giving him a list of your belongings. Or if that’s too much work, you can always use a moving cost calculator.
Factors that Affect Moving Price
1. Moving Date
Choosing the right day and season can really impact your moving costs. Everyone seems to move on weekends and during the summer, making those times pricier due to higher demand.
If you’re looking for a deal, try booking your move on a weekday or during the winter months. Planning ahead and securing your moving date early can also snag you a better rate. This can save you some cash to splurge on a housewarming gift or two.
2. Packing Supplies
Packing for a move can quickly become costly. There are many tools to use like boxes, tape, and stretch wrap, which can add up. To keep expenses in check, check with your moving company about the cost of supplies, or consider sourcing them yourself.
A budget-saving tip: scout out free moving boxes to cut down on costs. Local stores, community groups, or online marketplaces are the best places to find free moving boxes.
3. Professional Packing
Many moving companies provide professional packing or crating services, which can be a game-changer for guarding fragile or oddly shaped items. Crating means constructing custom wooden boxes to protect these items during transit.
These services are beneficial for long-distance moves or when your belongings need to be stored in a warehouse.
While opting for packing services will bump up your moving costs, they are a lifesaver if you’re pressed for time or wary of the risks of DIY packing. Make sure to inquire about packing prices with your moving company.
This way, you can ensure your precious items make it to your new home unscathed, whether you choose professional help or go at it alone.
4. Specialty Items
When it comes to moving specialty items, you might face additional costs. Transporting things like pianos, pool tables, safes, and artwork often incurs extra fees due to the need for specialized handling and protection. Many moving companies offer services like crating, furniture disassembly, and the use of protective materials.
However, keep in mind that there are certain items many moving companies will not handle. Appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines require special prep to disconnect and transport, and items like plants, alcohol, propane tanks, and household chemicals often fall outside the scope of what movers can take.
Always check with your moving company about their specific policies regarding these items to avoid any moving day surprises.
5. Insurance
Before deciding on additional moving insurance, check your homeowner’s insurance to see if it already covers moves. Sometimes it only protects items in transit, not as they’re moved into your new home.
If your existing insurance isn’t enough, moving companies typically offer two types of valuation options. Released-value protection is the basic level, at no extra cost, covering your belongings at about 60 cents per pound—perfect if you’re not transporting anything overly valuable.
For more comprehensive coverage, there’s full-value protection, which covers the full replacement cost of damaged items and is calculated based on the total weight of your goods. Expect to pay about 1% of the total value as a premium.
Lastly, for those with particularly valuable possessions, separate liability insurance is available from movers, combining the basic released-value protection with additional coverage to fully protect high-value items.
6. Additional Fees – Stair, Long Carry, Shuttle
Navigating staircases while carrying a sofa can quickly turn into a less-than-fun workout, especially if there’s more than one flight. Many movers won’t charge for a single flight of stairs, but brace yourself for extra fees if you’re living a few floors up.
And if there’s a lengthy trek from the moving truck to your front door (think long driveways or endless apartment hallways), you might get hit with long carry fees if the distance exceeds 75 feet.
In the city, a shuttle service is more common. They park the main truck in a nearby staging area and shuttle your belongings to your new place using a smaller vehicle. While efficient, this extra step can also mean additional fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Moving Costs Tax-Deductible?
For most of us, moving expenses are no longer tax-deductible. The exception is military personnel; if your move is due to a military order for a permanent change of station, you might be eligible to deduct those unreimbursed expenses. Don’t forget, if you’re decluttering before the move, donating items to charity can still get you a tax deduction. Just keep those donation receipts and list the current cash value of each item for a smooth claim.
What Should I Consider Before Hiring a Moving Company?
Think hard about whether the convenience of a moving company justifies the cost. If not, consider budget-friendly DIY options like truck rentals or moving containers. But if you’re not tight on budget and prefer to save your energy and time, professional movers might be worth the splurge. Weigh the pros and cons of each method carefully to decide which suits your needs and budget best.
What is the Best Way to Cut Back on Moving Costs?
Moving can be a financial strain, but trimming costs is definitely doable. Start by decluttering to reduce the load, snag any available moving discounts, choose a more affordable moving date, and pack yourself. Always get quotes from several moving companies to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Comparing prices helps you understand the market and choose an option that offers great value without compromising on service.
