How much does it cost to hire movers?

Local moves typically cost $800–$2,500 for a 2-bedroom home (2-4 hours, 2 movers at $50–$70/hr each). Long-distance moves range from $2,500–$6,000+ depending on weight and distance. Full-service moves that include packing cost more.

Is it cheaper to rent a truck and move yourself?

DIY moves are typically 50–70% cheaper than full-service movers. A truck rental may cost $200–$500 for a local move plus fuel and supplies. However, factor in your time, labor, and the risk of damage or injury.

What is a hybrid move?

A hybrid move means you pack your belongings yourself (saving packing labor costs) but hire professional movers to load, transport, and unload the truck. This typically costs 30–50% less than full-service moving while reducing physical strain.

How much should I tip movers?

Tipping movers is customary but not required. Industry standard is $20–$50 per mover for a half-day job and $50–$100 per mover for a full day. Tipping 15–20% of the labor cost is also common for excellent service.

Moving Cost Calculator

Estimate moving costs for local and long-distance moves. Compare DIY truck rental, hybrid, and full-service movers. Includes itemized breakdown with packing, storage, tips, and specialty items.

Home Size

Distance

miles

Move Type

Estimated Total Cost

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Low Estimate —

High Estimate —

Move Type —

Extended More scenarios, charts & detailed breakdown ▾

Home Size

Estimated Hours

hours

Crew Size

Hourly Rate per Mover

/hr

Labor Cost

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Truck Fee (est.) —

Total Estimated Cost —

Professional Full parameters & maximum detail ▾

Home Size

Estimated Hours

hours

Crew Size

Hourly Rate per Mover

Truck Rental Fee

Fuel Cost

Packing Materials

Specialty Items (piano, etc.)

Storage Months Needed

months

Storage Monthly Rate

Tip for Movers

Moving Costs

Labor Cost —

Truck + Fuel —

Packing & Specialty —

Additional Costs

Storage Cost —

Tip Amount —

Total

Grand Total —

How to Use This Calculator

Select your home size, enter the distance in miles, and choose your move type (DIY, hybrid, or full-service).
See an estimated cost range instantly.
Use the Local Move tab to calculate by hourly rate and crew size.
Use the Long Distance tab for weight-based estimates over 100 miles.
Use the Compare Options tab to see all three move types side by side.
Use the Professional tab for a fully itemized breakdown including packing, specialty items, storage, and tips.

Formula

Local: Labor = Hours × Crew Size × Hourly Rate + Truck Fee
Long Distance: Cost = (Weight lbs / 100) × Rate/cwt × Distance Factor + Base
DIY savings vs Full Service = Full-Service Total − DIY Total

Example

Example: 2-bedroom local move, 4 hours, 2 movers at $55/hr: Labor = $440 + Truck fee $230 = $670 total. Full-service equivalent: ~$1,400. DIY savings: ~$730.

Frequently Asked Questions

Local moves typically cost $800–$2,500 for a 2-bedroom home (2-4 hours, 2 movers at $50–$70/hr each). Long-distance moves range from $2,500–$6,000+ depending on weight and distance. Full-service moves that include packing cost more.
DIY moves are typically 50–70% cheaper than full-service movers. A truck rental may cost $200–$500 for a local move plus fuel and supplies. However, factor in your time, labor, and the risk of damage or injury.
A hybrid move means you pack your belongings yourself (saving packing labor costs) but hire professional movers to load, transport, and unload the truck. This typically costs 30–50% less than full-service moving while reducing physical strain.
Tipping movers is customary but not required. Industry standard is $20–$50 per mover for a half-day job and $50–$100 per mover for a full day. Tipping 15–20% of the labor cost is also common for excellent service.

Related Calculators

Sources & References (5) ▾

FMCSA — Protect Your Move (Interstate Moving) — Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
Census Bureau — Geographic Mobility and Migration — U.S. Census Bureau
Bureau of Labor Statistics — CPI Housing and Transportation — U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
IRS Publication 521 — Moving Expenses — Internal Revenue Service
CFPB — Financial Planning for a Move — Consumer Financial Protection Bureau