Moving Costs by Distance
How distance affects your moving costs: local vs. intrastate vs. cross-country. Complete breakdown by mileage tier with real-world price examples.
Local & InterstateMoving Costs by State
State-by-state moving cost comparison. See which states cost the most to move from/to and why rates vary by location.
State ComparisonHow to Hire Movers (Without Getting Scammed)
Red flags to watch for, how to verify a mover's license, understanding binding vs. non-binding estimates, and insurance options explained.
Consumer ProtectionPacking Tips to Save Time & Money
Professional packing strategies to protect your belongings, save money on materials, and reduce the total weight of your move.
DIY PackingMoving Budget Checklist
1. Moving company fee
The largest expense. Get 3-5 quotes and negotiate. Ask about binding estimates to lock in the price.
2. Packing supplies
Budget $100-$400 for boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and mattress bags. Free sources: liquor stores, bookstores, Nextdoor, Craigslist.
3. Valuation coverage / insurance
Basic coverage (60¢/lb) is usually free but inadequate. Full value protection costs 1-2% of declared value. Check if your homeowners/renters insurance covers transit.
4. Travel expenses
For interstate moves: gas, hotels, meals during transit. Budget $200-$800 depending on distance and family size.
5. Utility setup fees
Deposits and connection fees for electricity, gas, internet, and water at your new home. Budget $200-$500.
6. Cleaning costs
Professional move-out cleaning: $150-$400. Or DIY with supplies ($30-$60). Some leases require professional cleaning.
7. Tips for movers
Standard: $4-$5 per mover per hour. Budget $40-$160 for a typical move. Cash is appreciated.
8. Emergency fund
Set aside 10-15% of your moving budget for unexpected costs — last-minute supplies, extra hours, storage fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the biggest moving expense?
The moving company fee is almost always the largest cost. Get 3-5 quotes and negotiate, and ask for binding estimates to lock in the price. Our How to Hire Movers guide covers red flags and how to verify a mover's license.
Do I need moving insurance?
Basic valuation coverage (about 60 cents per pound) is usually free but inadequate for high-value items. Full value protection typically costs 1-2% of declared value. Check whether your homeowners or renters insurance covers items in transit.
How can I reduce my moving costs?
Three high-impact levers: pack yourself using free or cheap supplies (see Packing Tips), plan the route and mileage budget (see Moving Costs by Distance), and avoid mover scams by verifying licenses before booking.
How should I budget for a move?
Our Moving Budget Checklist above covers the eight major line items: moving company fee, packing supplies, valuation coverage, travel expenses, utility setup fees, cleaning costs, tips, and an emergency fund of 10-15% of the total.