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Moving Cost Calculator
Estimate the budget for a move across the four common methods: DIY truck rental, portable storage container, local full-service movers, or long-distance van line.
Total moving budget
$2,025
Move-day labor / transport
$1,445
9 hr labor at $170/hr
Packing & supplies
$580
Storage / extras
$0
Reading the number
Estimates use industry rule-of-thumb pricing for the major move types. Get 2–3 quotes for actual jobs — pricing varies a lot by city, season, and crew size.
Don't forget the soft costs: utility transfer fees, time off work, food on move day, tips for movers (typically $20–$40 per mover for a full-day move), pet boarding, and temporary lodging if there's a gap between closings.
How to Use
- Pick the move type — pricing models differ for each.
- Enter the number of bedrooms in the home you're moving from (the simplest size proxy).
- Enter the distance to your new home in miles.
- Add packing labor, supplies, and any temporary storage costs.
- Read the total — collect 2–3 actual quotes before booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are estimates accurate to the dollar?
No — estimates use industry rules of thumb. Local movers price by hour and crew size; van lines price by weight and distance; DIY scales with truck size. Always get binding quotes from 2–3 vendors before committing.
Should I tip movers?
Yes if they did a good job. Standard is $20–$40 per mover for a full-day move, more for difficult jobs (stairs, heavy items, long carry). Cash on move day, distributed by the lead.
When is DIY worth it?
Small moves (1-bedroom, short distance) can save 50%+ vs full-service. Larger moves rarely save enough to justify the time, risk of damage, and physical toll. Use full-service if you're moving 3+ bedrooms or working a normal job.
What about hidden costs?
Common surprises: stair carry fees, long carry fees (if movers can't park close), shuttle fees, fuel surcharges, packing material markups, and storage if move-in is delayed. Read the contract carefully.
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Set the new mortgage payment expectation alongside the move budget.
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Confirm the new house fits your budget after move costs.
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