Everything you need to know before hiring a moving company.
Local moves (under 100 miles) are typically charged by the hour. Rates range from $100–$150/hr for a 2-person crew; a 3-person crew runs $150–$200/hr. A 2-bedroom local move takes 4–8 hours. Expect to pay $600–$1,200 total. Stairs, long carries, and specialty items add to the cost.
Long-distance moves are priced by weight (pounds of belongings) and distance (mileage). A cross-country move for a 2-bedroom home might weigh 5,000–7,500 lbs and cost $4,000–$8,000. Get a binding estimate based on a full inventory — not a vague quote based on 'bedrooms.'
A binding estimate guarantees the final price based on the inventory and services agreed upon. A non-binding estimate can change based on actual weight and conditions — sometimes significantly. For long-distance moves, always request a binding not-to-exceed estimate to protect yourself from unexpected charges.
Browse our directory and connect with a top-rated moving companies professional.
Find a ContractorBasic carrier liability (released value protection) covers $0.60 per pound per item — far below actual value for most items. Full value protection covers repair or replacement at current value but adds $150–$400 to your move cost. Consider whether your homeowners/renters insurance or a credit card provides supplemental moving coverage.
Verify USDOT licensing at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov. Never pay more than a 10–20% deposit. Be wary of extremely low estimates (often a bait-and-switch tactic). Get everything in writing. Avoid movers who refuse to provide a written contract or binding estimate. Read reviews on multiple platforms.
Most movers won't transport hazardous materials (gasoline, propane, paint, chemicals), perishable food, live plants (for long-distance), pets, cash, or irreplaceable documents. Check your mover's prohibited items list. Plan to transport these items yourself or dispose of them before the move.
Book 4–8 weeks in advance for local moves and 8–12 weeks for long distance. Peak season (May–September) and month-end dates fill quickly. Moving mid-month on a weekday is typically 10–20% cheaper than weekend or month-end moves. Early booking gives you more company and date choices.
A COI is a document proving a mover has active insurance coverage. Many apartment buildings and HOAs require movers to provide a COI before allowing them to use elevators and loading docks. Confirm your building's requirements before move day and request a COI from your moving company in advance.
Declutter and donate items you won't need. Pack room by room with labeled boxes (contents and destination room). Disassemble large furniture. Protect floors and walls in both homes. Charge your phone. Keep essentials (documents, medications, valuables) separate to transport yourself. Be present on moving day to direct the crew.
Ask: Are you licensed and insured? What is your USDOT number? Do you provide binding estimates? Who will perform the move (employees or subcontractors)? What are your additional charges (stairs, elevators, overtime)? What is your claims process for damage? Can you provide local references?