Move Details
~$200
~$150
~$500
varies
~$150/mo
~$100
~$200
~$20/mover/day
Your Total Moving Cost
Estimated Total Cost
$0
Why Moving Always Costs More Than You Think
Most moving cost estimates only include the mover's quote — but that's typically just 50-60% of your real total cost. Deposits for your new place, insurance, packing supplies, utility setup fees, and tips for movers add up fast and are rarely included in the initial quote you get.
This calculator includes the most commonly forgotten costs, flagged above, so you can budget accurately before you commit to a moving date. As a rule of thumb, add a 15-20% buffer on top of any total for unexpected costs that come up during the move.
How to Get an Accurate Mover Quote
- Get an in-person or video estimate, not just a phone quote — movers need to see your actual belongings to quote accurately.
- Ask if the quote is binding or non-binding — binding quotes guarantee the price won't increase, while non-binding estimates can change based on final weight/volume.
- Get quotes from at least 3 companies — moving costs can vary 30-50% between companies for the same job.
- Verify the company is properly licensed — for interstate moves, check the company's USDOT number on the FMCSA website to avoid rogue movers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it cheaper to move myself with a rental truck? ▼
Often yes, in pure dollar terms — a DIY move with a rental truck typically costs 40-60% less than hiring full-service movers. The tradeoff is your own time, physical labor, and risk of damage to belongings without professional handling or insurance coverage.
How much should I tip movers? ▼
A common guideline is $4-5 per hour per mover for a local move, or $20-30 per mover per day for long-distance moves, adjusted based on service quality and job difficulty (stairs, heavy furniture, etc.). Tipping is optional but customary and appreciated.
Does moving insurance from movers cover everything? ▼
Basic "released value protection" offered by movers (often included free) only covers a small amount per pound of damaged items — frequently far less than actual replacement value. Full-value protection costs extra but provides much more realistic coverage for valuable items.