The cost of moving has soared in recent years, catching many people by surprise. Whether it’s a local move or a cross-country relocation, things can get expensive quickly. And with costs rising, how can individuals and families plan their moves without breaking the bank?
The Average Cost of Moving
It doesn’t matter how you slice it – moving isn’t cheap. According to the most recent data available, a local move typically costs between $882 – $2,547. This figure includes the cost of a truck rental and two professional movers. The national average to hire a local mover is $1,702.
Now, if you’re moving across a state border (or anywhere 100 miles or more away from your current home), it’s going to run you a national average of $4,651, with a typical range between $2,462 and $6,874 depending on the size and distance of the move.
If you’re moving internationally, well, it gets expensive pretty quickly. While it’s highly dependent on the amount of stuff you’re moving and where you’re moving to, averages range from $1,500 to $12,000.
In addition to moving actual freight, you also have to consider unique relocation costs such as visa and immigration fees, moving insurance, customs and tariff fees, personal transportation, and setup costs in the new country.
Most moves are not going to be international. Instead, they’re going to be within the same country (and usually within a 100-mile radius). Having said that, here are some average cost breakdowns based on the distance of the move and the number of bedrooms:
- 250-mile move: For a one-bedroom house, you’re looking at $750 to $1,500. For a two or three-bedroom house, $1,000 to $1,750. And for four-plus bedrooms, $1,500 to $2,500.
- 1,000-mile move: One-bedroom house, $1,500 to $3,000; two to three-bedroom house, $2,000 to $8,000; four-plus bedrooms, $4,000 to $10,000.
- 2,500-mile move: If you’ve got a bedroom house, $2,750 to $6,000. For two to three bedrooms, $3,250 to $8,000. For four-plus bedrooms, $5,000 to $15,000.
How to Save on Moving Costs
Ask anyone who is moving and they’ll tell you that they’re open to the idea of learning about easy to save on moving costs. Whether it’s a local one-bedroom move or a cross-country five-bedroom move, the dollars and cents add up. Here are several suggestions:
- Declutter First: Before you start packing, get rid of things you no longer need or use. Sell items if you can, or donate them. The less you have to move, the cheaper it will be. (There’s no better time than a move to start minimizing your possessions.)
- Compare Prices: Don’t just go with the first moving company you find. Get quotes from several companies to see who offers the best deal. And if you’re renting a truck, compare those prices, too. Better yet, find a company that allows you to use a portable storage unit. This lets you save money by packing and loading yourself. Then, the moving company picks up the storage unit and drops it off at the new location.
- Do It Yourself: If you’re up for it, consider moving yourself, especially if it’s a local move. It’s more work, but it can save you a lot of money. Just make sure to ask friends or family for help. (You’ll want to provide plenty of pizza and beer…for after the packing and unloading, of course.)
- Use Free Packing Supplies: Instead of buying all new boxes and packing materials, see if you can get some for free. Check with local stores or ask friends who have recently moved if they have supplies they no longer need.
- Choose the Right Time: Believe it or not, there’s a “moving season.” Prices can be higher during the summer and at the end of the month. If possible, plan your move for a less busy time to get better rates. The weeks between Thanksgiving and New Year’s are usually the slowest. So if you’re brave enough to schedule a move during this season, you may be able to save money.
- Be Prepared: Avoid last-minute expenses by planning as much as you can in advance. Know the layout of your new place to ensure your furniture fits, which can save you from unexpected storage or additional moving costs.
Get Control Over Your Moving Costs
Moving is a big life event – one that can be stressful and expensive (if you aren’t careful). But with the right planning, you can lower the stress and costs associated with a move.
Use some of the tips highlighted above to get started!
