Moving Cost Calculator

Calculating moving costs should not feel random. Most moving companies calculate pricing using the same core inputs, but the formula changes depending on the type of move. Regardless of what type of service your move requires, understanding what goes into your moving cost estimate helps you make the right decision. For example, a local move is usually billed by the hour and depends heavily on labor time, travel time, and access conditions. A long distance move is typically priced as a flat rate, where inventory, mileage, and service level matter most. If you are moving across state lines, you are booking an interstate move, which often involves more planning and logistics than an in state move. If you are relocating coast to coast or several states away, that is a cross country move, and pricing is driven by distance, shipment size, and the delivery timeline you choose.

Most professional moves fall into these general ranges:

● Local moves: typically $500–$3,500+ (often billed hourly)
● Typical hourly rate: $140–$180 per hour for 2 movers (common 2–3 hour minimum, plus travel time)
● Long-distance moves: typically $1,500–$8,500+ depending on home size, distance, and services

If you are comparing quotes, these ranges help you spot pricing that is unusually low or unusually high, and understand what is driving the difference.

A local move is typically a relocation within the same metro area and often under 50 to 100 miles. Local moves are usually billed by the hour. Across the industry, labor commonly falls around $30 to $50 per mover per hour when you are pricing labor only. When a moving truck is included, which is the most common setup, that often lands closer to $70 to $90 per mover per hour depending on the crew size, equipment, and overall scope of the move.

Your hourly rate depends on how many movers and trucks your move requires. More inventory, heavier items, stairs, long carries, and access challenges can increase the crew size and the total time. Most hourly local pricing includes the movers, the moving truck, fuel for short distances, and basic furniture protection such as pads, tape, and shrink wrap. Many moving companies have a 3 to 4 hour minimum charge. Some moves also include a travel fee billed at the same hourly rate to cover the drive to your pickup address and the return to the mover’s headquarters after delivery.

Long distance moves are typically 100 miles or more, and many long distance moves cross state lines. Because the truck and crew are committed for multiple days, pricing is usually built as a flat rate instead of an hourly rate. The two biggest drivers of cost are the distance and the size of your shipment. More inventory means more space on the truck, more labor, and more handling, which is why volume and weight matter as much as miles.

With a binding, all inclusive long distance quote, you are getting one total price based on the inventory provided during your virtual or onsite estimate and the service level you select. This type of quote typically includes professional loading and unloading, transportation logistics, and standard furniture protection for the items listed on your estimate, such as pads and stretch wrap. Binding pricing is popular for long distance moves because it protects you from surprises tied to traffic, route delays, or slower than expected driving conditions.

Even with flat rate pricing, certain factors can change the final cost if they are not included in the original inventory or plan. Common drivers include adding items after the estimate, packing services, storage needs, difficult access that requires additional labor or equipment, long carries, stairs, shuttle requirements when a tractor trailer cannot access the address, and delivery timing needs that require an expedited or dedicated truck option. The simplest way to keep your quote accurate is to share a complete inventory upfront and flag any access challenges before moving day.

Moving costs are based on a few core inputs. The bigger your move is, the farther it goes, and the more complex the access and service level are, the higher the total usually is. The goal of a quote is to match real logistics so you can budget with confidence.

Most moving quotes are built from the same fundamentals:

● Move size and inventory, including rooms, bulky items, and total volume
● Distance, including local travel time or interstate mileage
● Access conditions, including stairs, elevators, long carries, parking limits, and shuttle needs
● Service level, including packing, unpacking, crating, storage, and special handling
● Timing, including weekends, end of month, and May through September peak demand

Understanding what’s covered in your quote helps you compare moving companies and prevents unwelcome surprises on moving day. At Poseidon Moving, we build value into every estimate—ensuring essential moving services are included, with no hidden fees.

Included with every move:

● Our movers will load and unload all items included in your inventory list. Larger or specialty items may require additional manpower, equipment, or fees—please ensure these are disclosed in advance.

● Furniture protection: Standard protection is included for all large furniture. We wrap items in heavy-duty moving blankets and secure them with shrink wrap and tape to prevent damage during transit.

● Transportation, tolls, fuel, and mileage: All standard transportation-related costs are built into your quote—no fuel surcharges, toll surprises, or mileage add-ons.

● Disassembly and reassembly: Beds, tables, and other furniture are disassembled at pickup and reassembled at delivery—ensuring safe and efficient handling. Please note, disassembly is provided for items listed in your inventory and must be requested in advance.

● Basic liability coverage: All moves include our standard protection at no additional charge. You can also upgrade to full-value or transit damage protection for added peace of mind.

Important: All services must be requested in advance and reflected in your Poseidon Moving account. Your updated estimate email serves as confirmation. Only documented items and services will be honored on moving day.

Several variables can influence the final cost of your move—some controllable, others based on logistics. Understanding these factors can help you budget smarter, make strategic choices, and avoid unexpected fees.

● Moving date or time of year: Moves during peak season (May–September), holidays, or end-of-month dates are typically more expensive due to high demand. Mid-week, off-season moves often offer lower rates and more flexibility.
● Size of your move: The more items you’re moving, the more time, labor, and space are required—whether it’s in terms of boxes, furniture, or overall inventory weight.
● Complexity of the move: Narrow hallways, multiple flights of stairs, lack of elevator access, or long carries from the truck to your front door can increase labor time and cost.
● Packing services: Choosing full or partial packing adds to the total price but can save you time and ensure your items are safely secured using professional materials.
● Specialty packing materials: Items like TV boxes, mirror/picture boxes, wardrobe boxes, mattress covers, and other protective materials may be necessary for fragile or oversized pieces and are not included unless requested in advance.
● Fragile or high-value items: Artwork, glass/marble furniture, antiques, or similar items often require custom crating or special handling, which can affect your quote.
● Heavy or oversized items: Pianos, gym equipment, solid wood pieces, safes, or any item over 150 lbs may require extra manpower, tools, or precautions.
● TV dismount or appliance disconnects: These are considered add-on services and must be requested in advance to ensure proper tools and staffing.
● Junk removal: If you’re decluttering before the move, junk removal can be added to your service plan and is typically priced by volume.
● Floor protection requirements: Some buildings require protective floor coverings. If not supplied by the client, this service may be added to your quote.
● Moving permits: Some cities or buildings require parking or elevator permits. If not disclosed in advance, this could delay your move or result in additional charges.
● Storage: If your belongings need to be stored before or after delivery, we offer both short- and long-term storage options, billed based on volume and time.
● Valuation and insurance coverage: Basic liability protection is included, but you can upgrade to full-value protection or transit damage protection depending on your needs.
● Details of your move: Your exact origin and destination addresses, building type, and access conditions all influence the final rate.
● Extra stops: If your move includes pickup or delivery at multiple addresses (e.g., a storage unit or second home), additional time and coordination will be needed.
● Express delivery or dedicated truck service: If you require a guaranteed delivery date or exclusive use of a moving truck, this can be arranged as a premium service.
● Delays and redelivery: Delays caused by scheduling conflicts, access issues, or the client not being present may result in additional charges. Redelivery or overnight storage due to these circumstances can increase your final cost.
● Tipping: While not required, tipping is a customary gesture of appreciation. Many clients choose to tip movers based on service quality and move size.

Looking to save on your move? With a few smart choices and early planning, you can significantly reduce your final bill. From packing yourself to avoiding peak moving dates, small decisions can add up to big savings—especially on long-distance or large household moves.

Moving doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are effective ways to cut your costs without sacrificing quality:

● Declutter before you pack: The fewer items you move, the lower your cost—plain and simple. Reducing your inventory helps shrink the number of boxes, the truck space needed, and the time spent loading and unloading. Go room by room and donate, sell, or recycle anything you no longer use. Not only will it lower your bill, but you’ll enjoy a cleaner, more organized start in your new home.
● Book early: The earlier you schedule your move, the better your rates and time slot options will be. Movers tend to fill up quickly during peak periods, and last-minute bookings often come at a premium. Booking at least 4–6 weeks in advance may even unlock early-bird discounts or route optimization perks. Plus, you’ll avoid the stress of scrambling for availability.
● Be flexible with timing: If you can move mid-week or during off-peak months (typically October through April), you’ll often get better pricing. Most people move on weekends or near the end of the month, which drives up demand and cost. Shifting your move date by just a few days could reduce your rate significantly. Ask your moving company if flexible delivery windows could also save you money.
● Do some packing yourself: Full-service packing is convenient but can add hundreds to your total. By packing your non-fragile items—like books, clothes, and décor—you can cut labor time and supply costs. Make sure to label boxes clearly and avoid overloading them. If you’re not sure how to pack fragile items, leave those to the pros and focus on what you can do safely.
● Disassemble furniture: Taking apart beds, tables, and shelving before your movers arrive can reduce time spent on-site, which directly lowers labor costs. Keep all hardware in labeled bags and consider photographing complex items for easier reassembly. It’s a small task with a big payoff, especially if you have several bulky pieces that take time to break down. Just be sure you’re comfortable doing it properly to avoid damage.
● Avoid peak season: Moving between May and September or at the end of the month? Expect higher prices and less availability. If your move date is flexible, shifting it to mid-month or the off-season can save you hundreds. You’ll also benefit from more personalized service when movers aren’t stretched thin across dozens of other jobs.
● Use your own supplies: Purchasing packing supplies from your mover is convenient but can add up. Instead, source free or low-cost boxes from local stores, friends, or online marketplaces. Reuse containers, towels, and blankets to protect fragile items. Just make sure the boxes are sturdy and not overfilled to avoid breakage during transport.
● Ask about discounts: Some companies offer discounts for students, seniors, military personnel, or returning customers. Others may price-match or reward referrals. Don’t hesitate to ask what promotions or deals are available—you might qualify for savings you didn’t expect. It’s always worth checking.