How Much Does a Mover Cost?

Hiring movers can save you time and stress, but costs vary widely depending on how much you’re moving, how far, and what services you choose. Here’s a detailed look at hourly rates, package pricing, what’s included, and how to keep costs down.

Key takeaways

• Average mover cost: Most moving companies charge $70–$200 per hour for two movers and a truck. Each additional mover usually adds about $80 per hour.
  
  
• Labor-only helpers are cheaper: Platforms like TaskRabbit or Dolly often start around $40–$60 per hour per mover if you provide the truck yourself.
  
  
• Home size matters: Expect to pay $210–$800 for a 1-bedroom, $600–$1,680 for a 2-bedroom, and $3,100–$5,000+ for a 5-bedroom move.
  
  
• Service level affects price: Full-service movers (packing, truck, insurance, setup) cost the most, while DIY or labor-only crews save money but require more effort on your part.

Mover prices: How much does a mover cost?

On average, movers charge between $70–$200 per hour for two movers and a truck. The exact rate depends on your location, the size of your home, the number of movers required, and whether you’re moving locally or long distance.

Some budget-friendly, labor-only helpers may start around $40–$60 per hour per mover, while premium full-service companies can charge $150–$200+ per hour for insured crews with trucks and equipment included.

To give you a better idea, here’s how hourly pricing breaks down by platform and company type:

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Calculating the cost of movers

The total cost of your move depends on your crew size, how long the job takes, and whether you add extras like long-distance transport, packing, or specialty item handling. Use this quick calculator table to get a rough estimate.

How to calculate your total moving cost

1. Start with the base rate: $70–$200 per hour for two movers and a truck.
   
   
2. Add extra movers: Most homes need more than two movers.
   
   
   
   • 1 bedroom → 2 movers, ~3–4 hours
     
     
   • 2 bedroom → 3 movers, ~4–6 hours
     
     
   • 3–4 bedrooms → 4 movers, ~6–10 hours
     
     
   • 5 bedrooms → 5 movers, ~10–12 hours
     Add about $80/hr for each mover beyond the first two.
     
     
3. Multiply by hours: Use the time ranges above as your baseline.
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4. ‍Add extras: Include charges for long-distance, specialty items, packing, or storage.

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Cost by service type

Different types of movers charge differently depending on what’s included. Labor-only helpers are the cheapest, but you’ll need to provide a truck. Full-service movers cost more but include the vehicle, packing materials, and insurance.

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Cost by house size 

The larger your home, the more movers and hours you’ll need. Here’s a breakdown based on typical crew sizes and hours:

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Cost by distance

Local moves are usually charged hourly, while long-distance moves switch to weight and mileage pricing.

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Cost by specialty item 

Bulky or delicate items often add to your total cost because they require extra care, equipment, or movers.

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Hourly rates for the top 5 mover platforms

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HireAHelper

HireAHelper is a national marketplace that connects you with both labor-only helpers and full-service moving crews. You can compare reviews, prices, and availability before booking.

• Typical hourly rate: $70–$200 per hour for two movers and a truck for a full moving service.
  
  
• Labor only: Labor-only options (just helpers, no truck) are usually on the lower end,  usually around $40–$80 per mover, per hour.
  

Dolly

Dolly is an on-demand app designed for small moves, furniture delivery, or load-and-go jobs. It’s great if you only need a couple of items moved, are moving between apartments, or want fast, same-day help.

• Typical one-bedroom apartment move: Around $389 for two movers and a pickup truck (extra time for extra trips won’t cost extra).
  
  
• Labor-only help: Starts at $56 per hour (minimum two hours) if you provide the vehicle.
  

TaskRabbit

TaskRabbit is a gig-based platform where independent Taskers set their own rates. You can hire them for labor-only jobs like packing, loading, or unloading, or for full-service moves where a Tasker provides a truck.

• Typical hourly rate: $80–$150 per hour for two movers and a truck.
  
  
• Labor-only help: Starts at about $40–$60 per hour per Tasker if you provide your own truck.
  
  
• Because pricing is set individually, rates vary by city, job size, and equipment included. Always check whether the quote covers just labor, or labor plus vehicle.

Angi

Angi is a home-services marketplace that connects you with vetted professional movers. It’s widely used for full-service moving companies, both local and long-distance.

• Typical hourly rate: $60–$200 per hour for two movers and a truck.
  
  
• Labor only: You’re looking at around $25-$50 per hour per worker for labor only, no truck.
  
  
• Exact pricing depends on the mover you choose. Rates shift by region, the size of your move, and whether a truck is included, so confirm what’s covered before booking.

Thumbtack

Thumbtack is a services marketplace where you can request bids from multiple local moving companies. It’s especially useful for larger or full-service moves.

• Typical hourly rate: $108–$125 per hour for two movers and a truck
  
  
• Labor only: $100–$125 per hour for two movers (no truck)
  
  
• Pricing on Thumbtack varies by mover. Many set flat hourly rates, while others adjust based on distance, job size, or equipment provided.

How many hours will it take to move house?

The cost of hiring movers depends on how long the job takes and how many people are on the crew. Most moving companies charge $70–$200 per hour for two movers and a truck, with about $80 per hour added for each extra mover. Larger homes with more furniture and boxes usually require bigger crews and longer hours, so costs increase with size.

Here’s a breakdown of estimated labor costs for typical home sizes:

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What’s included in a moving service?

A full moving service typically covers everything from carefully packing your belongings to unloading them at your new home. A standard moving service will load your boxes and disassembled furniture into their truck, and unload it on the other side. Here’s what you can usually expect:

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Packing services

Premium full-service movers can handle all the packing for you, including bringing boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and paper. They’ll secure fragile items, label each box with its contents and destination room, and make unpacking far easier.

Assembly and disassembly

Premium full-service crews arrive with the tools to take apart furniture before the move and reassemble it afterward. This is especially helpful for bulky items like beds and dining tables that would otherwise eat up space or risk damage in transit.

Loading and unloading

Your movers will do the heavy lifting, carrying boxes and furniture into the truck and unloading them at your new place. Many companies will also set items in the rooms you choose, saving you time and hassle.

Transportation

With a full-service move, the company provides the truck and drives it to your new home. Movers know how to plan routes around traffic and road conditions, so your belongings arrive safely and on time.

Insurance coverage

Reputable moving companies include some level of insurance to protect your belongings. Basic coverage is often free, while upgraded plans provide broader protection if something is lost or damaged.

Cleanup and disposal 

After the move, some companies will collect and dispose of packing materials like boxes, tape, and bubble wrap. This service helps keep your new home clutter-free right from day one.

The cost of DIY vs. professional movers

DIY moving can save you money, but it requires significant time, effort, and planning. You’ll need to rent a truck, gather packing supplies, and recruit friends or family to help with the heavy lifting. For small apartments or short local moves, DIY is often the most affordable route.

Professional movers cost more upfront but save you the stress, time, and physical strain. They bring trucks, equipment, trained crews, and insurance coverage. For larger homes, long-distance moves, or if you want to avoid injury and damage, professionals are often worth the investment.

DIY moving can save you money, but it requires significant time, effort, and planning. You’ll need to rent a truck, gather packing supplies, and recruit friends or family to help with the heavy lifting. For small apartments or short local moves, DIY is often the most affordable route.

Professional movers cost more upfront but save you the stress, time, and physical strain. They bring trucks, equipment, trained crews, and insurance coverage. For larger homes, long-distance moves, or if you want to avoid injury and damage, professionals are often worth the investment.

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*Estimates vary by location, size of home, and distance.

How can I save money on a mover?

Declutter

Go through your items and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or toss. Reducing your possessions saves you money and makes packing easier. Fewer items mean you will need a smaller truck and less time from the movers, which lowers your costs. Plus, selling what you don’t need can provide extra cash to help with your moving expenses.

Move during off-peak times

Moving companies see less demand on weekdays and during the first two weeks of the month. Plan your move during off-peak times to score significant savings. Bonus points if you book your move early to lock in better rates and gain more flexibility in choosing dates. 

Prep everything

Prepare everything before moving day. Pack your items neatly and label each box clearly to keep things organized. Disassemble larger furniture pieces and inventory your belongings to ensure nothing gets lost. When you’re organized, you need less of the movers' time, which translates to savings.

DIY

You can save money by moving yourself. Rent a truck, gather friends or family to help out, and get pizza and drinks to make it more fun. If you have a small load, use personal vehicles to make several trips. 

If you don’t want to go completely DIY, you can focus only on packing into boxes, and the movers only have to transport it. 

Check for discounts

Always check for discounts when hiring movers, and don’t hesitate to ask if they’re not spelled out. Many movers are either willing to negotiate prices during quieter periods or offer special rates for students, military personnel, and senior citizens. 

Limit fragile items

Assess your fragile items to find what’s essential, and consider leaving behind or selling non-essentials. Movers often charge more for packing, transporting, and unpacking fragile items, as they take additional time and effort to ensure safe delivery. You could also move fragile items yourself in your personal car or truck to limit extra charges for fragile items.

If you do decide to take fragile items, pack them securely with plenty of bubble wrap, packing peanuts, and sturdy boxes to avoid damage.

Surcharges and extra costs to watch for

While hourly rates give you a baseline, most moving bills climb because of extra fees added on top. These surcharges cover challenges that take more time, effort, or equipment than a standard move. Some companies are upfront about them, while others only show them on the final invoice, so it’s important to ask what’s included before you sign.

For example, if movers have to carry boxes down several flights of stairs, walk a long distance from the truck to your door, or haul a piano, expect to see an extra line item. Even basic supplies like boxes and tape can add up if the movers provide them instead of you. Fuel surcharges are also common, especially if the move involves longer drives or multiple stops.

Here are the most common extras you might see on your quote:

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Is a mover worth the cost?

Hiring a mover is often worth the cost.

• Movers handle all the heavy lifting, packing, and transportation, freeing up your time for other important tasks. 
• Hiring professional movers takes the mental and physical stress of moving off your plate.
• Movers use the right materials to pack and secure your items, preventing damage during the move. Many moving companies also offer insurance options, giving you added peace of mind if something goes wrong.
• Lastly, while hiring movers may seem expensive upfront, you can save money by avoiding potential damages to your belongings, injuries, or even the costs of renting a truck and buying packing supplies.

We recommend Angi

If you’re considering hiring a mover, we recommend doing so on Angi. For the best price, you can hire professionals who have undergone background checks and are completely equipped to move your belongings. On the Angi platform, you can request quotes with the click of a button and read detailed reviews from previous customers.

If you need to postpone or cancel your online reservation, you can do so for free up to 24 hours before your planned appointment. That added convenience is helpful for people uncertain about their exact moving plans. Find your next moving company on Angi.

How much does a mover cost FAQs

How much does it cost to move a 2000 sq ft house?
A 2,000 sq ft home (about 3–4 bedrooms) usually costs $1,800–$3,500+ for a local move, depending on crew size, hours, and add-ons.

What is a reasonable amount for moving expenses?
Most people spend $1,000–$3,000 on a local move. Larger homes or long-distance moves can run much higher.

What is the average price for a local mover?
Local movers charge $70–$200 per hour for two movers and a truck, with rates varying by region and company.

What are the hidden costs of 2 hour movers?
Common extras include fuel, stairs, long carries, packing supplies, and specialty item fees. Always ask what’s included.

Is it cheaper to hire movers or do it yourself?
DIY is cheaper up front, but movers save time and reduce risk of injury, damage, and truck rental costs.

What is the cheapest day for movers?
Mid-week and mid-month are cheapest. Weekends and end-of-month dates are the most expensive.

How much does it cost for someone to move your house?
Hiring movers typically costs $600–$1,000+ for small homes and several thousand for larger or long-distance moves.

What’s the cheapest way to move a house?
Declutter, move off-peak, do your own packing, and hire labor-only help instead of full-service movers.

How do movers determine prices?
Prices are based on time, crew size, home size, distance, and extra services like packing, stairs, or storage.