Thinking about moving locally but unsure what it might cost you? You’re not alone. With millions of Americans relocating each year, one of the first questions people ask is: What’s the cost of a local move? This guide breaks down everything you need to know—from hourly labor fees to packing costs—so you can plan your next local move with clarity and confidence.
Read on to discover the cost of your local move!
How Much Do Movers Cost for a Local Move?
When researching reputable moving companies and seeking an estimate, one of the first questions you’ll likely ask is, How much do movers cost for a local move? While every situation is different, understanding average pricing and what goes into it can help you budget more accurately and avoid surprise charges on moving day.
To begin, determine whether your move qualifies as local or long-distance. As a general rule of thumb, anything beyond 60 to 100 miles from origin to destination is usually considered long-distance. Naturally, a local move will be cheaper, as you’ll avoid extra costs like fuel surcharges and pricing based on shipment weight. Many companies set a minimum flat rate of $1,000 for long-distance moves, making local relocations more cost-effective.
Once you’ve confirmed that your move is local, it’s time to break down what impacts a local moving company cost.
Average Labor Costs for Local Moves
Most movers charge hourly for labor on local jobs and typically require a minimum number of hours. Expect to pay between $25 to $60 per worker, per hour. That said, this number only reflects labor and may not include a truck, dollies, or protective materials, so always confirm with your move consultant.
Since most jobs require at least two movers, a small apartment move might run $50 to $100 per hour. Larger homes could cost upward of $200+ per hour, depending on size and complexity. These figures fall in line with typical local moving rates across the U.S.
Additional Charges That Affect Local Moving Costs
To avoid the tedious task of boxing up your entire household, many customers opt for professional packing services. However, this comes at an added cost. The average price is based on the time it takes to pack, the volume and weight of your items, and the packing materials required.
Expect to pay upwards of $60 per hour or around $1,000 for a large home. Unpacking is often a separate charge, so clarify this with your move coordinator.
Need help moving a piano, antique furniture, or delicate artwork? Specialty services may require additional labor, equipment, or even crating. These services can add anywhere from $400 to $2,000 to your total local moving costs.
Special Circumstances That Can Increase Costs
Certain scenarios may drive up your local moving company’s cost. A long carry fee may apply if the distance from your home to the moving truck is significant. If movers must climb stairs without elevator access, you may also be charged an elevator or stair fee, potentially adding $200 to $500 to your total.
When move-out and move-in dates don’t align, storage becomes necessary. Most movers offer both short- and long-term storage solutions. Transporting your belongings to and from the facility will be an additional cost. Expect to pay $200 or more per month for secure storage.
Insurance Options
Basic liability insurance is included in most moves and typically values your belongings at $0.60 per pound. However, for full-value protection, movers offer alternative insurance policies at an additional cost.
Tipping Your Movers
Want to reward great service? A 10–20% tip is customary, or roughly $5 per hour per mover. Tipping is a great way to acknowledge the hard work and professionalism of your crew. For a full breakdown, check out our blog How Much Should I Tip My Movers?
Understanding Local Moving Rates Helps You Plan Ahead
If you’ve been questioning how much do local movers cost, the answer varies—but having an understanding of average pricing and potential add-ons will help you feel confident about budgeting. From hourly labor fees to specialty item handling, being informed is the first step to a successful, stress-free move.
Whether you’re calculating the local moving company cost for a studio apartment or a four-bedroom home, always request a detailed quote and ask questions to make sure you understand what’s included. Knowing the local moving rates ahead of time is the best way to prepare for moving day.
Plan Your Local Move with Gentle Giant
Are you planning a local move? Hire professional movers like Gentle Giant to take away the stress of the move! Check out our moving checklist for more information on how to prepare and use our free estimate tool to calculate the cost of a local move. You can also explore our various services, including packing, piano moving, and more.
Need help right away? Contact Gentle Giant today to learn more about your local moving company cost and get the answers you need!