Moving an apartment typically costs between $1,000 and $4,800, depending on factors like distance, the size of your home, and whether you hire professional movers. Local moves (under 100 miles) generally range from $200 to $1,500, while long-distance moves (over 1,000 miles) can exceed $4,000.
If you’re on a budget, moving costs can feel overwhelming, but there are ways to cut expenses without sacrificing convenience. DIY moves, downsizing, and moving off-season are some of the best ways to lower costs.
In this guide, we’ll break down moving costs, price factors, and money-saving tips, so you can plan your move without unnecessary expenses.
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The Average Cost of Moving
The average cost of moving varies based on factors like distance, the size of your apartment, and whether you hire professional movers. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Local moves (under 100 miles): $200–$1,500
- Hiring movers: $25–$50 per hour per mover
- Renting a truck: $170+ plus mileage fees
- Moving container: Around $1,500
- Long-distance moves (over 1,000 miles): $1,000–$4,800+
- Full-service movers: $2,000–$10,000 (based on weight and distance)
- Truck rental: $2,080+ (including mileage and fuel)
- Moving container: $3,000+
Key Cost Factors:
- Weight & Volume: The more belongings you have, the more you pay. Downsizing saves money.
- Distance: Longer moves cost more due to fuel, tolls, and driver time.
- DIY vs. Professional Help: Hiring movers is convenient but costly; renting a truck is cheaper but requires more work.
- Time of Year: Moving in summer or on weekends is more expensive due to high demand.
- Packing & Specialty Items: Extra services like packing or moving large items (pianos, pool tables) increase costs.
Should You Hire a Moving Company?
Deciding whether to hire professional movers or handle the move yourself depends on your budget, physical ability, and time constraints. A DIY move is cheaper, but it requires heavy lifting, renting a truck, and coordinating logistics. Hiring movers is more convenient but comes at a higher cost.
Ask yourself:
- Can you lift and transport heavy furniture and boxes? If not, do you have friends or family to help?
- Do you have time to pack and move everything yourself? If you’re on a tight schedule, movers can speed up the process.
- Are you comfortable renting and driving a moving truck? Larger trucks can be tricky to handle, especially for long distances.
- Will moving insurance be necessary? Professional movers often include liability coverage, while DIY moves may require separate insurance.
- What’s the access like at your new place? If you’re moving into a high-rise apartment or tight urban space, professional movers may be the best option.
When to hire movers:
- You have heavy furniture or fragile items that require careful handling.
- You’re moving long-distance and want to avoid the hassle of driving a large truck.
- You don’t have time to pack and transport everything yourself.
When a DIY move makes sense:
- You’re moving locally and can make multiple trips with a truck or van.
- You have help from friends or family who can assist with packing and loading.
- You want to save money and are comfortable handling the logistics yourself.
Whichever option you choose, compare quotes from multiple movers or rental companies to get the best deal.
Practical Ways to Save on Moving Costs
Declutter Before You Pack
The fewer items you move, the less you pay—whether you’re hiring movers or renting a truck. Sell, donate, or toss anything you don’t need. Holding a yard sale or selling items online can even help offset moving costs.
Pack Yourself
Professional packing services can add hundreds of dollars to your bill. Save money by packing your own boxes and using free packing materials from local stores, Facebook Marketplace, or community groups.
Compare Moving Quotes
Get at least three estimates from different moving companies. Use the lowest bid as leverage to negotiate a better deal with your preferred mover. Many companies will price-match or offer discounts.
Choose a Cheaper Moving Date
Avoid moving in the summer (May–September) or on weekends when demand is highest. Moving on a weekday in winter can save you 10–30% on moving costs.
Rent a Truck Instead of Hiring Movers
A DIY move using a rental truck can cost 50% less than hiring professional movers. Just factor in gas, mileage fees, and any necessary moving equipment like dollies and furniture pads.
Use a Moving Container for Long-Distance Moves
If you’re moving across the country, renting a moving container (like PODS) is often cheaper than a full-service move. Prices start at $3,000, but you can pack at your own pace and avoid driving a large truck.
Check for Employer Relocation Assistance
If you’re moving for work, ask if your employer offers relocation assistance. Some companies will reimburse moving costs, including truck rentals, lodging, and meals.
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Rent an Apartment with Easy Access
Choosing an apartment with ground-level access and nearby parking can make moving much easier and cheaper. If you’re moving into a high-rise building, check if there’s a freight elevator or designated moving area—some buildings charge fees for reserving elevators or require permits for moving trucks.
For first-floor apartments or units with direct street access, movers can load and unload faster, which reduces labor costs. If you have a choice, look for an apartment with convenient parking to avoid long carry fees or extra moving time. Before moving day, confirm where movers can park to prevent unexpected charges.
Get the Best Deal by Comparing Moving Quotes
Don’t settle for the first moving estimate—compare at least three quotes from different companies to find the best deal. Whether you’re renting a truck, hiring movers, or using a moving container, prices can vary widely.
Instead of automatically choosing the cheapest option, use lower quotes as leverage. Call your preferred company and ask if they can match or beat a competitor’s price. Even if they can’t, they may offer discounts, free packing materials, or better insurance coverage to win your business.
Pro Tip: Moving companies often have lower rates on weekdays or during off-peak seasons. Ask about flexible pricing to save even more.
Notify Your Landlord to Avoid Extra Charges
Most leases require at least 30 days’ notice before you move out. If you don’t provide written notice in time, your landlord may charge you for another full month’s rent.
To avoid issues, check your lease agreement for the exact notice period and how to submit it—some landlords require written notice by certified mail or email. Send your notice early and confirm receipt to ensure you don’t get stuck paying for extra time you don’t need.
Save Money by Moving During Off-Peak Times
Summer is the most expensive time to move because demand is high, especially from families relocating before the school year. If possible, schedule your move in the fall or winter when rates are lower.
You can also save by moving on a weekday instead of a weekend. Movers charge more on Fridays and weekends due to higher demand. Mid-month moves also tend to be cheaper than moving at the beginning or end of the month when most leases turn over.
By being flexible with your moving date, you can negotiate better rates and avoid peak-season pricing.
Final Thoughts
Moving to a new apartment is an exciting fresh start, but it can also be stressful and costly. The key to a smooth, budget-friendly move is planning ahead and making smart choices.
Decide which tasks you can handle yourself, like packing and renting a truck, and which services—such as hiring movers—are worth the extra cost. Compare multiple moving quotes to get the best deal, and look for ways to cut expenses, like moving during off-peak times or decluttering before you pack.
With the right strategy, you can reduce moving costs and settle into your new home with less stress.
The panel below displays some of the best movers in the nation to help you get started:
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
