Moving to a new home is exciting but let’s be honest—it can also be really stressful. One of the biggest challenges is figuring out how to move all your stuff safely from your old place to the new one.
You usually have two choices, either move everything yourself or hire a moving company. Doing it on your own sounds cheaper but it’s a lot of hard work. It takes a toll on your body, can be exhausting and there’s always a risk of something getting broken.
Hiring professional movers takes that burden off your shoulders. They handle the heavy lifting, packing and transport. But yes, that convenience comes with a price tag.
If you’re thinking, “Why is hiring movers so expensive?”—you’re not alone. Let’s break it down and help you understand what you’re actually paying for and why the cost can add up.
Why Does Moving Cost So Much?
Moving isn’t just about loading things into a truck and driving away. There are many parts involved and all of them add to the cost.
One of the biggest reasons is time—how many hours the movers work, how long the truck is in use and even how much fuel it uses. On top of that, movers use professional tools and equipment to make sure your stuff stays safe, which also adds to the price.
Other things that affect the cost include:
- How far your old & new homes are
- How long it takes to load and unload your stuff
- How close the truck can park to your front door
- If movers need to carry items up or down stairs
When you put it all together—experienced movers, proper tools and all those small details—it’s easier to see why moving can get expensive.
How Are Professional Moves Priced?
According to Forbes, in 2024, the average cost to hire movers for a local move (like a three-bedroom home) is about $2,100. If you’re moving that same size home across the country or a long distance, the average cost jumps to around $5,500.
But that’s not all. A few other things also affect the final price, like:
- The city and state you’re moving to or from
- The size of your home
- How many movers are needed to get the job done
Basically, the bigger the move, the more help you need—and that increases the price.
When you think about all the effort, time and stress involved in moving on your own, hiring professionals often feels worth the cost.
If you’ve got a move coming up, it’s a smart idea to get a free quote first so you know what to expect.
