A local move costs $25–$50 per mover per hour for labor-only, or $80–$150 per hour for a full-service 2-person crew with a truck. Long-distance moves are priced at $0.40–$0.70 per pound per 1,000 miles. Here is the exact formula movers use so you can estimate your job before calling anyone.
What is the labor formula for local moves?
Local moves are billed by crew time. The formula is simple:
Crew size × hourly rate × hours on the job = labor cost.
A 2-person crew at $130/hr that works 5 hours costs $650 plus a travel fee (usually one extra hour). Want the math done for you? Use the moving cost calculator to plug in your home size and get an instant range.
| Home size | Crew size | Typical hours | Local cost | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Studio / 1BR | 2 movers | 3–5 hrs | $300–$700 | | 2BR | 3 movers | 5–7 hrs | $600–$1,200 | | 3BR | 3–4 movers | 7–10 hrs | $900–$1,800 | | 4BR+ | 4–5 movers | 10+ hrs | $1,500–$3,000 |
What is the weight formula for long-distance moves?
Interstate carriers weigh your shipment on a certified scale (empty truck, then loaded). Multiply your shipment weight by the per-pound-per-mile rate. A 5,000 lb shipment moving 1,500 miles at $0.55 per pound per 1,000 miles works out to about $4,125 before fees.
How does the distance multiplier work?
Longer hauls cost more per mile up to a point, then taper. The first 1,000 miles carry the highest per-mile rate; rates flatten on coast-to-coast routes. Seasonal demand on busy corridors also raises prices — see our US long-distance moving routes cost guide for route-specific pricing.
What hidden fees should I add to my estimate?
Roughly 30% of moving complaints involve surprise charges. Add these to any estimate:
- Stairs: $50–$150 per flight
- Long carry: $75–$150 per 75 feet beyond standard
- Shuttle service: $150–$500 when a full truck can't reach your door
- Packing materials: marked up 200–400% over retail
- Specialty items: pianos, safes, hot tubs (flat surcharges)
For the complete list, read our hidden moving fees guide.
What should three real quotes look like?
A legitimate quote is itemized, references a binding or binding-not-to-exceed estimate, and lists the carrier's USDOT number. If a quote is suspiciously low or comes without an in-home or video survey, treat it as a red flag.
Estimate first, then compare verified household moving quotes and contact us for competing bids.