Planning a move? Wondering how much a moving company costs? You’re not alone. At Manly Moving, we know that one of the biggest concerns for homeowners is budgeting for a move — and understanding exactly what you’re paying for. In this complete 2025 guide, we’ll break down moving costs, explain what affects pricing, and show you how hiring the right movers (like Manly Moving) can actually save you money.
Average Moving Company Costs in 2025
How much does it cost to hire movers in 2025? The answer depends on several factors, but here are national averages you can expect:
| Type of Move | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Local Move (Under 100 Miles) | $500 – $2,500 |
| Long-Distance Move (100+ Miles) | $2,000 – $8,000+ |
| International Move | $4,000 – $15,000+ |
| Studio/1-Bedroom Move | $400 – $1,200 |
| 2-3 Bedroom Home Move | $1,200 – $5,000 |
| 4+ Bedroom Move | $2,000 – $10,000+ |
Important Tip:
Prices vary based on your location, season, and whether you choose full-service movers or basic transportation-only service.
What Determines Moving Costs?
1️⃣ Distance
- Local Moves are typically charged by the hour.
- Long-Distance Moves are priced based on weight, volume, and miles traveled.
2️⃣ Size of Your Move
The size of your home directly affects cost. More rooms = more boxes, furniture, and weight.
Average Moving Weight:
- Studio Apartment: ~2,000 lbs
- 2-Bedroom Home: ~5,000 lbs
- 4-Bedroom Home: 10,000–15,000 lbs
3️⃣ Time of Year
- Peak Season (May–September): Higher demand = higher prices.
- Off-Peak (October–April): You can often save 20–30%.
4️⃣ Labor and Crew Size
- Larger crews move you faster but cost more per hour.
- Difficult access (stairs, elevators, long carries) increases labor time.
5️⃣ Packing Services
- Full-service packing: $300 – $1,200+
- Packing supplies: $100 – $500 depending on home size.
6️⃣ Insurance & Valuation Coverage
- Basic coverage may not be enough.
- Full value protection typically costs ~1% of your declared item value.
Detailed Cost Breakdown Examples
Example 1: Local Move (2-Bedroom Apartment, 5 Hours)
- 3 movers @ $175/hour: $875
- Packing supplies: $200
- Truck fee: $150
- Insurance upgrade: $75
Total: $1,300
Example 2: Long-Distance Move (3-Bedroom Home, 1,000 Miles)
- 8,000 lbs @ $0.75/lb: $6,000
- Packing service: $800
- Materials: $300
- Fuel surcharge: $250
- Insurance: $300
- Additional handling: $200
Total: $7,850
Hidden Moving Fees to Watch Out For
| Extra Charge | Cost Range | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Stairs Fee | $50–$200 | Multiple flights of stairs |
| Long Carry Fee | $75–$200 | Long distance from truck to door |
| Elevator Fee | $50–$150 | Apartment moves |
| Heavy Item Fee | $100–$500 | Pianos, safes, pool tables |
| Storage | $100–$500/month | Temporary storage needs |
| Shuttle Fee | $200–$500 | Small truck required for tight access |
How to Save Money on Your Move
Proven money-saving moving tips:
- Declutter – Fewer items = lower weight and cost.
- Move Off-Peak – Schedule your move between October and April.
- Book Early – Lock in lower rates by reserving in advance.
- Pack Yourself – Save on packing labor.
- Use Free Boxes – Get free boxes from local stores or online groups.
- Compare Multiple Quotes – Get at least 3 estimates.
- Be Flexible – Mid-week, mid-month moves often cost less.
- Ask for Discounts – Seniors, military, students, and repeat customers often qualify.
Is Hiring Movers Worth It?
While a DIY move may seem cheaper at first glance, professional movers:
- Protect your belongings from damage
- Handle heavy lifting safely
- Save you valuable time
- Offer reliable scheduling
- Provide insurance coverage for peace of mind
In most cases, hiring movers like Manly Moving actually prevents costly mistakes, damage, and injuries — which saves you money long-term.
Why Hiring Manly Moving Will Actually Save You Money
At Manly Moving, we don’t believe in surprise charges or inflated fees. Here’s how we help you save money while delivering professional, stress-free service:
✅ Transparent Pricing:
We offer clear, upfront quotes with no hidden fees.
✅ Efficient Crews:
Our trained team works fast and carefully, reducing labor time — and your bill.
✅ Damage Prevention:
Our expert packing and handling reduces the risk of broken items, saving you hundreds (or thousands) in potential replacements.
✅ Free Moving Consultation:
We help you strategize your move to avoid unnecessary costs before moving day even arrives.
✅ Customized Packages:
We tailor services to fit your exact needs and budget — not a one-size-fits-all price.
✅ Competitive Rates:
Because we’re local, family-owned, and experienced, we can often beat the big national chains while providing more personalized service.
Ready to make your move easy and affordable?
👉 Contact Manly Moving today for a free, no-obligation quote.
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