Moving Guides & Tips
Everything you need to know about planning your move, choosing the right movers, and avoiding common pitfalls.
Moving Cost Guide
Local moves typically cost $400-$1,500 for a 1-2 bedroom and $1,500-$3,500 for a 3-4 bedroom home. Most local movers charge $120-$200/hr for a 2-person crew. Long distance moves run $2,000-$8,000+ based on weight and distance. Summer months (May-September) and month-end dates are peak pricing — booking midweek or mid-month can save 10-20%. Always get at least 3 in-home or virtual estimates to compare accurately.
How to Choose Movers
Start by checking Google reviews (aim for 4.0+ stars with 50+ reviews). Verify they carry proper insurance ($1M+ liability) and ask for proof. Get written estimates — never accept verbal-only quotes. Red flags include demanding large cash deposits upfront, no physical address, and refusing in-home estimates. Ask about their claims process before signing. A reputable mover will happily answer all your questions and provide references.
Packing Tips
Start packing non-essentials 2-3 weeks before moving day. Use small boxes for heavy items (books, dishes) and large boxes for light items (linens, pillows). Wrap fragile items individually in packing paper — newspaper ink can stain. Label every box on the top AND sides with the room destination. Pack an essentials box last (toiletries, phone charger, change of clothes, snacks, important documents) and keep it with you, not on the truck.
Moving Checklist
8 weeks out: Get quotes, book movers, start decluttering. 4 weeks: Begin packing non-essentials, notify utilities of move date, update your address with banks and subscriptions. 2 weeks: Confirm movers, pack room by room, arrange parking permits if needed. 1 week: Pack remaining items, defrost freezer, prepare appliances. Moving day: Do a final walkthrough, check all closets/drawers, take meter readings, hand over keys.
DIY vs. Hiring Movers
A DIY move makes sense for studio/1-bedroom apartments with no stairs and a short distance. Rent a truck ($50-$150/day), recruit friends, and budget a full weekend. Hire movers when you have heavy furniture, multiple flights of stairs, valuable items, or a long-distance move. The hybrid approach works well: pack everything yourself, then hire a 2-person crew for the heavy lifting and transport. This cuts costs by 30-40%.
Moving Insurance & Protection
Standard mover liability covers only $0.60 per pound per item — a 50lb TV would net just $30. Full Value Protection (FVP) means the mover must repair, replace, or reimburse the current value of damaged items. It costs roughly 1% of your declared shipment value. Check if your homeowner's or renter's insurance covers items during a move. Document everything with dated photos before loading. File damage claims within 9 months of delivery.
Ready to find the right movers?
Browse our directory of moving companies near you.
Find a moving company near you →