How Much Do Movers Cost for Local Moves?

Moving into a new home is an exciting time, but also quite challenging. Changing your environment, sometimes school, job, or friends, can be tough on anyone, no matter how adaptable they are. And it all starts from the hassle of moving all your things elsewhere.

This article will discuss prices and other aspects of hiring a moving company for your local move. With this know-how, you will be able to choose the service that fits your needs best and avoid scams or overpriced movers.

What Is a Local Move?

Most moving companies refer to interstate moves as “local moves”. Some go by distance and define a local move as a one that’s less than 50 miles away. Even if your move does not exceed this limit, don’t expect a bargain just because of that. A move implies various costs and it will be calculated with several factors in mind, like volume, weight, or the time it takes to load, transport, and unload the cargo.

Rear view at kids playing with boxes on moving day, small brother and sister running holding belongings packing unpacking in new home, happy playful children having fun together enjoying relocation

Why Should I Hire Pros to Handle the Move?

Handling a move yourself, unless you have embraced minimalism and own very few things, can be stressful and even dangerous if you lack experience. In terms of efficiency and minimal risks for yourself and the cargo, hiring pros is the way to go.

You will be able to find affordable movers and be more relaxed knowing that your items are being handled by experienced workers. Moreover, by hiring professional movers you ensure that your belongings will arrive unharmed to your new home.

Should I Choose a Flat Rate or an Hourly Rate When Moving?

Choosing a flat rate or an hourly rate depends on which one gives you more value for money. Going for the cheaper version is not necessarily better, but hourly rates usually lead to a lower overall cost.

A flat rate is a fixed price that is based on the mover’s estimate. They include the number of hours they think it will take, the number of movers required, any necessary add-ons (like straps, belts, mattress bags, etc.), fuel, and other costs.

The mover’s hourly rate is more common in local moves, and more common in certain states. A flat rate would give you an advantage if you have a long move or if you own a lot of stuff, including voluminous items like pianos.

For simple moves on short distances, the hourly rate makes more sense. The disadvantage of the latter is that workers might linger in order to get more from you, or there could be unexpected situations like traffic jams, a couch that is hard to get out of the house, and so on.

What Is the Travel Fee of the Moving Company?

Even when paying an hourly rate, you might hear about the travel fee of the moving company. The travel fee is supposed to pay for the cost of getting to your place.

This is part of a few “hidden” costs that could increase the price above your expectations. Usually, the travel fee is rounded to an hour of work, so you pay the actual time the move takes, plus one.

Always ask the moving company about additional fees that may apply besides the cost of transport and the hourly rate of the movers. Additional fees might be: hoisting service for heavy, voluminous items, add-ons that are necessary for the transport, etc.

What Are the Average Fees for a Local Move?

Let’s get to the main question: how much will it cost you to move locally? Here are the average prices, depending on how big your house is:

• A three-bedroom local move typically costs between $600 and $1,000;
• The average hourly rate for local moves is $80-$100, but do remember additional fees like the travel fee.

These are obviously estimated prices since the average can vary a lot from state to state, or from one area to another. Heavily circulated areas will cost more, and the weather can also increase the prices if it makes the move more difficult and slower. Also, learn how much does it cost to move a pool table locally.

With these things in mind, browse your local moving companies and make sure to ask the right questions when you request a quote. Also, don’t rely on the fees calculated after only a phone or email conversation. The best estimate that can be given is after the contractor has seen the cargo he needs to carry.

Located in Elk Grove, California, the Three Movers moving company has many years of experience in the industry and can handle local moves like a breeze. Contact us for a free price estimate or if you have any other questions.