Moving Cost Calculator

How to Use the Moving Cost Calculator

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This guide explains every input and output in the Moving Cost Calculator, the formulas used, and how to interpret the results. It also covers what national-average estimates can and cannot tell you.

What This Calculator Does

The calculator takes four inputs — home size, distance band, move month, and furnishing level — and outputs a low/typical/high cost estimate using nationally published industry averages. The formulas are shown directly on the page.

Two pricing models are used depending on distance:

  • Local moves (under 50 miles): hourly labor model (estimated hours × hourly crew rate × seasonal multiplier)
  • Regional and cross-country moves: weight + distance model ((weight × rate per pound + travel fee) × seasonal multiplier)

Both models reflect how professional movers actually structure their invoices — the calculator output matches what you will see on a real quote.

Input: Home Size

Select the size of the home you are moving out of. The size determines estimated labor hours (local moves) and estimated shipment weight (long-distance moves), based on the AMSA standard of 1,000–1,500 lbs per fully furnished room:

  • Studio: ~2,000 lbs baseline
  • 1-bedroom: ~2,500 lbs
  • 2-bedroom: ~5,000 lbs
  • 3-bedroom: ~8,000 lbs
  • 4+ bedroom: ~12,000 lbs

Input: Distance Band

  • Local (under 50 miles): Hourly billing. Most same-city moves fall here.
  • Regional (50–500 miles): Weight-based billing at $0.50–$0.70/lb + $500 travel fee.
  • Cross-country (500+ miles): Weight-based billing at $0.65–$0.85/lb + $1,200 travel fee. FMCSA regulations apply.

Input: Move Month

The calculator applies a 25% peak surcharge for June, July, and August (moveBuddha / SafeBound 2026 seasonal data). Off-peak months use a 1.0× multiplier. Your local market may have larger or smaller seasonal swings.

Input: Furnishing Level

  • Light: Minimal furniture. Multiplier: 0.75–0.80×
  • Average: Typical household. Multiplier: 1.0×
  • Full: Heavy furniture, large appliances, gym equipment. Multiplier: 1.25–1.35×

Reading the Results

  • Low estimate: Floor of rate range, below-average hours/weight. Achievable off-peak with an efficient crew.
  • Typical cost: Midpoint — the best single planning number.
  • High estimate: Ceiling of rate range with above-average complexity. Budget for this if you have heavy or specialty items.

What Is Not Included

  • Packing service: $300–$1,500
  • Specialty items: piano ($150–$500), gun safe ($150–$350), pool table ($250–$600)
  • Stair/elevator fees: $75–$150 per flight
  • Long-carry fees, storage-in-transit, and supplies
  • Crew tip (15–20% of labor is customary)

Add 10–20% to any estimate to budget for these items.

Data Sources

All figures are national averages as of June 2026. High-cost metros (New York, San Francisco, Boston) typically run 20–40% above these averages. Always get at least 3 binding quotes from FMCSA-licensed movers before committing.

FAQ

See the FAQ section on the home page for common questions about moving costs, FMCSA protections, and money-saving tips.