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The average cost to hire movers is between $920 and $2,530 for local moves and $2,700 to $10,000 for long-distance moves. The number of movers you need, the total mileage you’re moving, your moving date, and ease of access to your home all factor into the bottom line. 

For example, if you only need one or two movers, you can expect to pay $25 to $50 an hour. However, if you need four or more movers, that charge increases to $100 to $200 an hour. Moving specialty items, like a piano or large aquarium, will incur additional charges.

If you’re hiring movers to help with your move, there are a few things that you can do ahead of time to set yourself (and the moving company) up for success.

• Donate or sell items ahead of time to lessen the amount to move

• Alert your neighbors (or apartment management) of the move so they can plan for the moving truck to arrive

• Pack your belongings securely ahead of your moving date

• Disconnect any appliances prior to the moving date

• Clear a path for the movers to move freely inside your home 

• Dispose of hazardous materials

• Discuss with your moving coordinator where to unload the boxes

In the world of professional moving, moves are broken up into two categories—a local move and a long-distance move. A local move is anything considered under 100 miles, regardless if you’re crossing over state lines. A long-distance move is anything over 100 miles, even if you stay in the same state or location.

Moving insurance helps protect your belongings from damage or loss during the moving process. This policy can help reimburse you either part of or the total amount of your belongings that become damaged during the moving process. Moving insurance has three main options: full value protection, released value protection, and third-party or separate liability coverage. Speak with your moving company to determine what is covered under each policy and their cost to determine the best fit for your needs. 

Before hiring a moving company to help you with your move, there are a few things you will want to ask, including: 

• Is there anything your company won’t move? 

• Does workers’ compensation cover the crew?

• Will you disassemble and reassemble the furniture? 

• Are there packing restrictions?

• Can you guarantee my delivery date?

• Can you provide references? 

• What do you charge extra for?

• What is your cancellation policy?

Hiring movers to help during a move can take a load off your shoulders, but you might still want to cut costs where possible. A few ways to help save money while hiring movers include:

• Moving during the off-season (typically from October through April) when rates tend to be lower

• Move during the week to avoid any weekend surcharges

• Seek out moving supplies from friends and family—they might have all the tools you need!

• Store boxes and bubble wrap for the next big move if you move frequently

• Use towels and clothes to wrap breakables

• Use suitcases to pack belongings

• Ask the moving company about special coupons or deals